The Taquito with Cheese from Whataburger features a warm, crispy flour tortilla filled with melted cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, delivering a savory, gooey bite that's both satisfying and flavorful.
Equipments
- Grill or griddle
- Cheese grater
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Spatula
- Food warmer
- Tongs
- Storage containers
- Serving tray
- Oven or microwave (optional)
Ingredients
- 1 large flour tortilla
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 4 (8-inch) flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
The combination of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses is essential for achieving the authentic, gooey texture and rich flavor that defines the Taquito with Cheese from Whataburger. Using fresh, high-quality cheeses will enhance the taste and melt consistency. Your choice of large or 8-inch flour tortillas affects the size and crispiness of the taquito, so pick based on your preferred serving portion. Keep tortillas at room temperature before assembling to prevent cracking while rolling. For replicating the Taquito with Cheese from Whataburger copycat menu, maintaining the proper cheese ratio and tortilla size is key to delivering the same satisfying, flavorful experience.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat grill or griddle to medium heat.
- Place a flour tortilla on the cutting board.
- Evenly sprinkle shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses onto the tortilla.
- Roll the tortilla tightly around the cheese to form a taquito.
- Repeat steps 2–4 for remaining tortillas.
- Place taquitos seam side down on the grill or griddle.
- Cook until the tortilla is golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 2–3 minutes per side, using tongs to turn.
- Remove taquitos and keep warm in a food warmer or oven (optional).
- Serve hot on a serving tray.
Substitution
For a homemade Taquito with Cheese inspired by Whataburger, you can easily substitute shredded cheeses with any melty cheese blend you prefer, such as Colby Jack or mozzarella, to suit your taste or availability. If flour tortillas are not on hand, corn tortillas can be used, though they may require slightly different cooking times to achieve crispiness. When reheating, an oven or microwave will work, but using a griddle or grill helps maintain the desired crispy texture. You might also experiment with adding a light spread of butter or oil to the tortillas before cooking to enhance browning and flavor. Storing leftover Taquitos in airtight containers ensures they stay fresh for your next meal or snack.
Tips
When rolling your taquitos, ensure the cheese is evenly distributed to prevent uneven melting or leakage during cooking. Use tongs carefully when flipping to maintain the shape and crispness of the tortilla. Preheating your grill or griddle properly to medium heat is crucial for achieving the golden-brown exterior without burning. Keeping your taquitos warm in a food warmer or oven will preserve their texture and gooey cheese until you're ready to serve.
Nutritions
The Taquito with Cheese from Whataburger provides a rich source of calcium and protein, thanks to the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses packed inside each crispy flour tortilla. Each serving contains approximately 250-300 calories, primarily from fats and carbohydrates, contributing to a satisfying energy boost. You can enjoy this savory snack while being mindful of its moderate sodium content, which supports flavor but should be balanced within your daily intake. This combination of ingredients makes it a convenient option for a flavorful, fulfilling bite.
Storage
Store your Taquitos with Cheese in airtight containers to maintain their crispiness and prevent moisture buildup. Refrigerate the taquitos if you plan to consume them within 2-3 days, and reheat using an oven or air fryer to restore the crispy texture. Avoid microwaving directly as it can make the tortilla soggy and reduce the overall quality.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses with pepper jack or Colby cheese for a spicier or milder flavor profile. Instead of grilling, try baking the taquitos in a preheated oven at 400degF for 12-15 minutes to achieve a crispier texture. Consider adding finely chopped jalapenos or cooked bacon bits inside the tortilla before rolling for an extra burst of flavor. Using corn tortillas in place of flour tortillas offers a traditional variation with a slightly different texture and taste.
Allergies
The Taquito with Cheese from Whataburger contains wheat-based flour tortillas and dairy from cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, which are common allergens that may affect individuals with gluten intolerance or lactose intolerance. Your consumption could trigger allergic reactions such as digestive discomfort, hives, or respiratory issues if you have sensitivities to gluten or dairy proteins. It's important to check ingredient labels and consult with a healthcare provider if you have known food allergies before enjoying this menu item.
Why this recipe?
Taquito with Cheese from Whataburger combines crispy, golden tortillas stuffed with seasoned beef and melted cheese, creating a savory and satisfying flavor profile. This menu item delivers a perfect balance of crunchy texture and gooey cheese, making it a popular choice for both snacks and quick meals. Recreating the copycat recipe allows you to enjoy this iconic comfort food anytime, using fresh ingredients tailored to your taste preferences. Your homemade version can capture the authentic taste while offering the convenience and customization you desire.