Can I Cook Frozen Taquitos in an Air Fryer Here Is How

Yes, you can cook frozen taquitos in an air fryer for a quick, crispy, and healthier alternative to deep frying. Simply preheat the air fryer to 400°F, arrange the taquitos in a single layer, and cook for 8–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and heated through. No thawing or oil spraying is needed—just serve with your favorite dips for a perfect snack or meal!

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can cook frozen taquitos in an air fryer—no thawing needed for crispy results.
• Preheat the air fryer to ensure even cooking and a golden crust.
• Arrange taquitos in a single layer with space for optimal air circulation.
• Cook at 375°F for 8–12 minutes, flipping halfway for uniform crispness.
• Check internal temperature—ensure it reaches 165°F for food safety.
• Use minimal oil spray for extra crunch without sogginess.

Can I Cook Frozen Taquitos in an Air Fryer? Here Is How

Let’s face it—frozen taquitos are the ultimate convenience food. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student surviving on late-night snacks, or just someone who loves crispy, cheesy, meaty bites of joy, taquitos have a special place in our freezers. But here’s the million-dollar question: Can I cook frozen taquitos in an air fryer? The short answer? Absolutely—and you’ll probably never go back to the oven or microwave again.

I remember the first time I tried this. I had a craving for taquitos after a long day, and the oven was already full with a casserole. My microwave taquitos always came out soggy on the outside and lukewarm in the middle. But I’d just bought an air fryer, and curiosity got the best of me. I tossed in a few frozen taquitos, set the timer, and waited. Ten minutes later, I pulled out golden, crunchy, evenly cooked taquitos that tasted like they’d been deep-fried—without the mess or guilt. That moment changed everything. If you’ve ever wondered whether your air fryer could be your new taquito sidekick, you’re in the right place.

Why the Air Fryer Is a Game-Changer for Frozen Taquitos

How Air Frying Works—The Science Made Simple

Air fryers don’t actually fry. Instead, they use rapid hot air circulation to cook food from all sides. This mimics the crispy texture of deep-frying but with little to no oil. The heating element warms the air, and a powerful fan blasts it around your food in a compact chamber. For frozen taquitos, this means the exterior gets crisp while the inside heats evenly—no more cold centers or burnt edges.

Unlike microwaves, which heat food using water molecules (leading to soggy tortillas), or conventional ovens, which take longer and heat unevenly, the air fryer delivers consistent results in less time. It’s like giving your taquitos a spa day—quick, hot, and refreshingly crisp.

Benefits of Air Frying vs. Other Methods

• Speed: Air fryers cook frozen taquitos in 10–15 minutes, while ovens often take 20–25.
• Crispiness: The air circulation ensures a golden, crunchy shell without oil.
• Even Cooking: No need to rotate or flip halfway through (though a quick shake helps).
• Less Mess: No greasy splatter or preheating a large oven.
• Energy Efficiency: Air fryers use less electricity than ovens, making them eco-friendly and wallet-friendly.

My friend Sarah, who runs a small food blog, tested the same brand of frozen taquitos using three methods: microwave, oven, and air fryer. Her verdict? “The air fryer won by a landslide. The texture was restaurant-quality, and my kitchen didn’t smell like a fast-food joint afterward.”

Step-by-Step Guide: Cooking Frozen Taquitos in an Air Fryer

Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer (Optional but Helpful)

While many air fryers don’t require preheating, doing so (3–5 minutes at 375°F/190°C) ensures even cooking from the start. Think of it like warming up before a workout—it gets the machine ready to perform.

Tip: If you’re in a rush, skip preheating. Your taquitos will still cook well, but they might take an extra minute or two.

Step 2: Arrange the Taquitos Properly

Place the frozen taquitos in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd—leave about a 0.5-inch gap between each one. Why? Air needs to circulate freely to crisp the tortillas evenly. If you stack them, the ones on top will burn while the bottom ones stay soggy.

Practical Example: In my 5.8-quart air fryer, I can fit 6–8 taquitos comfortably. For a larger batch, cook in two rounds. Trust me, it’s worth the wait.

