Introduction
Tex-Mex cuisine offers a fusion of flavors that tantalize the taste buds, and one dish that perfectly embodies this is Baked Beef Flautas with Queso Dip. Crispy, golden-brown flautas filled with savory ground beef, paired with a creamy, cheesy queso dip, create a satisfying meal or appetizer that’s sure to please a crowd. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful dish step by step.
Ingredients
For Flautas:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 small flour tortillas
- Cooking spray
For Queso Dip:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup diced green chilies
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
For Flautas:
- Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Cook Beef Mixture: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and onions are translucent.
- Seasoning: Stir in ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Assemble Flautas: Spoon the beef mixture onto the center of each flour tortilla. Roll them tightly and place them seam side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Baking: Lightly spray the tops of the flautas with cooking spray to help achieve a crispy texture. Bake them in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy.
For Queso Dip:
- Prepare Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it turns golden brown.
- Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture becomes smooth and thickened.
- Cheese Mixture: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until they are melted and the mixture is creamy.
- Add Flavor: Stir in the diced tomatoes and diced green chilies. Season the queso dip with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving and Nutrition Information
Serving Information:
- Servings: 6 servings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Nutrition Information (per serving):
- Calories: 410 kcal
Incorporating these delicious baked beef flautas with queso dip into your meal rotation is a fantastic idea. Not only are they incredibly flavorful and satisfying, but they’re also relatively easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family.
FAQs
- 1. Can I make these flautas ahead of time?
- Absolutely! You can assemble the flautas ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to cover them tightly to prevent them from drying out.
- 2. Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
- While traditionally flautas are made with corn tortillas, you can certainly use them in this recipe if you prefer. Just keep in mind that corn tortillas may be a bit more delicate, so handle them carefully when rolling.
- 3. Can I freeze leftover flautas?
- Yes, you can freeze leftover flautas for later enjoyment. Simply allow them to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven until heated through.
- 4. Can I customize the queso dip with additional ingredients?
- Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with the queso dip by adding ingredients like diced jalapeños, cooked crumbled bacon, or chopped cilantro for extra flavor and flair.
- 5. How can I make this dish spicier?
- If you prefer a spicier kick, you can increase the amount of chili powder in the beef mixture or add extra diced jalapeños to the queso dip. Adjust the spice level to suit your taste preferences.
Conclusion
Baked Beef Flautas with Queso Dip offer a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will leave you craving more. Whether served as a main dish or appetizer, these crispy flautas paired with creamy queso dip are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Give this recipe a try and treat your taste buds to a Tex-Mex delight!
