Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Mexican Tortilla Roll Ups are not only easy to make but also customizable to suit your preferences. They offer a perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and savory flavors wrapped in soft tortillas, making them a delightful bite-sized treat. Whether you’re making them for a party, as an after-school snack, or as an appetizer for dinner, they are guaranteed to please everyone. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, so you can prepare them in advance for hassle-free entertaining.
Ingredients
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4 large flour tortillas
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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1/2 cup sour cream
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1 packet taco seasoning mix (or homemade seasoning)
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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1/2 cup diced bell pepper (any color)
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1/2 cup diced red onion
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1/2 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
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1/2 cup cooked and shredded chicken or beef (optional)
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1/2 cup black beans (optional, for a vegetarian version)
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1 tbsp lime juice (optional)
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Salt and pepper to taste
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, taco seasoning, and lime juice (if using). Mix until smooth and well combined.
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Add the shredded cheddar cheese, diced bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro (if using) to the cream cheese mixture. Stir until everything is evenly incorporated.
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If you’re using chicken, beef, or black beans, mix them into the creamy filling for added protein and flavor.
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Lay the flour tortillas flat on a clean surface. Spread an even layer of the cream cheese mixture over each tortilla, making sure to cover it completely, leaving a small border around the edges.
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Roll up each tortilla tightly, starting from one edge and rolling toward the other, making sure the filling stays inside.
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Slice the rolled tortillas into 1-inch thick pinwheels using a sharp knife.
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Arrange the tortilla roll ups on a serving platter and garnish with additional cilantro or a squeeze of lime, if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4-6
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Total time: 20 minutes
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Active time: 20 minutes
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Chilling time: 30 minutes (optional, for better flavor)
Variations
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Add Protein: For added protein, you can include shredded cooked chicken, beef, or turkey in the filling mixture.
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Vegetarian Option: Use black beans, corn, and avocado instead of meat for a vegetarian-friendly version.
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Spicy Tortilla Roll Ups: Add chopped jalapeños, hot sauce, or diced green chilies to the filling for an extra kick.
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Cheese Variation: You can swap out cheddar cheese for other varieties like Monterey Jack, Mexican blend, or pepper jack for a different flavor.
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Low-Carb Option: Use low-carb tortillas or lettuce wraps instead of flour tortillas for a lighter version of the roll ups.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store any leftover tortilla roll ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: These roll ups are best served cold or at room temperature, so no reheating is necessary. If desired, let them sit out for a few minutes before serving for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I make these roll ups ahead of time?
Yes, Mexican Tortilla Roll Ups can be made ahead of time. Once prepared, cover them tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to meld together for even better taste.
Can I freeze these tortilla roll ups?
While it’s best to serve them fresh, you can freeze the uncut roll ups. Wrap them in plastic wrap and foil, and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Let them thaw in the fridge overnight before slicing and serving.
Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free tortillas?
Yes, whole wheat tortillas or gluten-free tortillas can be substituted for regular flour tortillas to fit dietary preferences.
How do I prevent the filling from spilling out?
Make sure to roll the tortillas tightly and leave a small border around the edges to ensure the filling stays inside. Also, chilling the roll ups before slicing can help them firm up, making them easier to cut without the filling spilling out.
How do I make these roll ups spicier?
To add more heat, mix in some diced jalapeños, chipotle peppers, or a dash of cayenne pepper into the filling. You can also drizzle some hot sauce over the roll ups before serving.
Can I serve these roll ups warm?
These roll ups are typically served cold or at room temperature, but you can also warm them in the oven for a few minutes if you prefer a warm snack.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any cheese you prefer, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a Mexican blend for extra flavor.
How long should I refrigerate the roll ups?
For best results, refrigerate the tortilla roll ups for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop and make them easier to slice.
Can I serve these roll ups with dipping sauce?
Yes, these tortilla roll ups pair beautifully with salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or even a creamy cilantro dressing for dipping.
How do I make these roll ups more festive?
For a festive touch, you can garnish with fresh diced tomatoes, avocado, or a sprinkle of chili powder. You can also arrange the roll ups on a serving tray and add colorful toppings like diced red onions or crumbled queso fresco.
Conclusion
Mexican Tortilla Roll Ups are a quick, versatile, and crowd-pleasing snack or appetizer that everyone will love. With their creamy, flavorful filling and customizable ingredients, they are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual gathering, a party, or just a tasty snack. Simple to prepare and easy to adapt, these roll ups are a great way to bring the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine to your table in a fun and creative way.
PrintMexican Tortilla Roll Ups
Mexican Tortilla Roll Ups are a fun and delicious appetizer or snack that combines the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine in a simple, bite-sized format. Filled with creamy cheese, flavorful spices, and other tasty fillings like seasoned chicken, beef, or beans, these roll ups are perfect for parties, picnics, or a quick snack.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: undefined
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 4 large flour tortillas
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
1 packet taco seasoning mix (or homemade seasoning)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup diced bell pepper (any color)
1/2 cup diced red onion
1/2 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
1/2 cup cooked and shredded chicken or beef (optional)
1/2 cup black beans (optional, for a vegetarian version)
1 tbsp lime juice (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, taco seasoning, and lime juice (if using). Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Add the shredded cheddar cheese, diced bell pepper, red onion, and cilantro (if using) to the cream cheese mixture. Stir until everything is evenly incorporated.
- If you’re using chicken, beef, or black beans, mix them into the creamy filling for added protein and flavor.
- Lay the flour tortillas flat on a clean surface. Spread an even layer of the cream cheese mixture over each tortilla, making sure to cover it completely, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Roll up each tortilla tightly, starting from one edge and rolling toward the other, making sure the filling stays inside.
- Slice the rolled tortillas into 1-inch thick pinwheels using a sharp knife.
- Arrange the tortilla roll ups on a serving platter and garnish with additional cilantro or a squeeze of lime, if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- Add Protein: For added protein, you can include shredded cooked chicken, beef, or turkey in the filling mixture.
- Vegetarian Option: Use black beans, corn, and avocado instead of meat for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Spicy Tortilla Roll Ups: Add chopped jalapeños, hot sauce, or diced green chilies to the filling for an extra kick.
- Cheese Variation: You can swap out cheddar cheese for other varieties like Monterey Jack, Mexican blend, or pepper jack for a different flavor.
- Low-Carb Option: Use low-carb tortillas or lettuce wraps instead of flour tortillas for a lighter version of the roll ups.
- Storage: Store any leftover tortilla roll ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: These roll ups are best served cold or at room temperature, so no reheating is necessary. If desired, let them sit out for a few minutes before serving for the best texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pinwheel
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 30mg