Dive into the vibrant world of Mexican street food with these incredible homemade cheesy antojitos! These spicy, cheesy, and creamy baked tortilla rolls are a culinary delight.
You’ll love their quick prep and cook time, making them ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect as an appetizer, a fun snack, or a light meal, these antojitos are guaranteed to be a hit.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Easy Cheesy Antojitos
You are going to adore this recipe for so many reasons. It makes baking simple for busy parents and beginners, perfectly aligning with our mission.
- Quick & Easy: This recipe features simple steps and minimal prep, getting delicious results in no time.
- Irresistibly Flavorful: Enjoy a fantastic combination of creamy, spicy, and cheesy flavors in every bite.
- Crowd-Pleaser: These delightful antojitos are perfect for parties, game nights, or any family gathering.
- Customizable Heat: Easily adjust the spice level to suit everyone’s preference, from mild to fiery.
- Baked Perfection: A healthier alternative to frying, these baked rolls are wonderfully golden and crispy.
Ingredients
Gather your simple ingredients to create these irresistible baked antojitos.
- 8 ounce cream cheese (at room temperature)
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup hot sauce
- ½ red bell pepper (chopped)
- ½ green bell pepper (chopped)
- 1 jalapeño pepper (chopped)
- 3 large tortillas (I used ancient grain whole wheat tortillas)
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
- Salsa or sour cream (for serving)
Notes & Substitutions
- Achieving the best flavor and texture for your antojitos starts with understanding your ingredients. Use full-fat cream cheese for the creamiest filling.
- Panko breadcrumbs will add an extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs work well too, or you can omit them entirely for a softer texture.
- For the hot sauce, choose your favorite brand and heat level; sriracha is a great alternative for a different flavor profile.
- Bell peppers are not only flavorful but also a good source of vitamins and antioxidants, as detailed by Healthline on the nutritional benefits of bell peppers.
- Feel free to use any color of bell pepper you have on hand. If you prefer less heat, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño pepper before chopping. For smaller, bite-sized antojitos, consider using mini corn tortillas.
- Don’t limit yourself to cheddar; Monterey Jack, Colby, or Pepper Jack cheeses are fantastic options.
- Finally, expand your dipping experience beyond salsa and sour cream with creamy guacamole, avocado crema, or a zesty cilantro-lime ranch dressing.
Equipment
You won’t need many special tools for this recipe. Just a few kitchen essentials will do.
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Medium mixing bowl
- Fork or spatula
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
Instructions For The Best Cheesy Antojitos
Making these easy antojitos is straightforward and fun! Follow these steps for perfect results every time.
- First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup. Set this aside.
- Next, in a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, breadcrumbs, and hot sauce. Use a fork or a spatula to mix these ingredients thoroughly until the cream cheese is smooth and fully incorporated.
- Ensure there are no lumps for a creamy filling. Now, add your finely chopped red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and jalapeño pepper to the cream cheese mixture. Fold them in gently until they are evenly distributed throughout the filling.
- Take one large tortilla and spread one-third of the cream cheese mixture evenly over its surface, reaching almost to the edges. Then, sprinkle one-third of the shredded cheddar cheese over the cream cheese layer. Repeat this process for the remaining two tortillas.
- Carefully roll up each filled tortilla tightly from one end to the other. A tight roll helps the antojitos maintain their shape during baking. With a sharp knife, cut each rolled tortilla into 1-inch thick slices. You should get about 6-8 slices per tortilla, depending on its size.
- Arrange the cut tortilla slices, cut-side up, on your prepared baking sheet. Leave a little space between each piece to allow for even baking and browning. Bake the antojitos in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. This heats them through and begins to melt the cheese.
- After 10 minutes, turn on your oven’s broiler. Broil the antojitos for an additional 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye on them. The tops should turn golden brown and become slightly crispy.
- Serve your delicious antojitos warm with your favorite salsa, sour cream, or other desired dips. Enjoy your homemade Mexican treat!
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
These tips will help you create the most delicious and perfectly baked antojitos every time.
- Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing. This makes it much softer and easier to combine with other ingredients, creating a smooth filling.
