Get ready to fall in love with the Cheesy Chipotle Roll Ups Recipe, a bold and creamy snack that packs a flavorful punch in every bite. These roll ups balance the smoky heat of chipotle peppers with the cool creaminess of cream cheese and sour cream, brightened by fresh lime juice and a delightful hint of olives and cheddar. Perfect for a party appetizer or a cozy night in, this dish is as satisfying as it is simple, making it a total winner to keep in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Cheesy Chipotle Roll Ups Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that come together to create a harmonious blend of taste, texture, and color. Each component plays a vital role, from the tangy lime juice that lifts the creamy mixture to the shredded cheddar that adds a sharp, melty bite.
- Cream cheese (8 ounces, room temperature): Provides the rich and velvety base for the filling, ensuring smooth spreadability.
- Sour cream (½ cup, room temperature): Adds a tangy creaminess that balances the smoky chipotle peppers.
- Lime juice (2 tablespoons): Brightens the overall flavor and cuts through the richness with citrusy freshness.
- Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (3 peppers, diced): Imparts a smoky heat and depth that gives this recipe its signature kick.
- Black olives (½ cup, chopped): Contribute a briny contrast that enhances the savory elements.
- Cheddar cheese (1 cup, finely shredded): Brings a sharp, melty texture that melds beautifully with the creamy filling.
- Green onions (3, sliced thinly): Offer a fresh, mild onion flavor with a bit of crunch and vibrant green color.
- Flour tortillas (6 medium): Serve as a soft, pliable canvas to hold all the delicious fillings together.
How to Make Cheesy Chipotle Roll Ups Recipe
Step 1: Whip up the Creamy Base
Begin by mixing the cream cheese, sour cream, and lime juice in a medium bowl until you achieve a silky smooth mixture. This creamy foundation is crucial—it balances the heat and creates a luscious texture that melts in your mouth.
Step 2: Add the Flavorful Mix-ins
Fold in the diced chipotle peppers, chopped black olives, shredded cheddar, and sliced green onions. Stir everything together gently so the smoky, salty, and sharp flavors meld perfectly without overpowering each bite.
Step 3: Spread and Roll
Lay out each flour tortilla and spread a generous layer of the cheese and chipotle mixture evenly over the surface. Then, roll each tortilla up tightly to enclose all those bold flavors inside. This step ensures every slice will have that perfect swirl of ingredients.
Step 4: Chill for Perfect Slices
Place the rolled tortillas in the refrigerator for at least two hours. Chilling helps the filling set so when you slice them into bite-sized pinwheels, they hold together beautifully without falling apart.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
After chilling, take out your roll ups and slice each tortilla into 8 neat pieces. These colorful pinwheels make for an inviting presentation and an irresistible appetizer or snack.
How to Serve Cheesy Chipotle Roll Ups Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro or extra chopped green onions on top for a fresh herbal note and vibrant pop of color. A light drizzle of sour cream or a squeeze of fresh lime can also brighten each bite and add a touch of indulgence.
Side Dishes
Pair your Cheesy Chipotle Roll Ups Recipe with a crisp side salad, tangy pico de gallo, or a creamy guacamole to complement and contrast the spicy, cheesy flavors. Chips and salsa or a simple bowl of black beans also make fantastic accompaniments.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, arrange the roll ups on a platter with colorful vegetable sticks for dipping. Alternatively, serve them stacked in a fun tower or alongside a variety of dips like ranch or a smoky chipotle crema to encourage mixing and matching flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which might be unlikely because they disappear fast!), store them tightly wrapped in the refrigerator. They will keep their creamy texture and smoky flavor for up to three days.
Freezing
While these roll ups are best fresh, you can freeze them before slicing. Wrap the rolled tortillas in plastic wrap, then store in an airtight container or freezer bag. They freeze well for up to a month; thaw overnight in the fridge before slicing and serving.
Reheating
This recipe is usually enjoyed cold or at room temperature, but if you prefer warm roll ups, slice them first and warm gently in a skillet over low heat until the cheese melts slightly. Avoid microwaving if possible to prevent sogginess.
FAQs
Can I make these roll ups without chipotle peppers?
Absolutely! While chipotle peppers provide that signature smoky heat, you can substitute with mild green chilies or omit them for a creamy, cheesy roll up without spice. Adding a pinch of smoked paprika can help mimic some of the smoky flavor.
How spicy are the Cheesy Chipotle Roll Ups Recipe?
The dish has a mild to moderate heat level thanks to the chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. If you prefer less spice, reduce the number of peppers or remove the seeds before dicing.
Can I use whole wheat or corn tortillas instead?
Yes! Flour tortillas give the best pliability, but whole wheat or soft corn tortillas can work too, just be gentle to avoid tearing while rolling. Note that corn tortillas can be a bit less flexible and might need warming before spreading.
What’s a good way to transport these for a party?
Keep them rolled and chilled in an airtight container while transporting. Once you arrive, slice and arrange them on a serving platter. Bringing along some toothpicks or small skewers can make picking them up easy and tidy.
Can I add protein to the filling?
Definitely! Cooked shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, or chorizo can add heartiness to this recipe. Just fold the protein into the cream cheese mixture before spreading on the tortillas for extra flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
If you love simple recipes that deliver big on flavor, the Cheesy Chipotle Roll Ups Recipe is going to be your new go-to. It’s fresh, zesty, and absolutely irresistible with every creamy, smoky bite. I can’t wait for you to whip this up, share it with loved ones, and watch it disappear in no time. Trust me, once you try it, these roll ups become an instant classic you’ll want to make again and again!
Print
Cheesy Chipotle Roll Ups Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cheesy Chipotle Roll Ups are a flavorful, creamy appetizer featuring a blend of cream cheese, sour cream, zesty lime juice, smoky chipotle peppers, black olives, and sharp cheddar cheese, all rolled in soft flour tortillas and chilled to perfection. Perfect for parties or a tasty snack, these roll ups offer a spicy kick balanced by creamy cheeses.
Ingredients
Cheese Mixture
- 8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
- ½ cup sour cream, room temperature
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 3 chipotle peppers packed in adobo sauce, diced
- ½ cup chopped black olives
- 1 cup finely shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 green onions, sliced thinly
Other
- 6 medium flour tortillas
Instructions
- Prepare the cheese mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, and lime juice. Mix thoroughly until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy, ensuring even flavor and texture.
- Add the flavorings: Stir in the diced chipotle peppers, chopped black olives, shredded cheddar cheese, and sliced green onions into the cream cheese mixture. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Assemble the roll ups: Lay out each flour tortilla and spread a generous layer of the cheese mixture evenly over the surface. Roll each tortilla tightly to secure the filling inside.
- Chill the roll ups: Place the rolled tortillas in the refrigerator and chill for 2 hours. This allows the flavors to meld and the mixture to firm up, making slicing easier.
- Slice and serve: After chilling, slice each rolled tortilla into 8 bite-sized pieces. Arrange on a serving plate and serve chilled as a delicious appetizer or snack.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese and sour cream are at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Adjust the number of chipotle peppers to taste for desired spiciness.
- These roll ups can be made a day ahead and kept refrigerated.
- Use a sharp knife to slice the roll ups cleanly and prevent squishing.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute flour tortillas with gluten-free tortillas.
