Keto Beef Taquitos with Cheese Taco Shells: A Low‑Carb Fiesta
Savory ground beef seasoned with Mexican spices is wrapped in crispy, baked cheese shells for a crunchy, low‑carb taquito that’s ready in 30 minutes. Perfect for keto dinners or party appetizers.
Equipment
- 6‑cup donut or mini taco shell pan (or baking sheet + shaping tool)
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk and rubber spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cookie scoop or piping bag
- Microwave‑safe bowl
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
Beef Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp avocado oil
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Optional: ¼ cup diced bell peppers or jalapeños
Cheese Taco Shells:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack
- Optional: pinch chili powder or cumin
Garnishes (optional):
- Diced avocado or guacamole
- Sour cream or keto crema
- Fresh cilantro or green onions
- Lime wedges
Instructions
Prep & Cook Beef (10 min):
- Heat avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté onion & garlic 2–3 min until fragrant.
- Add ground beef; cook 5–7 min until browned, breaking into pieces.
- Stir in spices (cumin, chili powder, paprika, garlic/onion powders), salt, pepper (and optional peppers). Simmer 3–5 min. Drain excess fat if needed.
Bake Cheese Shells (7 min):
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.
- Place 2–3 Tbsp cheese in 4‑5″ circles; sprinkle spices if desired.
- Bake 5–7 min until edges turn golden.
Shape Shells (within 15 sec):
- Immediately lift circles and drape over a rolling pin handle or wooden spoon to form shells. Let set 1–2 min.
Assemble Taquitos (2 min):
- Spoon ~2 Tbsp beef filling into each shell. Avoid overfilling.
Garnish & Serve:
- Top with avocado, sour cream, cilantro, and lime. Enjoy immediately for best crunch.
Notes
Nutrition (Per Taquito)
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Total Fat: 17 g
- Total Carbs: 3 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Net Carbs: 2 g
- Protein: 14 g