Mexican Tortilla Roll Ups
When it comes to easy appetizers that are a hit at any gathering, Mexican Tortilla Roll Ups top the list! These delightful bites pack a punch of flavor and are super simple to whip up. Perfect for game days, potlucks, or just a casual snack at home, they bring a taste of Mexico to your table without the fuss. With creamy cheese, zesty chiles, and a hint of garlic, these roll-ups are sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
What Sets This Recipe Apart
The beauty of Mexican Tortilla Roll Ups lies in their versatility and flavor profile. Unlike standard pinwheels, these roll-ups incorporate a mix of creamy cheese and savory ingredients, ensuring that each bite is bursting with taste. The addition of black olives and green onions not only enhances the flavor but also adds a delightful crunch. Plus, they can be made ahead of time, making them a convenient choice for busy hosts.
What’s in the Bowl
To create these delicious Mexican Tortilla Roll Ups, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 8 ounces sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (4 ounces, see note 1)
- 1 (4-ounce) can diced green chiles, drained
- 1/2 cup pitted black olives, chopped (see note 2)
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt (see note 3)
- 8 (8-inch) flour tortillas (see note 4)
Equipment & Tools
To prepare your Mexican Tortilla Roll Ups, gather the following tools:
- Mixing bowl – for combining ingredients
- Spatula or wooden spoon – for mixing
- Cutting board – for slicing roll-ups
- Sharp knife – for clean cuts
- Plastic wrap – for chilling and storing
Mexican Tortilla Roll Ups: From Prep to Plate
Creating these Mexican Tortilla Roll Ups is a breeze. Follow these simple steps to make your appetizer shine!
Step 1: Mix the Cheese Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir well until smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Add Flavor
To the cheese mixture, add the diced green chiles, chopped black olives, sliced green onions, garlic powder, and seasoned salt. Mix until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Tortillas
Lay one tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread a generous layer of the cheese mixture evenly over the tortilla, leaving about half an inch from the edges.
Step 4: Roll it Up
Starting from one edge of the tortilla, carefully roll it up tightly. Make sure the filling stays inside as you roll. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and cheese mixture.
Step 5: Chill
Wrap each rolled tortilla in plastic wrap and place them in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This helps the flavors meld together and makes slicing easier.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Once chilled, remove the plastic wrap and place the roll-ups on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to slice the rolls into bite-sized pieces, about 1 to 1.5 inches thick. Arrange them on a platter and serve!
Tailor It to Your Diet
These Mexican Tortilla Roll Ups can easily be adapted to fit various dietary needs:
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free tortillas instead of regular flour tortillas.
- Dairy-free: Substitute dairy-free cream cheese and sour cream alternatives.
- Spicy: Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture for a kick.
- Vegetarian: This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly, but you can add more veggies like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
What Not to Do
When making Mexican Tortilla Roll Ups, keep these tips in mind to ensure success:
- Don’t skip chilling the roll-ups. Chilling helps the filling firm up and makes slicing easier.
- Avoid overfilling the tortillas, as this can make them difficult to roll and may lead to spills.
- Make sure to drain the diced green chiles well to prevent excess moisture in the filling.
- Do not use stale tortillas; fresh tortillas will roll up more easily and yield better texture.
Storing Tips & Timelines
To keep your Mexican Tortilla Roll Ups fresh and delicious:
Store any leftover roll-ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They are best enjoyed within 3-5 days. If you want to prepare them ahead of time, you can make the roll-ups and keep them wrapped in plastic wrap in the fridge for up to 24 hours before serving. These roll-ups can also be frozen for up to a month. Just make sure to slice them after thawing for the best texture!
Ask the Chef
Can I use different cheeses in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends. Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a Mexican cheese blend would work beautifully in these Mexican Tortilla Roll Ups.
How can I make these roll-ups more visually appealing?
Consider adding some colorful veggies like bell peppers or diced tomatoes to the filling. You can also garnish the platter with fresh cilantro or serve with salsa for dipping.
Can I make these roll-ups ahead of time?
Yes! These Mexican Tortilla Roll Ups can be made a day in advance. Just be sure to keep them tightly wrapped in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
What can I serve with these roll-ups?
These roll-ups pair wonderfully with a variety of dips! Consider serving them with guacamole, salsa, or even a creamy ranch dip for added flavor.
Next Steps
Now that you have the recipe, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get rolling! Enjoy the process of creating these Mexican Tortilla Roll Ups and watch as your friends and family rave about your culinary skills. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a big celebration, these roll-ups are sure to be a hit. Don’t forget to put your own spin on them, and most importantly, have fun in the kitchen!
With every bite of these Mexican Tortilla Roll Ups, you’ll experience a delightful burst of flavor that will leave you wanting more. Happy rolling!
Mexican Tortilla Roll Ups
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir well until smooth and creamy.
- To the cheese mixture, add the diced green chiles, chopped black olives, sliced green onions, garlic powder, and seasoned salt. Mix until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is well combined.
- Lay one tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread a generous layer of the cheese mixture evenly over the tortilla, leaving about half an inch from the edges.
- Starting from one edge of the tortilla, carefully roll it up tightly. Make sure the filling stays inside as you roll. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and cheese mixture.
- Wrap each rolled tortilla in plastic wrap and place them in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This helps the flavors meld together and makes slicing easier.
- Once chilled, remove the plastic wrap and place the roll-ups on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to slice the rolls into bite-sized pieces, about 1 to 1.5 inches thick. Arrange them on a platter and serve!
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free tortillas.
- You can make these roll-ups a day in advance; just keep them tightly wrapped in the refrigerator.
