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Transforming leftover turkey into crispy taquitos turns simple ingredients into a fun and flavorful snack perfect for any occasion. These Crispy Leftover Turkey Taquitos deliver a satisfying crunch with a creamy, spicy filling that makes great use of what you have on hand.
I first made these taquitos after Thanksgiving and they became an instant favorite for game day snacks. The kids love helping roll them up and eating the crispy results.
Ingredients
- Leftover cooked turkey: finely chopped to ensure each bite is packed with meat
- Green onion: adds freshness and a subtle bite
- Cream cheese: for creaminess that binds the filling perfectly
- Sour cream: balances spices and adds tang
- Chili powder: brings authentic warmth and depth choose a quality blend if you can
- Cumin: adds earthiness essential to Mexican flavors
- Garlic powder: for a mellow garlicky undertone
- Salt: to enhance all the other flavors
- Sharp cheddar cheese: shredded for melty, sharp contrast
- Corn tortillas: softened for easy rolling and crisp frying
- Vegetable oil: sufficient for deep frying until golden
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Savor the Filling Mix:
- Combine the finely chopped turkey, green onion, cream cheese, sour cream, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Use a fork to mash and mix thoroughly until creamy and well blended. The uniform texture helps every taquito have consistent flavor.
- Warm the Tortillas:
- Arrange the corn tortillas on a plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave for about one minute on high until flexible but not soggy. This prevents cracking when you roll the taquitos.
- Fill and Roll:
- Place roughly two tablespoons of the turkey mixture in the center of each tortilla. Sprinkle some sharp cheddar over the filling. Roll the tortilla tightly to encase the filling completely, then secure each one with toothpicks to keep them from unrolling during frying.
- Heat and Fry:
- Pour vegetable oil into a skillet and heat until it reaches 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Carefully fry the taquitos in batches, turning every two to three minutes, until all sides are golden brown and crunchy. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil before serving.
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My favorite ingredient has to be the sharp cheddar cheese because it melts into pockets of gooey goodness inside the crispy shell. One holiday, making these brought the family together in a way that helped turn Thanksgiving leftovers into a festive gathering snack everyone looked forward to.
Storage Tips
Store leftover taquitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep them crispy, reheat in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 8 to 10 minutes rather than using the microwave. For longer storage, freeze cooked taquitos on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven for best results.
Ingredient Substitutions
- If you do not have leftover turkey, cooked chicken works just as well and keeps the same texture.
- You can use flour tortillas instead of corn if you prefer a softer bite, though they will be less crispy overall.
- For a dairy-free version, swap cream cheese and sour cream with vegan cream cheese and plant-based yogurt.
- Adjust the spice levels by adding more or less chili powder depending on your heat preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these taquitos with fresh salsa or creamy guacamole for extra flavor and color. A dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lime brightens up the rich filling nicely. Add a side of Mexican rice or black beans to turn this appetizer into a fuller meal.
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Cultural Context
Taquitos have roots in Mexican cuisine as rolled and fried small tortillas often filled with meat or cheese. Typically served as snacks or appetizers, they embody the flavorful simplicity of street food. Using leftovers in this way reflects a common practice in home kitchens bringing creativity to everyday ingredients.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I soften the corn tortillas for rolling?
Cover the tortillas with a damp paper towel and microwave for about 1 minute to make them pliable and easy to roll without cracking.
- → What oil is best for frying taquitos?
Vegetable oil is recommended for frying due to its high smoke point, which ensures a crispy exterior without burning.
- → Can I use other cheeses instead of sharp cheddar?
Yes, cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack work well, adding creaminess and flavor complementary to the spices.
- → How can I make the filling more flavorful?
Incorporate spices like chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder, and add finely chopped green onions to enhance aroma and taste.
- → What are good serving suggestions for these taquitos?
Serve them hot with sides like fresh salsa, guacamole, or a cool sour cream dip to balance the crispiness.