How to make taco roll ups is a fun and simple way to whip up a snack that everyone loves. These taco tortilla rolls not only taste amazing but they also make for a quick party appetizer that can be enjoyed at home or when hosting friends.
This recipe handles issues like tedious prep, uneven filling distribution, lack of clear rolling guidance, and avoids sogginess to deliver an easy party appetizer solution.
I’ve had my fair share of cooking mishaps, like forgetting to buy enough tortillas for my kiddo’s playdate, but this recipe saved the day! The creamy, cheesy filling mixed with zesty taco flavors never fails to satisfy, even on those busy weeknights when time is short.
What I love about these rolls is that they come together in just about 10 minutes, making it super easy to double the recipe if you need more. Trust me, they are well-tested and always hit the spot with everyone who tries them!
If you want another quick and easy bite-sized treat, try my Pizza Sticks for your next gathering.
Table of contents
Dietary Considerations
- This recipe is not gluten-free due to the soft flour tortillas used as a base for the taco tortilla roll.
- The recipe contains shredded cheddar cheese, so it is unsuitable for dairy-free diets and those avoiding lactose.
- This recipe is not vegan because it includes shredded cooked chicken and cheddar cheese from animal sources.
- The recipe suits low-carb and keto diets only when replacing tortillas with low-carb or coconut flour tortillas.
- The recipe is nut-free since none of the ingredients contain nuts or nut derivatives in this taco tortilla roll.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation Time These taco tortilla rolls are super easy to whip up, taking only ten minutes of your time. You can quickly mix the filling and get rolling, making them ideal for unexpected get-togethers.
- Bold Flavor Profile With creamy cheese, zesty taco seasoning, and fresh cilantro, each bite bursts with essential taco flavors. This combo ensures a tasty experience that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
- Great for Storage These rolls keep well in the fridge for several hours or even overnight. Make them ahead for a busy day, and they’ll still taste fresh and delicious when it’s time to enjoy.
- Versatile Ingredient Options Feel free to swap out shredded chicken for your protein of choice. With so many ways to customize the filling, you can cater to different tastes and dietary needs with ease.
How to Make Taco Tortilla Roll
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cool Time: 120 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 60 rolls 1x
- Category: appetizer
- Method: no-cook assembly
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: low lactose
Description
Quick and easy taco tortilla roll ups, perfect for parties and gatherings.
Ingredients
- 6 burrito-sized flour tortillas (fresh and pliable for easy rolling)
- 8 oz (227 g) cream cheese, softened
- 4 oz (113 g) sour cream
- 1 1/2 cups (170 g) shredded cheddar cheese (good-quality)
- 1 1/2 cups (about 150 g) cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken recommended)
- 1/3 cup (15 g) cilantro, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) taco seasoning
- 1/3 cup (80 ml) taco sauce
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine 8 oz (227 g) softened cream cheese with 4 oz (113 g) sour cream. Stir until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps to create a creamy base that helps the filling hold together.
- Step 2: Add 2 tablespoons (30 ml) taco seasoning and 1/3 cup (80 ml) taco sauce to the cream cheese mixture. Mix thoroughly until fully incorporated and no lumps remain. This provides the signature zesty taco flavor.
- Step 3: Stir in 1 1/2 cups (170 g) shredded cheddar cheese, 1 1/2 cups (about 150 g) cooked and shredded chicken, and 1/3 cup (15 g) finely chopped cilantro. Mix until the filling ingredients are evenly distributed throughout.
- Step 4: Lay out one burrito-sized flour tortilla on a clean surface. Using a spatula, spread one-sixth of the filling evenly over the tortilla, leaving about a half-inch border around the edges to prevent filling from spilling out during rolling.
- Step 5: Starting from one edge, roll the tortilla tightly but carefully enough to avoid tearing. A tight roll is necessary to maintain structure and keep the filling inside for easy slicing.
- Step 6: Wrap each rolled tortilla tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate the wrapped rolls for at least 2 hours. Chilling allows flavors to meld and firms up the mixture for cleaner slicing.
- Step 7: Remove plastic wrap before cutting. Using a sharp serrated knife, slice each roll into approximately 1/2 inch (1.25 cm) thick bite-sized wheels. Slice slowly and steadily to avoid unraveling the rolls.
- Step 8: Place any leftover roll ups in an airtight container and refrigerate. They will remain fresh for up to 4 days.
