Air Fryer Breakfast Taquitos: Quick, Easy & Delicious Recipe

Air fryer breakfast taquitos are about to revolutionize your mornings! Imagine waking up to crispy, golden-brown taquitos filled with fluffy scrambled eggs, savory sausage, and melted cheese – all ready in under 20 minutes. Forget the drive-through; this is breakfast bliss at your fingertips.

While the exact origins of the taquito are debated, its roots are firmly planted in Mexican cuisine. The word “taquito” translates to “little taco,” and these rolled, fried tortillas have been a beloved snack and meal for generations. Traditionally deep-fried, we’re giving this classic a modern, healthier twist with the magic of the air fryer.

What makes air fryer breakfast taquitos so irresistible? It’s the perfect combination of textures and flavors. The crispy tortilla gives way to a warm, comforting filling that’s both satisfying and delicious. Plus, they’re incredibly convenient! Whether you’re a busy parent, a student on the go, or simply craving a quick and tasty breakfast, these taquitos are a game-changer. They’re also easily customizable – swap out the sausage for bacon, add some veggies, or spice things up with a dash of hot sauce. Get ready to experience breakfast in a whole new way!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound breakfast sausage (I prefer Jimmy Dean regular)
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (any color)
• 8 large eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 10-12 small flour tortillas (6-inch size)
• Cooking spray
• Optional toppings: salsa, sour cream, guacamole

Preparing the Filling:

Okay, let’s get started with the heart of our taquitos – the delicious filling! This is where we build all the flavor, so take your time and don’t rush the process. I promise, it’s worth it!

1. Brown the Sausage: First, grab a large skillet and place it over medium heat. Add the breakfast sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. You want to cook the sausage until it’s completely browned and no longer pink. Make sure to crumble it well so you don’t end up with large chunks in your taquitos. Nobody wants a mouthful of just sausage!
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Once the sausage is browned, drain off any excess grease. This is important because too much grease will make your taquitos soggy. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet with the sausage. Cook them until they’re softened, about 5-7 minutes. The onions should be translucent and the bell peppers should be slightly tender. This step adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the filling.
3. Scramble the Eggs: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined. Pour the egg mixture into the skillet with the sausage and vegetables. Cook, stirring constantly, until the eggs are set but still slightly moist. You don’t want to overcook them, or they’ll become rubbery. Remember, they’ll continue to cook in the air fryer.
4. Add the Cheese: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese. Mix well until the cheese is melted and evenly distributed throughout the filling. The cheese adds a creamy, cheesy goodness that really brings everything together. I like to use a combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack, but you can use any cheese you like. Pepper jack would add a nice kick!
5. Taste and Adjust: Now’s the time to taste the filling and adjust the seasonings if needed. Does it need a little more salt? A pinch of pepper? Trust your taste buds! This is your chance to make the filling perfect for your liking.

Assembling the Taquitos:

Now comes the fun part – rolling up those taquitos! This is where we transform our delicious filling into easy-to-eat, air fryer-ready snacks.

1. Warm the Tortillas: This is a crucial step! Warm the flour tortillas in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few seconds per side. Warming them makes them more pliable and less likely to crack when you roll them. Trust me, you don’t want cracked tortillas!
2. Fill the Tortillas: Lay a warm tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the sausage and egg filling onto the center of the tortilla. Don’t overfill them, or they’ll be difficult to roll and may burst open during cooking.
3. Roll the Taquitos: Fold in the sides of the tortilla slightly, then tightly roll it up from the bottom. Secure the roll with a toothpick if needed. I usually find that if I roll them tightly enough, the toothpick isn’t necessary.
4. Repeat: Repeat steps 2 and 3 with the remaining tortillas and filling.

Air Frying the Taquitos:

Alright, we’re in the home stretch! The air fryer is going to work its magic and transform our rolled taquitos into crispy, golden-brown perfection.

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the taquitos cook evenly and get nice and crispy.
2. Prepare the Air Fryer Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. This prevents the taquitos from sticking and helps them to brown evenly.
3. Arrange the Taquitos: Place the taquitos in the air fryer basket in a single layer, seam-side down. Don’t overcrowd the basket, or the taquitos won’t get crispy. You may need to cook them in batches.
4. Air Fry: Air fry for 8-10 minutes, or until the taquitos are golden brown and crispy, flipping them halfway through. Keep a close eye on them, as air fryers can vary in cooking time. You want them to be perfectly crispy, but not burnt!
5. Remove and Cool: Carefully remove the taquitos from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving. This will prevent you from burning your mouth on the hot filling.

