Beef and Bean Tiny Tacos: A Deliciously Simple Recipe

Tiny tacos, also known as mini tacos or taquitos, are the perfect appetizer, snack, or even a fun, casual meal. This recipe for beef and bean tiny tacos is incredibly easy to make, customizable to your preferences, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a quick weeknight dinner, or simply craving a flavorful bite, these tiny tacos are the answer. We’ll walk you through each step with detailed instructions and helpful tips to ensure your tiny tacos are a culinary success. Get ready to experience a burst of savory goodness in every bite!

## Why You’ll Love This Recipe

* **Simple and Quick:** This recipe requires minimal ingredients and preparation time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
* **Customizable:** Easily adapt the recipe to your taste by using different types of beans, cheeses, or spices.
* **Crowd-Pleasing:** Tiny tacos are always a hit at parties, gatherings, or family dinners.
* **Budget-Friendly:** The ingredients are relatively inexpensive, making this a great option for those on a budget.
* **Versatile:** Serve them as appetizers, snacks, or a complete meal.
* **Freezer-Friendly:** You can easily make a large batch and freeze them for future enjoyment.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start cooking, gather the following ingredients:

* **Ground Beef:** 1 pound (lean ground beef is recommended)
* **Refried Beans:** 1 (16-ounce) can (pinto or black refried beans work well)
* **Taco Seasoning:** 1 packet (or homemade taco seasoning)
* **Water:** 1/4 cup
* **Corn Tortillas:** 24-36 (small, street-style tortillas are ideal)
* **Shredded Cheese:** 1 cup (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)
* **Cooking Oil:** For frying (vegetable, canola, or corn oil)
* **Optional Toppings:** Sour cream, salsa, guacamole, chopped cilantro, diced onions, shredded lettuce

## Equipment You’ll Need

* Large skillet
* Mixing bowl
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Tongs
* Paper towels
* Deep fryer or large pot (for frying)

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create perfect beef and bean tiny tacos:

### 1. Prepare the Beef Filling

* **Brown the Beef:** In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon or spatula. Cook until the beef is no longer pink.
* **Drain Excess Fat:** Carefully drain any excess fat from the skillet. This will help prevent the tacos from becoming greasy.
* **Add Taco Seasoning and Water:** Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the browned beef and pour in the water. Stir well to combine.
* **Simmer:** Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the liquid has evaporated and the beef is flavorful. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
* **Taste and Adjust:** Taste the beef mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more taco seasoning, salt, pepper, or a pinch of chili powder for extra heat.

### 2. Warm the Tortillas

Warming the tortillas makes them more pliable and prevents them from cracking when you roll them.

* **Microwave Method:** Stack the tortillas and wrap them in a damp paper towel. Microwave for 30-60 seconds, or until they are warm and flexible.
* **Oven Method:** Wrap the tortillas in foil and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes.
* **Skillet Method:** Warm each tortilla individually in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few seconds per side, until they are pliable.

### 3. Assemble the Tiny Tacos

* **Prepare Your Work Station:** Set up your work station with the warmed tortillas, beef filling, refried beans, and shredded cheese.
* **Spread the Beans:** Spread a thin layer of refried beans over each tortilla. This will help the beef filling stick to the tortilla and add moisture.
* **Add the Beef:** Spoon a small amount of the beef filling onto the bean layer. Don’t overfill the tortillas, or they will be difficult to roll.
* **Sprinkle with Cheese:** Sprinkle a pinch of shredded cheese over the beef filling. This will melt and create a cheesy, gooey center.
* **Roll the Tacos:** Tightly roll each tortilla into a small, cylindrical shape. Secure the roll with a toothpick, if needed, to prevent it from unrolling during frying. However, toothpicks are generally not needed if the tortillas are properly warmed and rolled tightly.

### 4. Fry the Tiny Tacos

* **Heat the Oil:** Pour enough cooking oil into a deep fryer or large pot to reach a depth of about 2 inches. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, test the oil by dropping a small piece of tortilla into it. If the tortilla sizzles and turns golden brown within a few seconds, the oil is ready.
* **Fry in Batches:** Carefully place the tiny tacos into the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the fryer. Overcrowding can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy tacos.
* **Fry Until Golden Brown:** Fry the tacos for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Turn them occasionally to ensure even cooking.
* **Remove and Drain:** Use tongs to remove the fried tacos from the oil and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
* **Repeat:** Repeat the frying process with the remaining tacos.

