These Cream Cheese Tortilla Bites are a fun snack that everyone will love! Soft tortillas are spread with creamy cheese, rolled up, and cut into tasty little pieces.
Perfect for parties or movie nights, they are quick to make and always disappear fast. I like to add a bit of seasoning to the cream cheese for that extra kick—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flour Tortillas: Large flour tortillas make rolling easy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using whole wheat tortillas or even spinach tortillas for extra flavor.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is the star here! You could substitute with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist, or dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan option.
Cooked Chicken: Using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. If you’re vegetarian, skip this or use black beans or chopped veggies instead to keep it hearty.
Spices: Garlic powder and smoked paprika give a nice kick. Feel free to experiment with your favorite spices or herbs, like Italian seasoning or cayenne for heat.
Cheddar Cheese: While cheddar is delicious, you can easily swap it with pepper jack for spice, or skip it altogether for a lighter version.
How Do I Roll Tortillas Tightly Without Breaking Them?
Rolling tortillas tightly is key for these bites to hold their shape. Here are some steps to avoid any mishaps:
- Make sure the tortillas are at room temperature; cold ones can crack.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly but not too thick to ensure a tight roll.
- Start at one end and roll tightly but gently, tucking in any filling that may peek out.
- Once rolled, let them sit seam side down for a couple of minutes before slicing to help maintain their shape.
Remember, it’s okay if they aren’t perfect; just enjoy the process and the yummy outcome!
How to Make Cream Cheese Tortilla Bites?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tortilla Bites:
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, finely chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
For the Seasoning:
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika or chili powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley or cilantro, finely chopped
For Cooking:
- Olive oil or cooking spray (for pan frying)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15-20 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and easy appetizer or snack that’s ready to impress your friends and family!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Cream Cheese:
In a mixing bowl, add the softened cream cheese along with garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Use a fork or a hand mixer to mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth. This will be the tasty filling!
2. Add Chicken and Cheese (Optional):
If you’re using cooked chicken and shredded cheddar cheese, gently fold them into the cream cheese mixture until well incorporated. This adds extra flavor and protein!
3. Prepare the Tortillas:
4. Roll It Up:
Starting from one end, roll the tortilla tightly into a log shape. Be careful to keep it tight but not so tight that the filling leaks out. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas.
5. Slice the Tortillas:
Using a sharp knife, slice each rolled tortilla into 1 to 1 1/2 inch thick pieces. These are the lovely bite-sized rounds that everyone will enjoy!
6. Fry the Bites:
Heat a bit of olive oil or spray some cooking spray in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the tortilla bites cut side down in the pan and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. After that, flip them over and brown the other side for another 2 minutes.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re crispy, take them out of the pan and arrange them on a serving plate. Toss some chopped parsley or cilantro on top for freshness. Serve them warm or at room temperature with salsa, ranch dip, or your favorite sauce!
These creamy, crispy tortilla bites are sure to be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy making and sharing them!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Tortillas Instead of Flour Tortillas?
Absolutely! Whole wheat tortillas are a great alternative and add a nuttier flavor. They might be a bit sturdier, so they can hold up beautifully when rolling and frying!
Can I Make These Tortilla Bites Vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make them vegetarian by omitting the chicken. You can substitute it with chopped bell peppers, spinach, or black beans for added flavor and texture.
How Can I Store Leftover Tortilla Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in a hot skillet for a couple of minutes until heated through, or microwave them for about 30 seconds.
Can I Prepare These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the rolls in advance and store them in the fridge. Just slice and fry them right before serving to ensure they are crispy and delicious!
