Air Fried Shrimp Taquitos: Crispy, Delicious & Easy Recipe

Air Fried Shrimp Taquitos: Get ready to experience a flavor explosion that’s both incredibly delicious and surprisingly easy to make! Forget greasy, deep-fried versions – we’re taking this classic Mexican favorite to a whole new level of crispy perfection with the magic of air frying. Imagine biting into a perfectly golden, crunchy tortilla, revealing a succulent and flavorful shrimp filling that will have you craving more.

Taquitos, also known as rolled tacos, have a rich history rooted in Mexican cuisine. While their exact origins are debated, they’ve become a beloved staple, enjoyed at family gatherings, festive celebrations, and casual meals alike. Traditionally, they are deep-fried, but our lighter, healthier twist doesn’t sacrifice any of the satisfying crunch or savory goodness.

What makes these Air Fried Shrimp Taquitos so irresistible? It’s the perfect combination of textures and tastes. The crispy tortilla provides a delightful contrast to the tender, juicy shrimp, while the flavorful filling, seasoned with aromatic spices, creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Plus, air frying makes them incredibly convenient – a quick and easy weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s ready in minutes. I promise, once you try this recipe, you’ll never go back to the deep-fried version again!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Shrimp Filling:
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional, for heat)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Taquitos:
• 12-15 corn tortillas (6-inch size)
• Cooking spray (olive oil or avocado oil)
• Optional Toppings:
• Sour cream or Mexican crema
• Guacamole or avocado slices
• Salsa (your favorite kind!)
• Shredded lettuce
• Diced tomatoes
• Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)
• Pickled onions

Preparing the Shrimp Filling:

1. Prepare the Shrimp: If your shrimp are frozen, make sure they are fully thawed. Pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely in the pan.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and jalapeño (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
3. Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side, depending on the size of your shrimp. Don’t overcook them, or they’ll become rubbery.
4. Season the Shrimp: Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) over the shrimp. Stir to coat evenly. Cook for another minute, allowing the spices to bloom and release their flavors.
5. Finish the Filling: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the chopped cilantro and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the shrimp mixture cool slightly before assembling the taquitos. This will prevent the tortillas from getting soggy.
6. Chop the Shrimp (Optional): If you prefer a finer filling, you can roughly chop the shrimp after it has cooled slightly. This will make it easier to roll the taquitos.

Assembling the Taquitos:

1. Warm the Tortillas: This is a crucial step! Corn tortillas are prone to cracking if they’re not warmed up first. There are several ways to warm them:
   • Microwave: Wrap a stack of tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30-60 seconds, or until pliable.
   • Skillet: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Warm each tortilla for about 15-20 seconds per side, until softened.
   • Oven: Wrap a stack of tortillas in foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.

   Keep the warmed tortillas covered with a clean kitchen towel to prevent them from drying out.

2. Fill the Tortillas: Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the shrimp filling in the center of each warmed tortilla. Don’t overfill them, or they’ll be difficult to roll and may burst open during cooking.
3. Roll the Taquitos: Tightly roll each tortilla around the filling, starting from one end and tucking it in as you go. Secure the taquito with a toothpick if needed. This will help prevent them from unrolling during air frying. I usually find that if I roll them tightly enough, toothpicks aren’t necessary.

Air Frying the Taquitos:

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes. This helps ensure even cooking and crispy taquitos.
2. Prepare the Taquitos for Air Frying: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. This will prevent the taquitos from sticking. Arrange the taquitos in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. You may need to cook them in batches.
3. Air Fry the Taquitos: 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.
4. Remove and Cool: Carefully remove the taquitos from the air fryer and place them on a wire rack to cool slightly. This will help them stay crispy. If you used toothpicks, remove them before serving.

Serving and Enjoying:

1. Plate and Garnish: Arrange the air-fried shrimp taquitos on a serving platter.
2. Add Toppings: Top with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream or Mexican crema, guacamole or avocado slices, salsa, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and pickled onions. Get creative and customize them to your liking!
3. Serve Immediately: Serve the taquitos immediately while they are still warm and crispy. They are best enjoyed fresh!

