Taco Pinwheels Recipe

Introduction

Taco Pinwheels are a fun and flavorful appetizer that’s perfect for parties or casual gatherings. These creamy, cheesy rolled snacks combine classic taco flavors in a bite-sized form that’s easy to make and enjoy.

Ingredients

• 8 oz cream cheese
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup black olives, sliced
• 4 green onions, thinly sliced
• 5 flour tortillas (8-inch)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a bowl, blend together the cream cheese, sour cream, and taco seasoning until smooth and thoroughly combined.
2. Step 2: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, sliced black olives, and thinly sliced green onions until evenly mixed.
3. Step 3: Spread the mixture evenly over each of the 5 tortillas, leaving about a ½ inch border around the edges.
4. Step 4: Roll each tortilla tightly into a log shape.
5. Step 5: Place the rolled tortillas in the refrigerator for at least one hour to set before slicing.
6. Step 6: Remove from the fridge, trim the ends, and slice each log into approximately 1-inch pinwheels.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add chopped cilantro or a dash of hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture.
• Swap black olives for diced jalapeños if you prefer some heat.
• Use whole wheat or flavored tortillas to add variety and nutrition.
• Make ahead and refrigerate overnight for even better flavor melding.

Storage

Store leftover taco pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best taste, enjoy them chilled or let them sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving. They do not reheat well, so it’s best to serve cold or at room temperature.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, chilling the pinwheels for at least an hour helps them hold their shape and improves the flavor. You can prepare them the day before your event and store them covered in the refrigerator.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely. While cheddar works well for its sharpness, you can substitute with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for different flavor profiles.

Taco Pinwheels Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 138 reviews

Taco Pinwheels are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer featuring a creamy taco-flavored spread rolled inside soft flour tortillas. Perfect for parties or snack time, these bite-sized pinwheels combine cream cheese, sour cream, cheddar cheese, black olives, and green onions with flavorful taco seasoning for a zesty, crowd-pleasing treat.

• Author: Rita
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 30 pinwheels 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Mexican
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Filling

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or equivalent homemade taco seasoning)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup black olives, sliced
• 4 green onions, thinly sliced

Wrap

• 5 8-inch flour tortillas

Instructions

1. Prepare the filling: In a medium bowl, blend together the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and taco seasoning until the mixture is smooth and all ingredients are well combined.
2. Add mix-ins: Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, sliced black olives, and thinly sliced green onions, mixing thoroughly until evenly distributed throughout the filling.
3. Assemble the pinwheels: Lay out each 8-inch flour tortilla and spread an even layer of the prepared filling over the surface, leaving about a ½ inch border around the edge to prevent overflow when rolling.
4. Roll and chill: Tightly roll up each tortilla into a log shape, then place the rolled tortillas in the refrigerator for at least one hour to allow them to firm up and make slicing easier.
5. Slice and serve: Remove the rolls from the fridge, trim off the ends to create neat edges, and cut each roll into approximately 1-inch thick pinwheels. Arrange them on a platter for serving.

Notes

• Make sure the cream cheese is softened to make blending easier and to achieve a smooth filling.
• Chilling the rolled tortillas helps the pinwheels hold their shape when sliced.
• You can customize the filling by adding cooked ground beef or beans for a heartier appetizer.
• For a low-fat alternative, use reduced-fat cream cheese and sour cream.
• Serve with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for dipping.

Keywords: Taco Pinwheels, appetizer, party food, tortilla roll-ups, creamy dip, finger food, Mexican-inspired snacks