Step 3: Set Temperature and Time

Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes. This is the sweet spot for most frozen taquitos. But here’s the catch: not all brands cook the same. Some thinner taquitos (like veggie-based ones) may need only 8–10 minutes, while thicker meat-filled ones might need 12–14.

Pro Tip: Start with 10 minutes. At the 8-minute mark, open the basket and check the color. If the tortillas are browning but the center feels cold, add 2 more minutes. If they’re already golden, pull them out.

Step 4: Shake or Flip Midway (For Extra Crispiness)

After 5–6 minutes, pause the air fryer, open the basket, and give it a gentle shake. This redistributes hot air and prevents sticking. If your taquitos are long and prone to tipping, you can carefully flip them using tongs—but a shake usually does the trick.

Why This Works: Shaking ensures the bottoms don’t steam from residual moisture, which can make them soggy. It’s a small step that makes a big difference.

Step 5: Check for Doneness and Rest

Taquitos are done when the tortilla is golden brown and crisp, and the filling is hot (165°F/74°C internally). Use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure. Let them rest for 1–2 minutes after cooking—this lets the filling settle and prevents a molten cheese explosion (yes, that’s a real thing).

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Taquitos Every Time

Choosing the Right Brand of Frozen Taquitos

Not all frozen taquitos are created equal. Here’s what to look for:

• Size: Standard taquitos (6–7 inches) cook best. Mini or jumbo sizes may need time adjustments.
• Filling Density: Meat-heavy taquitos (like beef or chicken) need more time than veggie or cheese-only ones.
• Tortilla Type: Corn tortillas crisp better in air fryers than flour, but both work.

My Go-To Brands: I’ve tried Jose Ole, El Monterey, and 365 by Whole Foods. All cook well, but El Monterey’s chicken taquitos get extra crispy—almost like they’re fried.

Oil Spray: To Use or Not to Use?

Some people swear by a light spray of cooking oil (avocado, olive, or canola). It enhances browning and adds a subtle crunch. But is it necessary? Not really. Most frozen taquitos already have oil in the tortilla or filling. If you want a restaurant-level crunch, a quick spray helps—but it’s optional.

Tip: Hold the spray 6 inches away from the taquitos to avoid pooling oil at the bottom.

Seasoning for Extra Flavor

Frozen taquitos are tasty, but they can be bland. Boost the flavor with a post-cooking sprinkle of:

• Smoked paprika
• Garlic powder
• Cumin
• Chili flakes
• Fresh lime zest

My secret? A dash of Everything Bagel Seasoning. It adds a savory, crunchy punch that pairs perfectly with the cheesy filling.

Dealing with Common Issues

• Soggy Bottoms: Caused by overcrowding or not shaking midway. Fix: Space them out and shake at 5 minutes.
• Burnt Edges: Your air fryer runs hot. Lower the temp to 360°F or reduce time by 1–2 minutes.
• Cold Centers: Increase time by 1–2 minutes, but don’t exceed 14 minutes to avoid drying out.
• Sticking to Basket: Lightly spray the basket with oil or use parchment paper with holes (to allow airflow).

Air Fryer Settings for Different Taquito Types

Standard Meat Taquitos (Beef, Chicken, Pork)

Temperature: 375°F (190°C)
Time: 10–12 minutes
Shake: Yes, at 5–6 minutes
Oil: Optional (light spray for extra crispness)

Veggie or Cheese Taquitos

Temperature: 360°F (182°C)
Time: 8–10 minutes
Shake: Yes
Oil: Recommended (veggie fillings dry out faster)

Mini Taquitos or Bites

Temperature: 375°F (190°C)
Time: 7–9 minutes
Shake: Yes (more frequently, every 3 minutes)
Oil: Optional

Extra-Large or Stuffed Taquitos

Temperature: 375°F (190°C)
Time: 12–14 minutes
Shake: Yes, at 6 and 10 minutes
Oil: Light spray recommended

Taquito Type	Temperature	Time (Minutes)	Shake?	Oil?
Standard Meat	375°F (190°C)	10–12	Yes	Optional
Veggie/Cheese	360°F (182°C)	8–10	Yes	Recommended
Mini/Bites	375°F (190°C)	7–9	Yes (every 3 min)	Optional
Extra-Large	375°F (190°C)	12–14	Yes (twice)	Recommended

Special Considerations for Dietary Preferences

Gluten-Free: Most corn tortilla taquitos are naturally gluten-free. Double-check labels for fillings (some use flour-based binders).

