Cheesy Mexican Pinwheels: The Perfect Bite for Any Gathering
These cheesy Mexican pinwheels are one of those crowd-pleasing appetizers that you’ll find yourself making over and over again. With layers of creamy cheese, bold fajita flavors, and a hint of spice from the salsa and green chiles, they deliver a fiesta of flavor in every bite! These are great appetizers for hosting a game night, preparing snacks for a party, or simply craving something tasty, these pinwheels are an easy yet delicious option.
I love a tasty, simple recipe that looks as good as it tastes. I love how the bright fiesta cheese, green chiles, and black olives create colorful swirls when the pinwheels are sliced. Plus, the best part? They’re make-ahead friendly, giving you one less thing to worry about when you’re busy getting ready to host.
Ready to whip up a batch of these delicious Mexican pinwheels? Let’s get started!
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Table of Contents
What You’ll Need to Make Cheesy Mexican Pinwheels
To make these cheesy Mexican pinwheels, you’ll need a handful of ingredients and a few simple tools. The creamy filling comes together in minutes using cream cheese, sour cream, and salsa, while fajita seasoning, green chiles, and black olives add a bold kick. Grab your tortillas, measuring cups, and a serrated knife, and you’ll be ready to roll—literally! Keep reading for the full ingredients list and step-by-step directions.
Ingredients (Servings: 24)
- 4 large burrito-size flour tortillas
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ⅓ cup sour cream
- ⅓ cup hot salsa
- 1.25 oz packet fajita seasoning
- 4 oz can diced green chiles, drained
- 1 cup fiesta blend cheese
- ½ cup chopped black olives
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Prepare the filling
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, salsa, and fajita seasoning. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
2. Spread the mixture
Divide the filling evenly among the four tortillas. Use a silicone spoon or offset spatula to spread the mixture all the way to the edges.
3. Add the toppings
Sprinkle the diced green chiles, fiesta blend cheese, and chopped black olives evenly over each tortilla.
4. Roll it up
Starting from one edge, tightly roll each tortilla into a log. Make sure the roll is snug to prevent the filling from falling out when slicing.
5. Chill and slice
Wrap each tortilla roll in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This helps the filling set and makes slicing easier. Once chilled, remove the plastic wrap and cut about 1 inch off each end (feel free to snack on those pieces!). Slice the remaining roll into 1-inch pinwheels using a large serrated knife.
6. Serve and enjoy
Arrange the pinwheels flat on a platter for a colorful presentation. Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Easy Ways to Customize Your Mexican Pinwheels
- Craving extra heat? Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper.
- Want more crunch? Try tossing in some finely chopped bell peppers or shredded lettuce.
- Looking for a meatier option? Add slices of turkey, ham, or pepperoni before rolling them up.
- Prefer a different cheese? Swap the fiesta blend for sharp cheddar, pepper jack, or Monterey Jack.
Feel free to get creative—customizing these pinwheels makes them even more fun to serve!
Storage Tips
Leftover pinwheels can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re making them ahead for a party, slice them just before serving to keep them looking fresh.
Roll Into Flavorful Fun
Cheesy Mexican pinwheels are proof that simple recipes can still wow a crowd. Whether you’re prepping for a holiday gathering, a casual get-together, or a laid-back snack night, these pinwheels bring bold flavors and a festive flair to the table. So go ahead—roll up some deliciousness and watch them disappear as soon as they hit the platter!
Looking for more irresistible appetizers to wow your guests? Try these next:
- Pepperoni Pizza Puffs – Bite-sized, cheesy, and loaded with pizza flavor! Perfect for any pizza lover.
- Creamy Dill Pickle Dip – Tangy, savory, and oh-so-addictive. Pair it with chips or veggies for the ultimate snack!
Remember, hosting isn’t about perfection; it’s about sharing good food, creating joyful memories, and savoring moments together.
Happy gathering!
Cheesy Mexican Pinwheels
Ingredients
- 4 large burrito size flour tortillas
- 4 oz cream cheese softened
- ⅓ cup sour cream
- ⅓ cup hot salsa
- 1.25 oz packet Fajita seasoning
- 4 oz can diced green chiles drained
- 1 cup fiesta blend cheese
- ½ cup chopped black olives
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix together the cream cheese, sour cream, salsa, and fajita seasoning.
- Divide the mixture between the 4 tortillas, and spread across them.
- Sprinkle the green chilies, cheese and black olives over the tortillas.
- Start from one end, and tightly roll the tortilla into itself, stopping when you reach the other end.
- Wrap the tortilla rolls in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 1 hour, or until ready to serve.
- Remove the tortillas from the plastic wrap, and cut 1 inches off each end (and eat or discard), then cut the remainder into 1 inch pieces.
- Arrange flat on a platter to serve.
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