Whataburger, the beloved Texas-based fast food chain, has captured the hearts and taste buds of breakfast enthusiasts with its delicious taquitos. These handheld breakfast delights feature a soft flour tortilla wrapped around savory fillings, perfect for those seeking a quick and satisfying morning meal.
Whataburger’s taquitos come in various flavors, including sausage, egg, and cheese, as well as a spicy chorizo option. The combination of fluffy scrambled eggs, melted cheese, and flavorful meats creates a mouthwatering breakfast experience that keeps customers coming back for more. Available as part of a meal or as an add-on, these taquitos offer a convenient and tasty way to start the day.
For those who can’t make it to a Whataburger location, recreating these breakfast taquitos at home is possible with a few simple ingredients and steps. By cooking sausage or chorizo, scrambling eggs, and wrapping them in a warm tortilla with cheese, fans can enjoy a similar taste of Whataburger’s popular breakfast item in their own kitchens.
History of Whataburger Taquitos
Whataburger introduced taquitos to its menu in 1983. This addition came as part of a broader menu expansion that included other popular items like the Breakfast on a Bun and Whatachick’n sandwich.
Taquitos quickly became a beloved breakfast option for Whataburger customers. The tortilla-wrapped, filled breakfast item offered a convenient and tasty morning meal for those on the go.
Initially, Whataburger offered limited taquito flavors. Over time, the restaurant chain expanded its taquito options to cater to diverse taste preferences.
Whataburger’s taquitos gained popularity for their freshness and quality ingredients. The company maintained its commitment to using 100% fresh, never frozen ingredients in its taquitos.
As Whataburger expanded across the southern United States, taquitos became a staple breakfast item in many locations. Their popularity contributed to Whataburger’s growth and success in the fast-food breakfast market.
Today, Whataburger continues to serve taquitos as a key part of its breakfast menu. The item remains a favorite among loyal customers and newcomers alike.
The Whataburger Taquito Menu
Whataburger offers a variety of taquitos on their breakfast menu. These popular handheld items combine eggs, cheese, and various fillings wrapped in a warm flour tortilla.
Traditional Whataburger Taquito
The classic Whataburger Taquito comes with scrambled eggs and cheese as its base. Customers can choose from several protein options:
- Potato, Egg & Cheese Taquito
- Sausage & Egg Taquito
- Bacon & Egg Taquito
Prices for individual taquitos range from $2.54 to $3.99, depending on location and ingredients. Taquitos are also available as part of a Whatameal combo for around $6.29, which includes hash brown sticks and a drink.
Variations and Specials
Whataburger occasionally introduces limited-time taquito variations to keep the menu fresh. These may include:
- Jalapeno Cheese Taquito for added spice
- Chorizo Taquito for a Mexican-inspired flavor
The restaurant chain also offers a “Taquito with Cheese” option, allowing customers to customize their preferred filling. For those seeking a lighter option, egg white substitutions are available upon request.
Taquitos are served all day at most Whataburger locations, making them a popular choice for breakfast, lunch, or a late-night snack.
Nutritional Overview
Whataburger taquitos offer a substantial breakfast option with varying nutritional profiles. The calorie content and macronutrient composition differ based on the specific ingredients used in each variety.
Caloric Content
Whataburger taquitos range from 370 to 470 calories per serving. The cheese taquito contains 370 calories, while the sausage, egg, and cheese version has 450 calories. The potato, egg, and cheese taquito tops the list at 470 calories.
These calorie counts represent a significant portion of the recommended daily intake for many adults. To burn off the calories from a single taquito, one would need to engage in physical activity for 39-67 minutes, depending on the variety chosen.
Macronutrients
The macronutrient breakdown of Whataburger taquitos varies by type. Fat content is notably high, contributing 44-57% of the total calories. The sausage, egg, and cheese taquito contains 20 grams of fat, with 8 grams being saturated fat.
Carbohydrates make up a substantial portion of the nutritional content, with the cheese taquito containing 28 grams. Protein content is not explicitly stated for all varieties but is likely present in moderate amounts due to the egg and meat ingredients.
Dietary Considerations
Whataburger taquitos may pose challenges for those with specific dietary needs or weight management goals. The high fat and calorie content make them a less suitable option for low-fat or low-calorie diets.
For those following Weight Watchers programs, point values are not provided in the search results. However, given the calorie and fat content, these items would likely use a significant portion of daily point allowances.
Individuals with sodium or cholesterol concerns should be cautious, as these values are not specified but are typically high in similar fast food items.