- Chop Finely: Dice your bell peppers and jalapeño very finely. Smaller pieces ensure even distribution in the filling and prevent tearing the tortillas when rolling.
- Don’t Overfill: Spread the filling in a moderate layer. Overfilling can cause the cheese and cream cheese to leak out during baking, making a mess.
- Roll Tightly: Roll your tortillas as tightly as possible. This is crucial for the antojitos to hold their shape and stay together when cut and baked.
- Watch Broiler: The broiler works quickly, so do not walk away. The antojitos can go from golden to burnt in a matter of seconds.
- Cheese Balance: While cheddar is delicious, avoid using excessive amounts. Too much cheese can overwhelm the other flavors and change the texture of the roll-ups.
Serving, Storage, & Variations
Make these antojitos your own with these creative ideas.
Serving Suggestions
Offer classic accompaniments like a vibrant salsa, a dollop of cool sour cream, or rich, creamy guacamole. Pair your delicious antojitos with refreshing margaritas, your favorite Mexican beer, or a sweet agua fresca.
For a lighter meal, serve them alongside a crisp green salad tossed with a simple vinaigrette.
Storage & Reheating
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the rolls, slice them, and then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before refrigerating for up to 24 hours. Just bake them when you’re ready.
- Freezing: To freeze, arrange uncooked slices on a baking tray and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to an airtight freezer bag for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Bake frozen or thawed slices until heated through and golden. For a quick reheat, use the microwave, but note they might be less crispy.
Variations
- Add Protein: Easily transform these antojitos by including cooked shredded chicken, seasoned ground beef, or tiny shrimp in the filling.
- Cheese Blends: Experiment with other cheeses like authentic Oaxaca, classic Monterey Jack, or a flavorful Mexican cheese blend for different textures.
- Spice Level: Adjust the heat by trying different peppers, such as mild poblano, fiery serrano, or a simple pinch of cayenne pepper in the cream cheese mixture.
- Flavor Boosts: Enhance the taste with a dash of garlic powder, onion powder, or a handful of fresh chopped cilantro mixed into the filling.
- Extra Veggies: Stir in finely diced corn or black beans to add more texture and nutritional value to your delicious antojitos.
Nutrition
Understanding the nutritional content of your homemade antojitos helps you make informed choices.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 266 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 11 g |
| Cholesterol | 60 mg |
| Sodium | 894 mg |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Serving Size | 1 serving |
These values provide approximate calories, carbohydrates, protein, and fat per serving. Please refer to the full recipe card for more detailed nutrition facts.
Remember, these values are estimates and can vary based on specific brands and ingredient modifications you choose for your antojitos.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly are Antojitos?
Antojitos translates to “little cravings” in Spanish, referring to a variety of popular Mexican street foods and snacks. They often include fried masa-based dishes or small, flavorful bites like these roll-ups.
Can I make these Antojitos vegetarian?
Yes, absolutely! This specific recipe for cheesy baked antojitos is already vegetarian-friendly, making it a great option for everyone.
How can I make the Antojitos less spicy?
To reduce the heat, ensure you remove all seeds and membranes from the jalapeño pepper before chopping. You can also use a milder hot sauce or simply reduce the amount.
Conclusion
These Easy Cheesy Antojitos offer a fantastic way to enjoy the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine right in your own kitchen. They are incredibly simple to prepare, making them perfect for busy parents and beginner cooks.
Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a delicious snack, these spicy baked tortilla roll-ups are a surefire hit. Quick to prepare and big on flavor, they are ideal for any occasion.
Easy Cheesy Antojitos
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix cream cheese, breadcrumbs, and hot sauce in a bowl until smooth.
- Add chopped red pepper, green pepper, and jalapeño. Mix until evenly combined.
- Spread one-third of the mixture over each tortilla. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese and roll tightly.
- Slice each roll into 1-inch pieces and place cut-side up on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then broil for 2-3 minutes until golden and crisp.
- Serve warm with salsa, sour cream, or other dips.
Nutrition
Notes
- Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth mixture.
- Adjust heat by modifying the amount of hot sauce or jalapeño.
- These baked tortilla rolls are a healthier alternative to fried versions and offer customizable flavor with different peppers, cheeses, and fillings.