Notes
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day, keeping them away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container and tightly wrapped with plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to prevent drying out and odor absorption.
- Freezing: Wrap rolls tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before slicing and serving.
- If tortillas tear when rolling, warm them in the microwave for 10 seconds to increase pliability.
- If the filling is too thick to spread evenly, add up to 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of taco sauce to loosen the mixture.
- Use a sharp serrated knife and cut slowly to avoid unraveling the rolls when slicing.
- Prepare no more than 24 hours ahead to prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy. Store tightly wrapped in the refrigerator.
- Serve bite-sized roll ups with guacamole or fresh salsa.
- Add a side of mixed greens or grilled corn salad as accompaniments.
- Top individual rolls with sour cream or avocado crema for added creaminess.
- A drizzle of hot sauce adds extra flavor if desired.
- These roll ups can also be served as wrap sandwiches, mini burritos, or arranged on a party platter for appetizers.
- Substitute 1 cup (about 150 g) of cooked black beans for the shredded chicken to create a vegetarian version while maintaining flavor.
- Use soft flour tortillas that are fresh and pliable to ensure easy rolling; thicker tortillas may tear or not roll properly.
- Rotisserie or pre-cooked shredded chicken works best for even texture and ease of mixing.
- Choose fresh, vibrant green cilantro with no yellowing leaves for brightness.
- Opt for a good-quality shredded cheddar cheese to bring a melty texture and robust flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
Ingredient Notes
- Tortillas: Choose soft flour tortillas for nice rollability. Look for ones that are fresh and pliable, thick tortillas won’t roll well.
- Cooked chicken: Use shredded cooked chicken for clean texture and ease in rolling. Rotisserie chicken works great, just shred it up!
- Salsa: Pick a fresh, chunky salsa that adds flavor. The moisture helps bind the filling, making each bite delightful!
- Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese brings a melty, gooey texture. Use a good-quality brand for the best flavor.
- Avocado: Ripe avocados add creaminess. Look for firm ones that yield slightly when gently pressed, this ensures a fresh taste without browning.
- Olives: Kalamata olives lend a briny punch. Slice them for easy mixing. Choose pitted ones to save prep time!
- Green onions: Thinly sliced green onions add crunch and a mild onion flavor. Use fresh ones, wilted or yellowing won’t give the same zing!
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings brightness. Grab a bunch with vibrant green leaves, avoid any yellowing to keep that fresh flavor.
Recipe Tips
- If tortillas tear when rolling, warm them for 10 seconds in the microwave to make them more pliable and easier to handle.
- When your filling is too thick, add up to 2 tablespoons of taco sauce to achieve a smoother consistency that spreads easily.
- If rolls unravel during cutting, use a sharp serrated knife to slice slowly, ensuring clean cuts without disrupting the filling.
- For soggy tortillas, prepare these roll ups no more than 24 hours in advance and store them tightly wrapped in the refrigerator.
- If you want to customize your filling, substitute 1 cup of cooked black beans for chicken for a vegetarian option that maintains flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with guacamole or fresh salsa for an extra kick. Add a side of mixed greens or grilled corn salad.
Use to make wrap sandwiches or mini burritos. Add to a party platter or create bite-sized appetizers.
Top with sour cream or avocado crema for a creamy finish. Include a drizzle of hot sauce for added flavor.
Recipe variations
- You can use ground beef instead of shredded chicken in the taco tortilla roll filling. Add 1 1/2 cups cooked and seasoned ground beef for a meaty option.
- Add chipotle seasoning or 1 teaspoon smoked paprika to the cream cheese mix for a smoky flavor. Either homemade or store-bought taco sauce works well here.
- Either shredded Monterey Jack cheese or a Mexican cheese blend can replace cheddar cheese. Use 1 1/2 cups of the cheese you prefer for consistent texture and taste.
- If using black beans instead of chicken, rinse and drain 1 1/2 cups cooked beans. These vegetarian rolls can be scaled by doubling all filling amounts for larger groups.
Save This Recipe!
How to Store?
To keep your taco tortilla roll fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:
Room Temperature: Place in an airtight container at room temperature up to 1 day. Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources to maintain freshness.
Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 4 days. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out or absorbing odors.
Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container or bag up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before slicing and serving.
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- Creme Brulee Donuts
If you enjoyed this Taco Tortilla Roll or any other recipe on my blog, please leave a ⭐ star rating and let me know how it went in the comments below. I appreciate taking time to read about this recipe, thank you!
