How to Make Sweet Potato and Black Bean Taquitos: A Crispy & Flavorful Meal

Craving a crispy, flavorful, and wholesome meal? These sweet potato and black bean taquitos are the perfect combination of creamy mashed sweet potatoes, protein-packed black beans, and warm spices, all wrapped in a crunchy tortilla. Whether baked or air-fried, these taquitos make for an easy, vegetarian-friendly meal that’s packed with flavor and nutrients.

Sweet potato and black bean taquitos are crispy, flavorful, and packed with nutrients. These baked or air-fried taquitos are a delicious alternative to traditional meat-filled versions, making them a healthy and satisfying meal or snack. They’re vegetarian, easy to make, and perfect for meal prep.

Pair them with salsa, guacamole, or a drizzle of chipotle sauce, and you have a meal that’s crunchy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and bursting with bold flavors.

In this recipe, we’ll guide you through how to make sweet potato and black bean taquitos step by step, including tips for the perfect crispiness, seasoning variations, and dipping sauce ideas. Whether you’re serving them for lunch, dinner, or as a tasty snack, these taquitos will be a hit. Let’s get cooking!

1. Ingredients for Sweet Potato and Black Bean Taquitos

Main Ingredients

• Two medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• One can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• One teaspoon olive oil
• One teaspoon cumin
• One teaspoon smoked paprika
• Half teaspoon chili powder
• Half teaspoon garlic powder
• Quarter teaspoon salt
• Quarter teaspoon black pepper
• Half cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or vegan cheese)
• Eight small corn tortillas

Optional Toppings & Dips

• Guacamole
• Salsa or pico de gallo
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Fresh cilantro
• Crumbled cotija or feta cheese
• Lime wedges

2. Preparing the Sweet Potato and Black Bean Filling

Step 1: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

1. Heat a pot of water and bring it to a boil.
2. Add the diced sweet potatoes and cook for 10-12 minutes until tender.
3. Drain and mash with a fork until smooth.

Step 2: Season the Filling

1. In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, black beans, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Stir well until fully mixed.
3. Fold in the shredded cheese.

3. Assembling the Taquitos

Step 1: Warm the Tortillas

1. Heat the tortillas in a dry pan for 10-15 seconds per side or microwave them covered with a damp towel for 20 seconds.
2. This prevents them from cracking when rolling.

Step 2: Fill and Roll the Taquitos

1. Spoon 2 tablespoons of the filling onto one side of each tortilla.
2. Roll tightly and place seam-side down on a baking sheet.

4. Cooking Methods for Taquitos

Oven-Baked Method

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Brush or spray the taquitos lightly with olive oil.
3. Bake for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.

Air Fryer Method

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange the taquitos in a single layer and spray lightly with oil.
3. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

5. Serving Suggestions

These crispy, cheesy, and flavorful taquitos pair well with:

Best Dipping Sauces

• Guacamole
• Salsa verde or pico de gallo
• Chipotle mayo
• Queso dip

Side Dishes to Serve with Taquitos

• Cilantro lime rice
• Refried black beans
• Fresh corn salad
• A simple green salad with avocado

6. Storage and Reheating Tips

How to Store Leftover Taquitos

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months.

How to Reheat Taquitos

• Oven: Bake at 375°F for 7-10 minutes until crispy.
• Air Fryer: Heat at 350°F for 5 minutes.
• Avoid microwaving, as it makes them soft.

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FAQs

FAQs

1. Can I make these taquitos ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the taquitos ahead of time and store them uncooked in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking or air frying.

2. Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Use certified gluten-free corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas. Make sure they are warmed before rolling to prevent cracking.

3. How do I keep the tortillas from cracking when rolling?

Warm the tortillas before assembling by heating them in a dry pan for 10-15 seconds per side or wrapping them in a damp towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.

4. Can I add extra protein to these taquitos?

Absolutely! You can mix in shredded chicken, ground turkey, crumbled tofu, or even quinoa for added protein.

5. Can I make these vegan?

Yes! Simply omit the cheese or use dairy-free cheese. The filling is already plant-based, making it easy to keep these vegan.

6. What’s the best way to freeze these taquitos?

Freeze the uncooked taquitos on a baking sheet for an hour, then transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag. They will keep for up to 2 months. Bake straight from frozen at 400°F for 12-15 minutes.

7. Can I fry these instead of baking?

Yes! Heat about 1 inch of oil in a pan over medium heat and fry each taquito for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Drain on a paper towel.

8. What’s the best cheese to use?

A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack works best for meltiness and flavor. You can also use pepper jack for a spicier kick.

9. How can I make these spicier?

• Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling.
• Use spicy salsa, hot sauce, or chipotle mayo as a dip.
• Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes into the mixture before rolling.

10. Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?

Yes, but fresh sweet potatoes give better flavor and texture. If using canned, drain well and mash before mixing with black beans.