Being a mom who’s always on the go, I value recipes that don’t require a ton of ingredients and are easy to put together, all while still being crowd-pleasers. This dish ticks all the boxes. I first stumbled upon this recipe looking for something different from our usual taco night. Taco Tortilla Roll Ups combines all the flavors we love about tacos but in a fun and easy-to-eat way. It’s like having tacos but without the mess!
What’s great is that you don’t even need the oven for this one. Yep, you heard it right! Zero cooking time involved, which is a blessing when you don’t want to heat up the kitchen. Just mix, spread, roll, chill, and slice – that’s all there is to it. And the best part? Watching everyone, from kids to adults, munch away happily. They think I’m a culinary genius!
These roll-ups are the perfect finger food for any occasion. Whether it’s game night, a potluck, or just a simple dinner with family, they fit right in. Everyone can have a piece of the delicious action, and there’s no fuss or plates needed. All those luscious flavors from the spicy jalapenos, creamy cheese, and tangy salsa wrapped up in a soft tortilla – who wouldn’t want to give this a try?
Now, I’d love you to try this recipe, bring you the same joy it brings us. Fair warning though, you’ll probably want to double the batch because once you start, you can’t stop at just one! So, grab those tortillas and let’s get rolling!
How to Make Taco Tortilla Roll Ups
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Ingredients:
- 8 oz Cream cheese, softened
- 1/3 cup Salsa (taco or picante sauce)
- 1-2 Jalapenos, finely diced (adjust to taste)
- 4 oz Sour cream
- 1 1/2 cups Chicken, cooked and shredded
- 1 1/2 cups Cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/3 cup Cilantro, finely chopped
- 6 large flour tortillas
- 2 tbsp Taco seasoning
Directions:
- Combine the cream cheese, salsa, jalapenos, sour cream, chicken, cheddar cheese, cilantro, and taco seasoning in a large bowl. Stir well until everything is evenly mixed.
- Lay out a tortilla on a flat surface and spread about 2 to 3 tablespoons of the cheese mixture evenly across the entire tortilla.
- Carefully roll up the tortilla, ensuring it is tight, and place it seam-side down on a plate.
- Repeat this process with all the tortillas until the mixture is used up.
- Refrigerate the rolls for approximately 2 hours to allow them to firm up.
- After chilling, trim off the ends of each roll up and slice the remainder into bite-sized pieces. Garnish with additional cilantro before serving.
Ingredient Substitutions:
If you’re not a fan of chicken or want a veggie option, try using black beans or grilled vegetables instead. For those who prefer a milder flavor, replace jalapenos with bell peppers. You can also use a different cheese like Monterey Jack for a twist on the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions:
Taco Tortilla Roll Ups are perfect on their own, but you can serve them with a side of guacamole or a spicy salsa for dipping. For a full meal, pair them with a refreshing salad or a cold, sparkling limeade to balance the flavors.
Seasonal Variations:
During the summer months, fresh corn or diced avocado can add a refreshing touch to the roll-ups. In the fall, incorporate roasted squash for a hearty twist. Adjust the spicy level by using seasonal hot sauces or salsas to cater to your taste.
Cooking Tips:
Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened to make mixing easier. If you’re short on time, you can place tortillas in the freezer for a quicker set. For extra flavor, lightly toast the tortillas before spreading the mixture for a subtle crunch.
Storing Suggestion:
Store any leftover roll-ups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you anticipate having leftovers, only slice what you need and keep the rest rolled and uncut to maintain freshness. Avoid freezing as it can affect texture.
FAQ:
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Shredded rotisserie chicken works perfectly because it’s already cooked and adds a great flavor to the roll-ups. You can also use grilled or baked chicken breasts that are finely shredded.
Can I make these roll-ups in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare them a day in advance and keep them in the fridge. This helps the flavors develop even more, making them taste better once ready to serve.
Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?
To amp up the heat, add more jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. Alternatively, use a hotter type of salsa or incorporate chili flakes for a spicy kick!
How do I ensure the roll-ups don’t unravel?
Make sure to roll the tortillas tightly and place them seam-side down when chilling to keep them from unraveling. The chilling process helps secure them in place.
Can I use a different type of tortilla?
Yes, you can use whole wheat or spinach tortillas for a different taste and nutritional profile. Just ensure they are large enough to hold the stuffing and roll well.
What can I do if I’m gluten intolerant?
If you’re avoiding gluten, opt for gluten-free tortillas available at most grocery stores. This way, you can still enjoy the deliciousness of these roll-ups without worry.
Taco Tortilla Roll Ups
Ingredients
- 8 oz Cream cheese softened
- 1/3 cup Salsa taco or picante sauce
- 1-2 Jalapenos finely diced, adjust to taste
- 4 oz Sour cream
- 1 1/2 cups Chicken cooked and shredded
- 1 1/2 cups Cheddar cheese shredded
- 1/3 cup Cilantro finely chopped
- 6 Large flour tortillas
- 2 tbsp Taco seasoning
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix all ingredients, excluding tortillas, until well blended.
- Place a tortilla on a plate and evenly spread about 2 to 3 tablespoons of the cream cheese mixture all the way to the edges.
- Tightly roll the tortilla and place it seam-side down on a plate. Continue this process until all tortillas are filled.
- Chill the rolled tortillas in the fridge for about 2 hours to set.
- Once chilled, slice off the ends of each roll and garnish with extra cilantro before serving.