Ingredients and Preparation
Whataburger taquitos blend simple ingredients into a satisfying breakfast meal. The key components include savory sausage, fluffy eggs, melted cheese, and a soft tortilla wrap. Preparation techniques and ingredient variations can customize this classic dish.
Core Ingredients
Whataburger taquitos typically feature breakfast sausage, scrambled eggs, and melted cheese wrapped in a soft flour tortilla. The sausage provides a hearty, flavorful base. Eggs are beaten and scrambled until fluffy. American cheese is often used for its melting properties and mild flavor.
A soft flour tortilla serves as the wrapper, holding all ingredients together. Some recipes include a dash of milk in the eggs for extra smoothness. Picante sauce or salsa is commonly served on the side for added zest.
Making the Perfect Taquito
To create an authentic Whataburger-style taquito, start by cooking the sausage until browned. Drain excess fat and set aside. In a separate pan, scramble the eggs until just set. Warm the flour tortillas to make them pliable.
Assemble by placing sausage, eggs, and cheese on one end of the tortilla. Roll tightly, tucking in the sides. Cook the assembled taquito seam-side down in a lightly buttered skillet until golden brown and crispy. This seals the edges and melts the cheese.
Serve immediately with salsa or picante sauce on the side. For added authenticity, wrap in foil to keep warm and maintain texture.
Vegetarian Variants
Vegetarian options can easily replicate the texture and flavor of traditional Whataburger taquitos. Replace sausage with plant-based alternatives or sautéed vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, and onions. Egg whites can be used for a lighter version, or substitute with scrambled tofu for a vegan option.
Cheese alternatives made from soy or nuts can provide the melty texture. Use whole wheat or corn tortillas for added fiber and nutrition. Add hash browns or diced potatoes for extra substance. Jalapeños or green chilies can be incorporated for a spicy kick.
Serve with sour cream, guacamole, or a vegetarian-friendly salsa to complete the meal. These variations maintain the spirit of the original while catering to different dietary preferences.
Sauces and Toppings
Whataburger taquitos pair well with a variety of sauces and toppings. These additions enhance the flavor and texture of the taquitos, offering customers a customizable dining experience.
Popular Choices
Whataburger Picante Sauce is a fan favorite for taquitos. This zesty sauce adds a tangy kick to complement the savory filling. Salsa is another popular option, providing a fresh and vibrant taste. Many customers enjoy topping their taquitos with sour cream for a cool, creamy contrast.
Cheese lovers often request melted cheese on top or as a dipping sauce. Whataburger’s cheese sauce is smooth and rich, perfect for drizzling or dipping. Some locations offer guacamole as a premium topping, adding a creamy texture and subtle avocado flavor.
Spice It Up
For those seeking extra heat, Jalapeño Poppers make an excellent side or topping. These crispy, cheese-filled peppers can be chopped and sprinkled over taquitos for added crunch and spice. Hot sauce enthusiasts might request extra picante sauce or bring their own preferred brand.
Some Whataburger locations offer a spicy ranch variation, combining creamy coolness with a peppery kick. Pico de gallo is occasionally available, providing a fresh, chunky salsa option with diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro.
Whataburger Taquito Recipes
Recreating Whataburger’s beloved taquitos at home is easier than you might think. With a few simple ingredients and techniques, you can enjoy these tasty breakfast treats anytime.
Homemade Taquito Recipe
Start by cooking breakfast sausage in a skillet over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, breaking it into small crumbles. In a separate bowl, whisk eggs and add them to the cooked sausage. Stir until the eggs are fully scrambled.
Warm flour tortillas in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to make them pliable. Spoon the sausage and egg mixture onto each tortilla, add shredded cheese, and roll tightly.
For a crispy exterior, lightly brush the taquitos with oil and bake at 400°F for 10-12 minutes. Alternatively, pan-fry them in a skillet with a small amount of oil until golden brown on all sides.
Creative Variations
Experiment with different fillings to create your own unique taquitos. Try using diced potatoes, bacon, or chorizo instead of sausage. For a vegetarian option, substitute the meat with black beans or roasted vegetables.
Add flavor with diced onions, bell peppers, or jalapeños. Enhance the taste with spices like cumin, paprika, or chili powder. For a creamier texture, mix in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese before rolling.
Serve your homemade taquitos with salsa, guacamole, or hot sauce for dipping. For a healthier twist, use whole wheat tortillas or bake instead of frying.