Step-by-step instructions
- Begin by cooking the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until it’s nicely browned. Remember to drain any excess grease to keep it from becoming too oily.
- Add the ranch seasoning mix, allowing it to incorporate fully, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes for maximum flavor.
- Once seasoned, remove the skillet from the heat and let the beef cool slightly.
- In a deep fryer or large pot, preheat the cooking oil to 350°F.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef, crumbled bacon, cheddar cheese, diced tomatoes, red onion, pickles, and ranch dressing. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Scoop a spoonful of the beef mixture onto a small flour tortilla, roll it up tightly, and secure it with a toothpick.
- Fry the taquitos in batches for 2-3 minutes or until they’re golden brown and crispy.
- Once cooked, place the taquitos on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- Serve the taquitos warm alongside additional ranch dressing for dipping. Enjoy!
Best ways to enjoy it
When serving your Loaded Ranch Bacon Cheeseburger Taquitos, get creative! A sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of extra ranch dressing can elevate the dish. Pair these taquitos with fresh guacamole, salsa, or a crisp side salad for a well-rounded meal. They also make fantastic finger food for game day—your guests won’t be able to get enough!
Keeping leftovers fresh
If you happen to have any taquitos left over (though I doubt it!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to a month. When ready to enjoy, you can reheat them in the oven or air fryer to regain that crispiness. Always ensure you handle food safely, keeping refrigerated items at the right temperature.
Helpful cooking tips
- For extra crispy taquitos, make sure the oil is hot before frying.
- Don’t overfill the tortillas; a little goes a long way to secure a tight roll!
- If you want a spicy kick, try adding jalapeños to the filling or serve them with a spicy dipping sauce.
Creative twists
Feel free to make these taquitos your own! Consider using different kinds of cheese, like pepper jack for added heat or even feta for a Greek take. You can also swap out the ranch dressing for a spicy chipotle sauce for a bold flavor change. Vegetarians can easily replace the ground beef with a hearty mixture of black beans and quinoa for a satisfying option.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare these taquitos?
Preparation and cooking take around 30-40 minutes total, making them a great option for a weeknight meal.
Can I make these taquitos ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling ahead, fill the tortillas, and refrigerate them until you’re ready to fry. Just remember to bring them to room temperature before frying.
Are there any dietary swaps I can make?
Yes. You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, and for a dairy-free version, substitute nutritional yeast for cheese and use dairy-free ranch dressing.
These Loaded Ranch Bacon Cheeseburger Taquitos are not only delicious but also a fun way to bring the family together in the kitchen. Give them a try—I guarantee they’ll become a beloved favorite in your house!
