Crispitos Recipe

The sound of that first bite cracking? That’s how I know my cirspitos turned out right!

I’ve found that using corn tortillas instead of flour gives them that extra crunch you don’t always get otherwise.

Letting the meat mixture cool before rolling is huge as it’s helps keep the crispitos from falling apart in the pan.

Adding shredded cheese directly into the meat before filling helps it stay gooey inside instead of oozing out.

A little sour cream and salsa on the side goes a long way without needing anything too fancy.

These come together quickly once you prep the filling, and they’re fun to make in big batches!

How to Make Crispitos

Ingredients

• 1 lb Ground Beef
• 1 Onion (chopped)
• 1 Clove Garlic (minced)
• 1 Packet Taco Seasoning
• 1 Quart Vegetable Oil (divided)
• 8 Tortillas
• 2 cups Queso
• 1 can Chicken (12.5 oz, drained)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Cook the beef with onions and garlic until the meat is browned and the onions are soft.

Season the mixture using a taco seasoning packet.

Step 2:

In a separate bowl, mix the queso with the drained chicken.

Blend these until well combined.

Step 3:

Lay one tortilla flat on a clean surface.

Spoon a small portion of the beef mixture and chicken queso mix onto the center.

Step 4:

Roll up each tortilla tightly with the filling inside.

Secure ends with a toothpick.

Step 5:

Heat the vegetable oil in a deep saucepan until it’s sizzling hot.

Fry each filled tortilla until golden and crispy, which should take about 2-3 minutes per side.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Use Fresh Tortillas

Fresh tortillas will roll more easily and fry more crisply, giving better results.

Consider slightly warming them first if needed.

Customize the Filling

You can substitute the beef with your favorite protein, like ground turkey or beans, for different variations.

Control Cheese Meltiness

To achieve the perfect meltiness, try shredding some cheese to add to the queso mix, creating a cheesy blend.

Mindful Frying

Keep an eye on the oil temperature for even frying and avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure crisp perfection for each piece.

Safe Toothpick Removal

After frying, let the crispitos cool slightly before gently removing the toothpicks to maintain their shape and prevent burns.

What to Serve with Crispitos

Classic Toppings

When it comes to Crispitos, I always recommend starting with some classic accompaniments.

Salsa, guacamole, and sour cream are excellent choices.

These toppings add a burst of flavor that perfectly complements the seasoned beef and cheese filling.

Fresh Salad

If you’re looking for something light and refreshing, try serving Crispitos with a simple green salad.

A mix of crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy cucumbers can provide a nice contrast to the rich Crispitos.

Mexican Rice

Another traditional side dish that pairs well with Crispitos is Mexican rice.

The mildly spiced rice can balance out the bold flavors of the Crispitos. Yum!

Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Looking for something a bit unusual and exciting?

Roasted sweet potatoes can be a wonderful side dish.

The natural sweetness of the potatoes goes so well with the savory taste of Crispitos, creating a beautiful balance.

Black Bean and Corn Salad

For a burst of color and flavor, consider a black bean and corn salad as a side.

The combination of hearty beans, sweet corn, and tangy lime dressing brings an interesting twist to your Crispitos meal.

Creamy Coleslaw

A creamy coleslaw might sound unexpected, but it can be a great match with Crispitos.

The crunchy cabbage and tangy dressing create a refreshing bite that perfectly complements the rich filling in the Crispitos.

Variations and Substitutions

Meat Alternatives

You can easily swap out the ground beef for chicken, turkey, or even tofu if you’re aiming for a vegetarian option.

Black beans, corn, and diced bell peppers also work great to enhance the flavor of your crispitos.

Tortilla Choices

Consider using thin tortillas, but feel free to experiment with puff pastry if you’re feeling adventurous.

Puff pastry creates a unique, flaky texture that’s quite different from the traditional method.

Spicing It Up

Adjust the heat to your liking by adding more chili powder or sliced jalapeños for a spicier kick.

A pinch of smoked paprika adds a nice depth of flavor to the filling.

Dairy-Free Options

If you’re avoiding dairy, use a plant-based queso or sour cream alternative.

These items keep the crispitos delicious without sacrificing too much of the creamy topping vibe.

Creative Add-Ins

Try throwing in some cooked rice, chopped spinach, or even a handful of olives for something different.

Each of these additions gives the crispitos an extra burst of flavor that might just become a new favorite.

How to Store Leftover Crispitos

Keeping your leftover crispitos fresh is key to enjoying them later!

I recommend storing them in an airtight container to maintain their flavor and texture.

Make sure the crispitos cool to room temperature before sealing the container to avoid moisture buildup.

Refrigeration

If you’re planning to eat them within a few days, your refrigerator is the best option.

Store the crispitos in a single layer to keep them from sticking together.

You want maximum flavor when you dig in again!

Freezing

For longer storage, freezing is a great option.

Place the crispitos on a baking sheet and freeze them for about an hour.

After they’re frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for safekeeping.

Portioning

Consider dividing the crispitos into meal-sized portions before storing.

This way, you can easily grab just what you need without thawing everything.

This simple step can make your life a little easier later on!

Remember, leftover crispitos can be delicious if you store them right!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using the Wrong Type of Wrapper

You might be tempted to use any wrapper you have on hand, but that’s a pitfall.

Stick to thin tortillas or egg roll skins to achieve that perfect crisp.

Thicker wrappers won’t yield the desired texture and can make the dish feel heavy.

Neglecting Proper Frying Technique

Whether you’re frying in oil or using an air fryer, consistent temperature is key.

Inconsistent heat results in soggy crispitos, so keep an eye on that thermometer.

Flipping them too often can cause them to absorb excess oil and lose their crispy nature.

Overstuffing the Crispitos

Adding too much filling can be tempting, but it leads to a mess.

The crispitos may burst open while cooking, leaving you with a much less appetizing result.

Use a moderate amount of filling to keep everything neat and tasty!