### 5. Serve and Enjoy

* **Arrange on a Platter:** Arrange the fried tiny tacos on a platter.
* **Add Toppings:** Serve with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, salsa, guacamole, chopped cilantro, and diced onions.
* **Serve Immediately:** For the best taste and texture, serve the tiny tacos immediately while they are still hot and crispy.

## Tips for Success

* **Use High-Quality Ingredients:** Using fresh, high-quality ingredients will result in the best-tasting tiny tacos.
* **Don’t Overfill the Tortillas:** Overfilling the tortillas can make them difficult to roll and fry properly.
* **Keep the Oil at the Right Temperature:** Maintaining the oil at the correct temperature is crucial for achieving crispy, golden-brown tacos. If the oil is too cold, the tacos will be soggy. If the oil is too hot, they will burn.
* **Drain Excess Oil:** Draining the tacos on paper towels will help remove excess oil and prevent them from becoming greasy.
* **Get Creative with Toppings:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings to create your own unique flavor combinations.

## Variations

* **Chicken Tiny Tacos:** Substitute the ground beef with shredded chicken.
* **Vegetarian Tiny Tacos:** Omit the beef and use a mixture of black beans, corn, and diced vegetables.
* **Spicy Tiny Tacos:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce to the beef filling.
* **Cheesy Tiny Tacos:** Use a blend of different cheeses, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, and pepper jack.
* **Baked Tiny Tacos:** For a healthier option, bake the tiny tacos instead of frying them. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the rolled tacos on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.

## Serving Suggestions

* **Appetizer:** Serve tiny tacos as an appetizer at parties, gatherings, or game nights.
* **Snack:** Enjoy them as a quick and satisfying snack any time of day.
* **Meal:** Pair them with a side salad, rice, or beans for a complete meal.
* **Party Food:** Set up a tiny taco bar with various fillings, toppings, and sauces for guests to customize their own tacos.

## Make-Ahead Instructions

You can prepare the beef filling and assemble the tiny tacos ahead of time.

* **Beef Filling:** The beef filling can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat it before assembling the tacos.
* **Assembled Tacos:** The assembled, un-fried tacos can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Fry them just before serving.

## Storage Instructions

* **Refrigerating:** Leftover fried tiny tacos can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
* **Freezing:** To freeze the tiny tacos, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours, or until they are solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer until crispy.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

(Per serving, assuming 6 tiny tacos)

* Calories: 350-450
* Protein: 20-25g
* Fat: 20-25g
* Carbohydrates: 25-30g
* Fiber: 5-7g

(Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.)

## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

* **Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?**
While corn tortillas are more traditional for tacos, you can use small flour tortillas if you prefer. Keep in mind that flour tortillas may be more prone to tearing, so be gentle when rolling them.
* **Can I bake these instead of frying them?**
Yes, baking is a healthier alternative to frying. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the rolled tacos on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. You may want to lightly brush the tacos with oil before baking to help them crisp up.
* **What if my tortillas keep cracking when I roll them?**
This usually means your tortillas aren’t warm enough. Make sure to warm them thoroughly using one of the methods described above (microwave, oven, or skillet).
* **Can I make these ahead of time?**
Yes, you can prepare the beef filling and assemble the tacos ahead of time. Store the filling in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and the assembled tacos (un-fried) for up to 24 hours.
* **What are some good toppings for tiny tacos?**
The possibilities are endless! Some popular toppings include sour cream, salsa, guacamole, chopped cilantro, diced onions, shredded lettuce, pico de gallo, and cheese sauce.
* **Can I use a different type of bean?**
Absolutely! Pinto beans, black beans, or even white beans would work well in this recipe. Choose your favorite or experiment with different combinations.

## Conclusion

These beef and bean tiny tacos are a delicious, versatile, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip up a batch in no time. Whether you’re serving them as appetizers, snacks, or a complete meal, these tiny tacos are sure to be a hit. So, gather your ingredients, follow our recipe, and get ready to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying bite-sized treat! Don’t forget to customize them with your favorite toppings and variations to create your own signature tiny taco recipe. Happy cooking!