These Cream Cheese Tortilla Bites are tasty little snacks that are super easy to make! With creamy cheese wrapped in soft tortillas, they are perfect for any gathering.
Roll them up, slice them into bite-sized pieces, and watch them disappear! They’re a hit at parties and are great for lunch too. Trust me, you’ll want to make plenty! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flour Tortillas: Large flour tortillas are the best choice for this recipe as they roll easily. If you need a gluten-free option, use corn tortillas or gluten-free wraps instead.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese gives a rich texture, but you can use Neufchâtel cheese for a lighter version. For dairy-free, there are great plant-based cream cheese options available.
Bacon: Bacon adds a nice crunch and smoky flavor, but turkey bacon or crumbled sausage can work too. For a meatless take, consider using sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers.
Green Onions & Parsley: These add freshness and color. If you don’t have green onions, chives work nicely. Cilantro can replace parsley for a different flavor twist.
Cheddar Cheese: Optional, but it brings an extra cheesiness! Feel free to swap for mozzarella or pepper jack for a bit of spice.
How Can I Get Perfectly Crispy Tortilla Bites?
Frying your tortilla bites to a perfect crisp is essential. Start by heating the oil properly – it should be around 350°F (175°C). Too low and your bites will absorb oil; too high and they can burn quickly. Use a thermometer if you have one.
- Heat the oil gradually in a heavy skillet.
- Carefully place the pinwheels seam side down to avoid unrolling.
- Fry in small batches to keep the temperature consistent.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; it slows down cooking.
- Drain on paper towels immediately after frying for that crunch!
Cream Cheese Tortilla Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil, for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 15 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to fry the bites until they’re golden brown and crispy. In total, you will need around 25 minutes to make these delicious treats from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
In a medium bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, chopped bacon, green onions, parsley, shredded cheddar cheese (if you’re using it), garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir well until all the ingredients are evenly combined and creamy.
2. Assemble the Tortillas:
Take a large flour tortilla and lay it flat on a clean surface. Spread an even layer of the cream cheese mixture across the entire tortilla, covering it without overloading any one area.
3. Roll It Up:
Starting from one edge, carefully roll the tortilla tightly into a log, making sure the filling stays inside.
4. Slice the Pinwheels:
Using a sharp knife, slice the rolled tortilla into pinwheels, each about 1-inch (2.5 cm) thick. You should get around 10-12 pinwheels per tortilla.
5. Heat the Oil:
In a heavy skillet, pour about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil and heat it over medium heat until it’s hot but not smoking (around 350°F or 175°C). You can test the oil’s readiness by dropping in a small piece of tortilla—if it bubbles and sizzles, it’s ready!
6. Fry the Bites:
Carefully add several tortilla pinwheels to the hot oil, seam side down. Fry them in batches for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy bites.
7. Drain and Garnish:
Once fried, remove the pinwheels with a slotted spoon and let them drain on a plate lined with paper towels. This helps to absorb excess oil and keeps them crispy.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the tortilla bites warm while they’re crispy and delicious! They make a perfect snack for parties or a fun appetizer for gatherings.
Can I Use Whole Wheat Tortillas Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat tortillas are a great option for added fiber and nutrition. Just make sure they’re pliable so they roll easily without cracking.
How Do I Store Leftover Tortilla Bites?
If you have leftovers, let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness!
Can I Make These Tortilla Bites in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and roll the tortillas a day ahead. Just cover the rolled tortillas tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. You can fry them just before serving for the best texture.
What Other Fillings Can I Use?
The possibilities are endless! You can try adding diced bell peppers, olives, or even spinach for a veggie-packed version. For a spicy kick, incorporate jalapeños or pepper jack cheese.