If you are looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that bursts with flavor and is delightfully easy to prepare, then the Taco Tortilla Roll-Ups Recipe is exactly what you need. These vibrant, bite-sized roll-ups combine creamy, spicy, and cheesy elements all wrapped in soft tortillas, making them perfect for parties, snack time, or even a fun family dinner. Each roll-up packs a punch of classic taco ingredients and colorful textures that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Taco Tortilla Roll-Ups Recipe is in its simplicity and the harmony of fresh, bold ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role — from the creamy base that brings smoothness, to the jalapeños that add a bit of heat, to the shredded chicken that delivers satisfying protein and texture.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Creates a rich, velvety spread that binds everything together perfectly.
- Sour cream (4 oz): Adds a cool tang that balances the spices with a creamy undertone.
- Taco seasoning (2 tbsp): Infuses the mixture with that unmistakable smoky and zesty taco flavor.
- Salsa (1/3 cup): Brings a fresh, slightly acidic brightness that livens up each bite.
- Jalapeños (1–2, seeded and finely diced): Offers customizable heat and a subtle crunch.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 1/2 cups): Adds gooey cheesiness and a satisfying sharpness.
- Cooked and shredded chicken (1 1/2 cups): Provides hearty, tender protein that complements the creamy and spicy flavors.
- Fresh cilantro (1/3 cup, finely chopped): Lifts the roll-ups with a fresh herbal note, brightening the overall taste.
- Flour tortillas (6, 8-inch): Soft and pliable wraps that hold all the delicious fillings together.
How to Make Taco Tortilla Roll-Ups Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Taco Filling
Start by combining the softened cream cheese and sour cream in a mixing bowl until smooth. Stir in the taco seasoning and salsa to infuse the mixture with classic taco flavors. Fold in the finely diced jalapeños, shredded cheddar, shredded chicken, and cilantro. This creamy, flavorful filling is the heart of your roll-ups – the perfect balance of spice, protein, and freshness in every bite.
Step 2: Spread the Mixture on Tortillas
Lay out your flour tortillas flat on a clean surface. With a butter knife or spatula, spread an even layer of the taco filling over each tortilla, leaving just a small margin around the edges. This ensures each roll-up is packed with flavor and rolls up easily without spilling.
Step 3: Roll and Chill
Carefully roll each tortilla tightly from one edge to the other, making sure the filling stays inside. Wrap the roll-ups in plastic wrap or foil and place them in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. Chilling helps the filling firm up, making slicing much neater and easier, so your presentation is as impressive as the taste.
Step 4: Slice and Serve
Once chilled and firm, unwrap the roll-ups and slice each tortilla into 1-inch pieces to create bite-sized pinwheels. Arrange them on a platter and get ready to impress your guests with these tasty little pockets of taco goodness.
How to Serve Taco Tortilla Roll-Ups Recipe
Garnishes
To add some extra color and flavor, sprinkle chopped cilantro or green onions on top. You can also offer a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce for guests who love an extra kick. A squeeze of fresh lime over the roll-ups just before serving adds a bright, zesty finish that elevates the entire dish.
Side Dishes
Pair the roll-ups with classic Mexican sides such as guacamole, pico de gallo, or a fresh green salad with lime vinaigrette. Crispy tortilla chips with salsa or queso are also fantastic companions. These sides complement the roll-ups and round out your meal or appetizer spread with balance and texture.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the roll-ups on a large wooden board or colorful platter for a festive touch. Arrange them with small bowls of dipping sauces scattered around for easy access. For a party, label each dipping sauce, and decorate the platter with sliced limes, jalapeño rings, or edible flowers to wow your crowd.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover roll-ups in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making them a perfect grab-and-go snack or quick lunch option.
Freezing
While these roll-ups are best enjoyed fresh or chilled, you can freeze them for longer storage. Wrap each roll-up tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw completely in the refrigerator before slicing and serving.
Reheating
Since the roll-ups are intended to be served cold or at room temperature, reheating is not recommended. Instead, allow frozen roll-ups to thaw and enjoy their creamy, fresh texture without heating.
FAQs
Can I make the Taco Tortilla Roll-Ups Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the shredded chicken and add extra beans, corn, or sautéed veggies like bell peppers and onions for a satisfying vegetarian version.
How spicy are these roll-ups?
The heat level depends on your jalapeño choice and how much you add. You can adjust by using fewer jalapeños or substituting with milder peppers to suit your spice preference.
Can I use whole wheat or corn tortillas?
Whole wheat flour tortillas work well and add a nuttier flavor. Corn tortillas tend to be less pliable and may crack when rolling, so flour tortillas remain the best choice for a neat roll-up.
Is it possible to prepare these roll-ups in advance for a party?
Yes! Preparing and chilling the roll-ups a few hours or even the day before your event ensures they stay fresh and save you time on the day of the party.
What dips pair well with Taco Tortilla Roll-Ups Recipe?
The roll-ups shine alongside creamy dips like guacamole, salsa, queso, or a simple sour cream mixed with lime and cilantro. Choose your favorite for added flavor options!
Final Thoughts
This Taco Tortilla Roll-Ups Recipe is truly a gem in the world of party appetizers and quick snacks. The incredible combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory elements wrapped in a soft tortilla is irresistible and endlessly versatile. I can’t wait for you to try them and see just how easy it is to wow your friends and family with this crowd favorite. It’s proof that simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, become something truly special.
Print
Taco Tortilla Roll-Ups Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 45 roll-ups
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
These Taco Tortilla Roll-Ups are a flavorful and easy-to-make appetizer perfect for parties or snack time. Cream cheese and sour cream combined with taco seasoning, salsa, and jalapeños create a spicy, creamy filling that pairs perfectly with shredded cheddar, chicken, and fresh cilantro. Rolled up in soft flour tortillas and chilled to set, these roll-ups offer a handheld bite bursting with classic taco flavors.
Ingredients
Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 oz sour cream
- 2 tbsp taco seasoning
- 1/3 cup salsa (taco or picante sauce)
- 1–2 jalapeños, seeded and finely diced (adjust to taste)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 1/3 cup cilantro, finely chopped
Wrap
- 6 (8-inch) flour tortillas
Instructions
- Prepare the filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and taco seasoning. Mix well until smooth and evenly seasoned, creating a creamy base for the roll-ups.
- Add salsa and jalapeños: Stir in the salsa and finely diced jalapeños, adjusting the amount of jalapeños to your preferred heat level. Mix until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Mix in cheese, chicken, and cilantro: Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, shredded cooked chicken, and chopped cilantro, ensuring even distribution throughout the mixture.
- Assemble the roll-ups: Lay out one flour tortilla on a clean surface. Spread a generous and even layer of the filling mixture over the entire tortilla, reaching all the edges.
- Roll the tortillas: Starting from one edge, tightly roll up the tortilla into a log shape, ensuring the filling stays inside. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
- Chill to set: Wrap each rolled tortilla tightly in plastic wrap and place them in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This chilling step helps the roll-ups hold their shape when sliced.
- Slice and serve: Remove the rolls from the refrigerator and unwrap. Using a sharp knife, slice each roll into 3/4 to 1-inch thick pinwheels. Arrange the roll-ups on a serving platter and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- For best results, use flour tortillas that are fresh and pliable to prevent cracking when rolling.
- Adjust the number of jalapeños according to your preferred spice level or leave them out entirely for a milder version.
- These roll-ups can be prepared a day ahead and kept refrigerated, making them convenient for parties.
- Feel free to substitute cooked shredded chicken with cooked ground beef or turkey for variation.
- If desired, garnish with additional cilantro or serve with extra salsa or sour cream for dipping.