Serving Suggestions:

Now that your air fryer breakfast taquitos are ready, it’s time to enjoy them! Here are a few serving suggestions to take them to the next level:

• Salsa: Serve with your favorite salsa for a zesty kick. I love using a mild or medium salsa so it doesn’t overpower the other flavors.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a creamy coolness that complements the savory filling.
• Guacamole: Guacamole is always a good idea! The creamy avocado adds a richness and healthy fats to your breakfast.
• Hot Sauce: If you like a little heat, drizzle some hot sauce over your taquitos.
• Cheese Dip: Warm cheese dip is a decadent and delicious option for dipping your taquitos.

Tips and Tricks:

Here are a few extra tips and tricks to help you make the best air fryer breakfast taquitos ever!

• Make Ahead: You can assemble the taquitos ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time when you’re ready to air fry them.
• Freezing: These taquitos freeze beautifully! Assemble them, then freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to eat them, air fry them from frozen for about 12-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
• Customize the Filling: Feel free to customize the filling to your liking. Add black beans, corn, or diced tomatoes for extra flavor and texture. You can also use different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or Colby Jack.
• Use Different Tortillas: While I prefer small flour tortillas, you can also use corn tortillas if you prefer. Just be aware that corn tortillas are more prone to cracking, so be extra careful when rolling them.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: Overcrowding the air fryer will prevent the taquitos from getting crispy. Cook them in batches if necessary.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Air fryers can vary in cooking time, so keep a close eye on your taquitos and adjust the cooking time as needed.

Variations:

Want to switch things up? Here are a few fun variations on the classic air fryer breakfast taquitos:

• Spicy Taquitos: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the filling for a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian Taquitos: Omit the sausage and add extra vegetables, such as black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes.
• Sweet Potato Taquitos: Add some roasted sweet potato to the filling for a touch of sweetness and extra nutrients.
• Chorizo Taquitos: Substitute the breakfast sausage with chorizo for a bolder, spicier flavor.
• Bacon Taquitos: Use cooked and crumbled bacon instead of sausage. Who doesn’t love bacon?

Conclusion:

So, there you have it! These air fryer breakfast taquitos are truly a game-changer for busy mornings, lazy brunches, or even a quick and satisfying dinner. I genuinely believe this recipe is a must-try because it combines the convenience of the air fryer with the deliciousness of a classic Mexican-inspired breakfast. Think crispy, golden tortillas embracing a warm, flavorful filling – what’s not to love?

But beyond the sheer deliciousness, these taquitos are incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with the filling to suit your own tastes and dietary needs. Not a fan of sausage? Swap it out for chorizo, bacon, or even shredded chicken. Vegetarian? Load them up with black beans, corn, and extra veggies like bell peppers and onions. The possibilities are endless!

And speaking of serving suggestions, these taquitos are fantastic on their own, but they’re even better with a few accompaniments. I personally love dipping mine in salsa verde or a dollop of sour cream. Guacamole is another excellent choice, adding a creamy, cool contrast to the crispy taquitos. For a spicier kick, try a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. You could even create a whole breakfast spread with sides like refried beans, Mexican rice, and a fresh fruit salad.

For a fun variation, consider making mini taquitos using smaller tortillas. These are perfect for parties or as appetizers. You could also try different types of cheese in the filling, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a sprinkle of cotija cheese on top after air frying. Another idea is to add a layer of scrambled eggs to the filling for an extra protein boost.

The beauty of this recipe is that it’s so adaptable. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different flavors and ingredients. I encourage you to make it your own and discover your favorite combination.

I’m confident that once you try these air fryer breakfast taquitos, they’ll become a regular part of your meal rotation. They’re quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying – the perfect combination for a busy lifestyle. Plus, they’re a great way to use up leftover ingredients and reduce food waste.

Now, it’s your turn! I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the deliciousness for yourself. Once you’ve made them, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. I’d love to hear what variations you tried, what your family thought, and any tips or tricks you discovered along the way. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create recipes that you’ll love.

So, grab your ingredients, fire up your air fryer, and get ready to enjoy the best breakfast taquitos you’ve ever had! Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear from you! Don’t forget to snap a picture of your creations and tag me on social media – I love seeing your culinary masterpieces! Let me know if you have any questions, and I’ll do my best to answer them. Enjoy!