Tips and Variations:

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the shrimp filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Assemble the taquitos just before air frying.
• Baking Option: If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the taquitos in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the assembled taquitos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray them lightly with cooking spray. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, flipping them halfway through.
• Cheese Addition: Add a sprinkle of shredded cheese to the shrimp filling before rolling the taquitos for an extra cheesy flavor.
• Spicy Kick: For a spicier filling, add more jalapeño or cayenne pepper to the shrimp mixture. You can also use a spicier chili powder.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the shrimp with black beans, corn, and diced vegetables for a vegetarian version.
• Different Tortillas: While corn tortillas are traditional for taquitos, you can also use flour tortillas if you prefer. Flour tortillas are more pliable and may be easier to roll.
• Dipping Sauces: Serve the taquitos with a variety of dipping sauces, such as salsa verde, queso dip, or a creamy cilantro-lime sauce.
• Freezing Instructions: You can freeze assembled taquitos before air frying. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for 1-2 hours, or until solid. Transfer them to a freezer bag or container and store for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, air fry them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

• Calories: Approximately 250-300 per serving (3 taquitos)
• Fat: 12-15 grams
• Protein: 15-20 grams
• Carbohydrates: 20-25 grams

Why Air Frying is Great:

Air frying offers a healthier alternative to deep frying, as it uses significantly less oil while still achieving a crispy and delicious result. It’s also a quicker and more convenient cooking method than baking. Plus, cleanup is a breeze!

Serving Suggestions:

These air-fried shrimp taquitos are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or light meal. Serve them with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans for a complete and satisfying dinner. They’re also great for parties and gatherings!

Conclusion:

So there you have it! These Air Fried Shrimp Taquitos are truly a game-changer. They’re quick, easy, and deliver that satisfying crunch and flavorful filling we all crave, without the guilt of deep-frying. Honestly, what’s not to love? I’ve made these countless times, and they’re always a hit, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer for a get-together.

But why are these a must-try? Beyond the sheer deliciousness, it’s the versatility that really seals the deal. You’re getting a protein-packed, flavorful meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. That’s a win in my book! Plus, the air fryer makes them incredibly crispy without all the extra oil, making them a healthier alternative to traditional fried taquitos. You can feel good about indulging in these!

Now, let’s talk serving suggestions and variations because the possibilities are endless! I personally love serving these with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, and a generous drizzle of my homemade avocado crema (recipe coming soon!). A side of fresh salsa or a spicy chipotle mayo also complements the shrimp perfectly. For a complete meal, consider pairing them with a simple Mexican rice or a refreshing corn and black bean salad.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can easily customize the filling to your liking. Try adding some diced jalapeños for a kick, or swap out the Monterey Jack cheese for a spicier pepper jack. You could even add some cooked black beans or corn to the shrimp mixture for extra texture and flavor. For a vegetarian option, you could easily substitute the shrimp with seasoned black beans or sweet potatoes. The key is to experiment and find what you love!

Another fun variation is to use different types of tortillas. While I typically use corn tortillas for that authentic taquito flavor, flour tortillas work just as well, especially if you prefer a softer texture. Just be sure to warm them up slightly before rolling to prevent them from cracking.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with your toppings, too! A sprinkle of cotija cheese, a drizzle of hot sauce, or even a scoop of guacamole would be fantastic additions. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s so adaptable to your personal preferences.

I truly believe that these Air Fried Shrimp Taquitos will become a staple in your kitchen. They’re perfect for busy weeknights, game day gatherings, or even a fun weekend snack. They’re so easy to make, and the results are always delicious.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, fire up your air fryer, and get ready to enjoy the most amazing shrimp taquitos you’ve ever tasted! I’m confident that you’ll love them as much as I do.

And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you try the recipe? Did you make any variations? What toppings did you use? Share your photos and comments with me – I can’t wait to see your creations! Tag me in your posts and let me know what you think. Happy cooking! I am excited to see your version of this Air Fried Shrimp Taquitos recipe.