Name: Irresistible Antojitos: Cheesy Mexican Appetizers in 30 Min
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 6 pieces Flour Tortillas (10 inches in size); 8 oz Cream Cheese (softened); 4 oz Diced Green Chilies (canned or fresh jalapeños); 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (shredded); ½ cup Red Onion (finely diced); ½ cup Bell Pepper (finely diced); 3 tablespoons Sour Cream; ½ cup Sour Cream (for sauce); 1 teaspoon Paprika; 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder; ½ teaspoon Onion Powder; ⅛ teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (or adjust to taste)

As I brushed past the vibrant stalls at the bustling market, the scent of warm tortillas filled the air, pulling me in like a gentle embrace. That’s when I first discovered antojitos—those irresistible Mexican street food appetizers that had me hooked instantly. Packed with creamy goodness and colorful veggies wrapped in a soft tortilla, these cheesy delights are not only super quick to prepare but also easily customizable to suit any taste—making them a perfect crowd-pleaser for any gathering. With my recipe for Cheesy Mexican Antojitos, you can whip up a delicious batch in under 30 minutes, freeing you from the chains of takeout. Are you ready to bring a bit of Mexico to your kitchen and enjoy these delightful snacks?

Why Are Antojitos So Irresistible?

Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes of your time, you can have these delicious antojitos ready to serve, making them perfect for unexpected guests or last-minute snacking.

Customization: Tailor the filling with your favorite ingredients, whether spicy jalapeños or extra cheese, ensuring everyone at the table will find something they love.

Cheesy Indulgence: Each bite is filled with creamy satisfaction from the cream cheese and cheddar, creating a rich and flavorful experience.

Perfect for Sharing: These bite-sized delights are great for social occasions, easily served as an appetizer at your next gathering.

Home-Cooked Goodness: You’ll feel great about trading takeout for these homemade snacks, packed with fresh ingredients and customizable flavors.

For more quick and easy recipes, explore our other appetizers.

Antojitos Ingredient List

For the Tortillas
• Flour Tortillas – the base for the antojitos, ensure they are 10 inches in size for the perfect wrap.

For the Filling
• Cream Cheese – provides creaminess and helps bind the filling; use 8 oz, softened for the best texture.
• Diced Green Chilies – adds flavor and a slight kick; opt for 4 oz canned variety, or substitute with fresh jalapeños for extra spice.
• Cheddar Cheese – offers rich cheesy flavor and melty texture; you’ll need 1 cup, shredded.
• Red Onion – contributes sweetness and crunch; use ½ cup, finely diced for balanced flavor.
• Bell Pepper – adds freshness and color; ½ cup, finely diced works wonderfully.
• Sour Cream – enhances creaminess of the filling and pairs impeccably with the dipping sauce; use 3 tablespoons plus ½ cup for sauce.

For Seasoning
• Paprika – adds depth of flavor and a hint of smokiness; 1 teaspoon will elevate your dish.
• Garlic Powder – infuses the filling with savory notes; use 1 teaspoon for a rich taste.
• Onion Powder – enhances overall flavor profile; adding ½ teaspoon helps round it out.
• Cayenne Pepper – adds heat; use ⅛ teaspoon or adjust to taste for your preferred level of spice.

These incredible antojitos come together quickly to create a tasty treat that you and your loved ones will enjoy!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Antojitos

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the antojitos from sticking. This step is essential to ensure your cheesy Mexican antojitos bake evenly and get that lovely golden exterior.

Step 2: Make the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, diced green chilies, shredded cheddar cheese, finely diced red onion, and bell pepper. Add in the sour cream, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix thoroughly until you achieve a smooth and colorful filling, which brings the essence of antojitos to life.

Step 3: Assemble the Antojitos
Grab a flour tortilla and spread an even layer of the prepared filling across it. Roll the tortilla tightly, ensuring the filling is enclosed. Once completed, slice each roll diagonally at a 45-degree angle to create five bite-sized pieces. Repeat this process until all tortillas are filled and rolled.

Step 4: Bake the Antojitos
Arrange the sliced antojitos on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart for even cooking. Place them in the oven and bake for about 8 minutes. This initial bake allows the fillings to meld while the tortillas start to crisp up, creating that perfect texture.

Step 5: Broil for a Crunchy Finish
After baking, switch your oven to the broiler setting. Broil the antojitos for an additional 5 minutes, keeping a close eye on them. You want them to reach a beautiful golden brown and develop a satisfying crunch. This step really elevates the flavor and texture of your antojitos!

Step 6: Serve with Dipping Sauce
Once golden brown, remove the antojitos from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes. Serve warm with a side of pesto sour cream for dipping, enhancing the flavors of your cheesy Mexican antojitos. The creamy sauce adds richness and is the perfect complement to the delightful crunch.

Variations & Substitutions for Antojitos

Get ready to unleash your creativity in the kitchen and transform these antojitos into something uniquely yours!