Vegetarian/Vegan: Brands like Sweet Earth and MorningStar Farms offer plant-based options. Cook at 360°F to prevent drying.

Low-Carb: Look for taquitos made with almond or coconut flour tortillas. Adjust time as needed.

Creative Serving Ideas to Elevate Your Taquitos

Classic Dips and Sauces

Frozen taquitos are delicious on their own, but dips take them to the next level. Try:

• Guacamole (fresh or store-bought)
• Sour cream with lime juice
• Salsa verde or pico de gallo
• Queso cheese dip (warm it up for extra gooeyness)
• Chipotle aioli (mix mayo, chipotle peppers, and lime)

My Favorite Combo: Taquitos + guacamole + pickled red onions. The tangy onions cut through the richness perfectly.

Taquito Bowls (For a Healthier Twist)

Break up 2–3 air-fried taquitos and add them to a bowl with:

• Mixed greens
• Black beans
• Corn
• Diced avocado
• Cilantro
• Lime vinaigrette

It’s a quick, balanced meal that feels gourmet.

Taquito Nachos or Sliders

For game day or a party:

• Arrange taquitos on a platter and top with nacho cheese, jalapeños, and olives.
• Slice taquitos in half and serve as mini sliders on small buns with guac and salsa.

My nephew’s birthday party last year featured “Taquito Bar” with 5 dip options and 3 taquito types. It was a hit—no leftovers!

Freezing and Reheating Leftovers

Got extra taquitos? Freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, air fry at 375°F for 5–7 minutes—no thawing needed. They’ll be just as crispy as the first batch.

Final Thoughts: Why Air-Fried Taquitos Are Worth It

So, can I cook frozen taquitos in an air fryer? Yes—and you should. The air fryer transforms a humble freezer staple into a crispy, golden, evenly cooked snack that rivals restaurant quality. It’s faster, cleaner, and more energy-efficient than other methods. Plus, it unlocks creative possibilities, from taquito bowls to nacho bars.

But here’s the real win: the air fryer gives you control. No more guessing if your taquitos are done. No more soggy disappointments. Just reliable, delicious results every time. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal-prepping for the week, or just craving a quick bite, the air fryer is your taquito’s best friend.

Next time you reach for that bag of frozen taquitos, skip the oven and microwave. Fire up your air fryer, set it to 375°F, and let the magic happen. Your taste buds (and your schedule) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I cook frozen taquitos in an air fryer without thawing them first?

Yes, you can cook frozen taquitos in an air fryer directly from frozen—no thawing needed! Just adjust the cooking time by adding 2-3 minutes to ensure they heat through evenly.

What temperature should I use to cook frozen taquitos in an air fryer?

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for best results. This temperature crisps the tortilla perfectly while fully heating the filling without drying it out.

How long do frozen taquitos take to cook in an air fryer?

Frozen taquitos typically take 8-12 minutes in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C). Flip them halfway through for even browning and crispiness.

Do I need to use oil when cooking frozen taquitos in an air fryer?

Most frozen taquitos are pre-cooked and lightly oiled, so additional oil isn’t necessary. However, a light spray can enhance crispiness if desired.

Can I cook different brands of frozen taquitos in an air fryer?

Yes, nearly all brands of frozen taquitos work well in an air fryer. Follow the same guidelines, but adjust time slightly based on thickness or package instructions.

How do I prevent frozen taquitos from sticking to the air fryer basket?

Lightly spray the basket with non-stick cooking spray or use parchment paper liners. Avoid overcrowding to ensure airflow and even cooking.