Air fryer taco sticks – crispy, savory snacks made with tortillas and fillings.

Air Fryer Taco Sticks: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Snack

Air fryer taco sticks bring a fun twist to traditional tacos by transforming them into crispy, handheld treats. Perfect for a quick lunch, a satisfying dinner, or a crowd-pleasing snack at gatherings, these taco sticks are easy to make and oh-so-delicious. The combination of seasoned ground beef, gooey cheese, and zesty salsa encased in warm tortillas creates a mouthwatering experience in every bite.

Recipe Information

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

  • Calories per serving: 380
  • Protein: 22g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 500mg

Why Make This Air Fryer Taco Sticks

Making air fryer taco sticks is not just about convenience; it’s about flavor too! The air fryer creates a crispy exterior while keeping the filling juicy, providing a delightful texture that’s hard to resist. With minimal oil used, these taco sticks are a healthier option compared to classic deep-fried versions. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile. You can tailor the ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs, making it a win-win for everyone at the table.

How to Make Air Fryer Taco Sticks

Follow these simple steps to create tasty air fryer taco sticks that your family and friends will love.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 taco seasoning packet
  • 1 cup shredded cheese
  • 1 cup salsa
  • 8 flour tortillas
  • Cooking spray

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

In a skillet, cook 1 lb of ground beef over medium heat until browned. Be sure to drain the fat for a healthier option.

Step 2: Mixing

Stir in 1 taco seasoning packet and mix well. Add in 1 cup of salsa and 1 cup of shredded cheese, then remove the skillet from heat to keep the mixture melty and flavorful.

Step 3: Filling

Take a flour tortilla and place a generous spoonful of the beef mixture in the center. Roll it up tightly to ensure the filling stays inside.

Step 4: Cooking

Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the taco sticks seam side down in a single layer for even cooking. Spray the tops of the taco sticks with more cooking spray. Cook in the air fryer at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.

How to Serve Air Fryer Taco Sticks

Serve these delicious taco sticks with additional salsa for dipping. You can also offer sides like guacamole, sour cream, or chopped fresh cilantro for an added touch. They make excellent appetizers at parties or a fun meal on a busy weekday.

How to Store Air Fryer Taco Sticks

You can store leftover taco sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.

Expert Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Taco Sticks

  • Tortilla Knowledge: Use fresh, soft tortillas for better rolling; store-bought or homemade tortillas work well.
  • Beef Substitutes: Feel free to use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meats as a healthier or vegetarian option.
  • Cheese Variety: Experiment with cheeses such as pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for extra cheesiness.
  • Seal It Right: Ensure the seam of the tortilla is tightly rolled to prevent the filling from leaking during cooking.

Delicious Variations

  • Vegetable Taco Sticks: Replace the ground beef with a mix of black beans, corn, and bell peppers for a vegetarian delight.
  • Spicy Taco Sticks: Add jalapeños to the beef mixture or use spicy salsa to crank up the heat.
  • Breakfast Taco Sticks: Substitute the beef with scrambled eggs, cheese, and salsa for a delightful breakfast version.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
    Yes, corn tortillas can be used! Just be mindful that they may tear more easily when rolling.

  • How do I prevent the taco sticks from getting soggy?
    Make sure to drain any excess liquid from your salsa and avoid overfilling the tortillas.

  • Can I freeze these taco sticks?
    Absolutely! You can freeze unassembled taco sticks. Just ensure they’re well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. Cook directly from frozen; you may need to adjust the cooking time.

  • What dipping sauces go well with taco sticks?
    They pair nicely with salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or even a chipotle mayo for a creamy, spicy twist.

  • How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
    Simply replace the flour tortillas with gluten-free tortillas and ensure your seasoning packets are gluten-free as well.

Conclusion

Air fryer taco sticks are an easy and delightful dish that everyone will enjoy. The wonderful combination of flavors and textures is sure to please both kids and adults alike. With their crispy exterior and savory filling, these taco sticks make for a fantastic meal or snack. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the deliciousness that follows! Happy cooking!

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Air Fryer Taco Sticks


  • Author: hannah-belssy
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: None

Description

Air fryer taco sticks bring a fun twist to traditional tacos by transforming them into crispy, handheld treats filled with seasoned ground beef, gooey cheese, and zesty salsa.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 taco seasoning packet
  • 1 cup shredded cheese
  • 1 cup salsa
  • 8 flour tortillas
  • Cooking spray

Instructions

  1. In a skillet, cook 1 lb of ground beef over medium heat until browned, draining the fat.
  2. Stir in 1 taco seasoning packet and mix well. Add 1 cup of salsa and 1 cup of shredded cheese, then remove from heat.
  3. Place a generous spoonful of the beef mixture in the center of a flour tortilla and roll it up tightly.
  4. Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray, place the taco sticks seam side down, spray the tops again, and cook at 400°F for 8-10 minutes until golden brown.

Notes

Serve with additional salsa for dipping and offer sides like guacamole, sour cream, or chopped cilantro. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 380
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

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Hannah Belssy

Pro Chef & Bloger

Hi, I’m Hannah, the enthusiastic home chef behind Taste Quick! I’m convinced that incredible food can be both simple and quick to prepare. At Taste Quick, I share my beloved recipes that unite families at mealtime

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