These crispy Air Fryer Taquitos are packed with protein, flavor, and are a healthier (but just as tasty) version of a comforting classic!

If you’re like me and love easy, delicious, healthier meals that take less than 30 minutes then you’ll have to give this a try! One thing I love most about this recipe is that it can be customized with whatever sounds good. This specific recipe below calls for beans and taco meat but easily make it vegan/vegetarian/plant-based by leaving out the meat and adding another plant protein source and keeping the beans.

This has been a lunch on repeat for me lately, and I think once you try you’ll know why 👏

See my full video tutorial HERE.

healthier air fried taquitos are rolled on a small white plate and served with small dishes of salsa and greek yogurt. the taquitos are golden, crispy and topped with shredded cheese, salsa, green jalapenos, and look ready to eat

What You’ll Need To Make These Amazing Taquitos:

Taco meat – can use grass-fed beef, turkey, chicken, or make it vegetarian/vegan by swapping for veggies.
Tortillas – any kind that you like!
Refried beans
Toppings of choice – I love using shredded cheese, lettuce, tomato, salsa, and greek yogurt (in place of sour cream)!

How to Make:

Start by cooking your preferred taco meat. Keep things simple by cooking grass-fed beef with taco seasoning (I love Siete) and salt. Feel free to switch up the protein by using turkey, chicken, or keep this entirely vegetarian/vegan by using mixed vegetables! If using mixed vegetables, I recommend bell peppers and onion but I’ve heard jackfruit is a great meaty alternative too.

Warm up each side of your tortillas by placing them directly over the burner on your stovetop or in a pan. We just want them warm enough so they’re easier to roll without breaking!

Once the tortillas are warm, add a layer of refried beans and taco meat (or veg) to each. Gently roll them up. If you find that they’re having a hard time staying rolled, stick a toothpick through the middle.

Lightly spray your air fryer (or baking sheet if using your oven) with oil. Place the taquitos in a single layer and bake at 400 F for 10-12 minutes or until they’re golden brown and crispy. If you want more flavor and crispiness, after placing the taquitos in the air fryer (or sheet) lightly spray them again with oil.

Once they’re done, add to a plate and pile on the toppings! I LOVE adding shredded cheese, salsa, lettuce, tomatoes, jalapeños, and having greek yogurt on the side in place of sour cream. Feel free to get creative and do whatever sounds good!