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Baked beef flautas with queso dip are an easy way to bring a little fiesta to your weeknight dinner. Crispy on the outside and flavorful inside these rolled tortillas stuffed with seasoned beef and cheese make a satisfying meal or appetizer. Pairing them with a creamy queso dip takes the dish to the next level.
I first made these when a friend brought them to a potluck and was hooked on the crisp bite and melty cheese combo. Now they are a staple at game day or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients
- One pound ground beef: for a hearty filling choose lean for less grease or higher fat for richer flavor
- Cumin: adds that warm earthy note so pick fresh cumin powder for the best flavor
- Chili powder: brings mild heat and smokiness opt for a good quality blend without fillers
- Garlic powder and onion powder: boost savory depth keep spices airtight to maintain freshness
- Small flour tortillas: are easier to roll and create just the right crisp texture choose fresh soft tortillas not dried out ones
- Shredded cheese: melts perfectly inside select a blend like cheddar or Monterey Jack for creaminess
- Olive oil: for brushing adds crispness and golden color use extra virgin for flavor and quality
- Sour cream: adds cool tang as a topping select full fat or light based on your preference
- Queso cheese sauce: complements the flautas creamy and smooth pick a good brand or homemade for freshness
Instructions
- Build The Beef Filling:
- Cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat breaking it apart as it cooks. When browned drain excess fat if needed. Add cumin chili powder garlic powder and onion powder then stir well to evenly coat the beef with spices.
- Roll The Flautas:
- Lay out each small tortilla flat. Spoon a generous amount of the beef mixture onto one side and sprinkle shredded cheese on top. Roll the tortilla tightly to enclose the filling preventing any gaps.
- Prepare For Baking:
- Lightly brush each rolled flauta with olive oil. This step is key for getting that golden crispy exterior without frying. Arrange the flautas seam side down on a baking sheet.
- Bake To Perfection:
- Place the baking sheet in a 400° Fahrenheit oven. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until the flautas are crisp and golden brown. Keep an eye so they don’t burn but get nicely toasted.
- Heat The Queso:
- While the flautas bake warm the queso cheese sauce gently on the stovetop stirring occasionally until smooth and hot.
- Serve:
- Plate the baked flautas and serve with warm queso dip alongside a dollop of sour cream. The contrast of warm crispy flautas with creamy dips is delightful.
My family always gathers around while I serve these making for cozy celebrations with simple comfort food.
Storage Tips
Store leftover flautas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in a toaster oven or conventional oven to restore crispiness avoid the microwave or they get soggy.
Ingredient Swaps
Use ground turkey or shredded chicken as a leaner filling option. Swap flour tortillas for corn tortillas if you want a more traditional texture and slightly different flavor. You can also add black beans or diced green chilies inside for additional layers of taste and nutrition.
Serving Ideas
Serve flautas with pico de gallo or guacamole for bright fresh contrast. A side of Mexican rice or a simple green salad completes the meal nicely. For extra flair sprinkle chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime before serving.
These baked beef flautas strike a perfect balance between crispy texture and creamy melty cheese for a family favorite you’ll make again and again.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → What type of tortillas work best for flautas?
Small flour tortillas are ideal for rolling tightly and baking to a crisp texture without cracking.
- → How can I ensure the beef filling is flavorful?
Season the ground beef with cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder while cooking to build a rich, well-balanced taste.
- → What is the best way to achieve crispy flautas?
Brush the rolled flautas lightly with olive oil before baking to encourage a golden, crunchy exterior.
- → How should I heat the queso cheese sauce?
Warm the queso sauce gently in a saucepan over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent separation.
- → Can I prepare flautas ahead of time?
You can assemble the flautas in advance and refrigerate them. Bake fresh before serving to maintain crispness.