Creamy Taco Pinwheels Recipe
Introduction
Creamy Taco Pinwheels are a fun and flavorful appetizer perfect for parties or casual gatherings. These bite-sized rolls combine seasoned meat, creamy cheese, and fresh veggies all wrapped in soft tortillas. Easy to prepare and sure to please a crowd!
Ingredients
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 8 oz (about 225 g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (120 ml) sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 cup (about 100 g) shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 1 cup (about 150 g) cooked ground beef or turkey, seasoned with taco seasoning
- ¼ cup (about 25 g) chopped green onions
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ cup (about 75 g) diced bell peppers or tomatoes (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream or Greek yogurt until smooth. Stir in the shredded cheese, cooked and seasoned ground meat, taco seasoning, chopped green onions, and optional diced bell peppers or tomatoes. Mix until well combined.
- Step 2: Lay each flour tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread the filling evenly over each tortilla, leaving about a ½-inch border around the edges to prevent spilling when rolling.
- Step 3: Starting from one edge, roll each tortilla tightly into a log, keeping the filling packed evenly inside. Wrap each rolled tortilla in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Step 4: Remove the plastic wrap and slice each roll into 1-inch thick pinwheels using a sharp knife. Arrange on a platter and serve chilled or slightly warmed.
Tips & Variations
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground meat with cooked black beans or lentils seasoned with taco spices.
- Try adding finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the filling for extra heat.
- Use spinach or sun-dried tomato tortillas for added color and flavor.
- Make these pinwheels a day ahead to allow flavors to meld nicely.
Storage
Store the prepared pinwheels covered in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you prefer them warm, gently heat in the microwave for 20–30 seconds before serving, or enjoy them chilled for a fresher texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, feel free to swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or your favorite Mexican cheese blend to suit your taste.
How far in advance can I prepare these pinwheels?
You can assemble and refrigerate the pinwheels up to 24 hours before serving. This resting time helps the filling set and makes slicing easier.
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Creamy Taco Pinwheels Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
These Creamy Taco Pinwheels are a delightful and easy-to-make appetizer or snack featuring seasoned ground beef or turkey, creamy cheese filling, and fresh vegetables wrapped in soft flour tortillas. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, they combine bold taco flavors with a creamy texture that will please any crowd.
Ingredients
Tortillas
- 4 large flour tortillas
Filling
- 8 oz (about 225 g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (120 ml) sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 cup (about 100 g) shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 1 cup (about 150 g) cooked ground beef or turkey, seasoned with taco seasoning
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- ¼ cup (about 25 g) chopped green onions
- ½ cup (about 75 g) diced bell peppers or tomatoes (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese and sour cream (or Greek yogurt) until smooth. Stir in shredded cheese, cooked and seasoned ground beef or turkey, taco seasoning, chopped green onions, and optional diced bell peppers or tomatoes. Mix well to fully combine all ingredients.
- Assemble the pinwheels: Lay each flour tortilla flat on a clean surface. Evenly spread the filling mixture over the tortilla, leaving about a ½-inch border around the edges to prevent the filling from spilling out when rolled.
- Roll tightly: Starting from one edge, carefully roll each tortilla into a tight log, making sure the filling remains evenly distributed inside. Wrap each rolled tortilla tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up for easier slicing.
- Slice & serve: Remove the plastic wrap and slice each tortilla roll into approximately 1-inch thick pinwheels using a sharp knife. Arrange the pinwheels on a serving platter and serve chilled for optimal texture and flavor. You may also warm them slightly if preferred.
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, substitute seasoned ground beef or turkey with cooked beans or a plant-based meat alternative.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangier taste and additional protein.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to make mixing easier and achieve a smoother filling.
- You can prepare these pinwheels a few hours ahead; just keep them refrigerated until serving.
- Optional diced bell peppers or tomatoes add freshness and color but can be omitted if preferred.
- To warm pinwheels slightly, place on a baking sheet and heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (to cook seasoned ground beef or turkey)
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Keywords: taco pinwheels, creamy taco pinwheels, appetizer, snack, party food, ground beef pinwheels, Mexican appetizer