Spicy Option: Add diced jalapeños instead of green chilies for an extra kick. Let the heat awaken your taste buds!
Vegetarian Delight: Incorporate finely chopped spinach or mushrooms into the filling. These additions not only boost flavor, but add delightful texture.
Hearty Addition: Mixing in cooked shredded chicken will make these antojitos more filling and satisfying. Perfect for a more substantial snack or meal!
Cheese Lovers: Swap regular cheddar for pepper jack cheese to amp up the cheesy flavor and add a hint of spice. Your cheese-loving friends will thank you!
Refried Beans: Consider spreading a layer of refried beans on the tortillas before adding the filling for added richness. This brings a beautiful creaminess and heartiness to the antojitos.
Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika instead of regular for a deeper, charred taste that will transport you to the streets of Mexico. The aroma alone is worth it!
Healthier Swap: For a lighter version, try using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream in the filling and dipping sauce. It’s tangy and protein-packed!
Garnish Ideas: Top finished antojitos with fresh cilantro or diced tomatoes for a burst of freshness and color that’s sure to impress. It’s a small touch that makes a big difference!

Feel free to explore and adapt these variations! And if you’re looking to serve them alongside something delightful, consider pairing these antojitos with a refreshing green salad or a zesty tomato salsa to enhance the flavor harmony in your meal. Your family and friends will love you for it!

What to Serve with Cheesy Mexican Antojitos

Looking to elevate your gathering with a delightful spread that perfectly complements these cheesy bites?

Zesty Guacamole: Its smooth-and-creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the crispy antojitos, enhancing flavor with fresh avocado goodness.
Pico de Gallo: A fresh salsa bursting with chopped tomatoes, onions, and cilantro that adds a refreshing zing to your bite.
Spicy Black Bean Salad: Packed with protein and flavor, this salad offers a hearty balance that pairs well with the rich antojitos.

Imagine the vibrant colors of the dish and how the refreshing salad cuts through the richness of the cheese, creating a perfect harmony at your table.

Crisp Green Salad: A side of mixed greens drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette brings a light, refreshing crunch that beautifully balances the richness of the antojitos.
Sweet Corn Elote: Creamy, cheesy, and slightly spicy, this Mexican street corn adds a comforting sweetness that enhances the overall experience.
Pineapple Agua Fresca: A cool, fruity drink that refreshes the palate after each cheesy bite, making your meal even more enjoyable.

With these delightful pairings, your cheesy Mexican antojitos will surely shine as the star of the meal!

How to Store and Freeze Antojitos

Fridge: Store leftover antojitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for a quick snack.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual antojitos tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating: To enjoy the antojitos again, reheat them in the oven at 350ºF for about 10 minutes, or until warm and crispy. Microwaving is also an option but may result in a softer texture.

Serving Temperature: Always serve antojitos warm to enhance their cheesy goodness and delightful crunch.

Make Ahead Options

These delicious antojitos are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the filling mixture up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain its creamy texture and flavor. Simply mix the cream cheese, green chilies, cheddar, onions, bell pepper, sour cream, and spices, then store it until you’re ready to roll. When you’re set to serve, spread the filling on the tortillas, roll them up, and bake as directed. This lets you enjoy fresh, cheesy antojitos with minimal effort on busy weeknights, delivering restaurant-quality results right at home!

Expert Tips for Antojitos

Monitor Broiling Time: Keep a watchful eye when broiling; ovens can vary significantly in heat, and you want these antojitos to be perfectly golden, not burnt.
Cooling Period: Let the antojitos cool for a few minutes before serving. This not only enhances the flavor but makes handling easier and prevents burns.
Flavor Boost: For a richer taste, consider prepping the filling a day in advance and refrigerating it. The time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making the antojitos even more delicious.
Substitutions: Feel free to experiment! Swap green chilies for jalapeños or piquillo peppers to cater to your taste. Customizing the filling can make your antojitos uniquely yours.
Serving Size: Be mindful of portion sizes; these cheesy bites can be quite addictive! Adjust the number of tortillas based on the number of guests to prevent excess leftovers.

Antojitos Recipe FAQs

What type of tortillas work best for antojitos?
The best tortillas for antojitos are flour tortillas, specifically 10 inches in size. They provide the ideal base for wrapping the delicious filling while being pliable enough to hold all the goodness inside without tearing.

How should I store leftover antojitos?
Store any leftover antojitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This method ensures they stay fresh. I recommend reheating them in the oven at 350ºF for about 10 minutes to regain that delicious crunch.

Can I freeze antojitos?
Absolutely! To freeze antojitos, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350ºF until heated through.

What if my filling is too runny?
If you find your antojito filling is too runny, try adding a bit more cream cheese or shredded cheese to thicken it up. Another option is to refrigerate the filling for about 30 minutes, which can help firm it up before using it in your tortillas.

Are antojitos suitable for vegetarians?
Yes! Antojitos can easily be made vegetarian by using ingredients like finely chopped spinach or mushrooms instead of meat. You can also add more veggies to the filling for additional flavor and texture without sacrificing taste.

How do I know when they are perfectly baked?
You’ll know your antojitos are perfectly baked when they have a lovely golden-brown exterior after broiling. Keep a close eye on them, as baking takes about 8 minutes, and broiling about 5 minutes. Let them cool for a couple of minutes before serving to allow the flavors to develop.