Name: Irresistible Cheesy Antojitos You'll Crave Again and Again
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 13 min
Total time: 23 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces Flour Tortillas (10-inch tortillas are ideal for rolling); 8 oz Cream Cheese (softened); 1 can Diced Green Chilies (or fresh jalapeños for extra heat); 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (can mix with Monterey Jack); 1/2 cup Red Onion (diced); 1 each Bell Pepper (any color); 1/2 cup Sour Cream (or Greek yogurt); 1 tsp Paprika (smoked paprika for extra flavor); 1 tsp Garlic Powder; 1 tsp Onion Powder; 1/4 tsp Cayenne (to taste); 1/2 cup Basil Pesto (store-bought or homemade)

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The aroma of sizzling cheese and spices fills the air as I unwrap another Mexican street food treasure: antojitos. These little cravings, bursting with gooey goodness, are the perfect crowd-pleaser for any gathering. What I adore about these Cheesy Mexican Antojitos is how effortlessly they come together in under 30 minutes, allowing even the busiest home-chefs to impress their guests. Filled with creamy cheese and zesty ingredients, they pair perfectly with a refreshing basil pesto dipping sauce, making every bite irresistible. Whether you’re entertaining or just treating yourself, these delightful appetizers will not only satisfy your taste buds but also awaken your culinary creativity. Ready to dive into a cheesy delight that’s sure to bring everyone to the table? Let’s get cooking!

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Why are Antojitos a Must-Try?

Quick and Easy: These antojitos come together in just under 30 minutes, making them ideal for spontaneous gatherings or weeknight snacks.

Cheesy Goodness: Each bite is filled with a delightful mix of creamy cheeses and flavorful spices that ooze out when you take a bite.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Perfect for impressing guests, their unique blend of flavors appeals to both kids and adults alike, ensuring everyone keeps coming back for more.

Customization: Feel free to make them your own by substituting ingredients based on your pantry—whether you prefer milder cheese or spicier peppers, the options are endless!

Serve with Style: Pair them with your favorite dips like salsa or guacamole for an added flair, ensuring your appetizer spread is as impressive as it is delicious. Whether entertaining or enjoying a cozy night in, these Cheesy Mexican Antojitos with Pesto Dipping Sauce are bound to become a staple in your cooking repertoire.

Antojitos Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need to create these delightful cheesy bites!

For the Filling

Flour Tortillas – A sturdy base for the antojitos; 10-inch tortillas make rolling easy.
Cream Cheese – Brings a rich, creamy texture; be sure it’s softened for smooth mixing.
Diced Green Chilies – Adds a mild kick; feel free to substitute with fresh jalapeños for extra heat.
Cheddar Cheese – Melts beautifully and adds a rich flavor; mix with Monterey Jack for variety.
Red Onion – Enhances the filling with a splash of savory crunch; sweet onion can provide a milder taste.
Bell Pepper – Contributes sweetness and color; any color works, so use what you have on hand.
Sour Cream – Adds tanginess and creaminess; substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Paprika – Infuses a lovely smoky flavor; smoked paprika can elevate the taste even further.
Garlic Powder – Brings aromatic depth; fresh garlic will give you an even stronger flavor punch.
Onion Powder – Complements the red onion’s flavor.
Cayenne – Offers a spicy kick; adjust to your heat preference.

For the Dipping Sauce

Basil Pesto – Perfect for dipping, it adds a vibrant herbal note; whether store-bought or homemade, it pairs wonderfully with these antojitos.

Get ready to savor the mouthwatering taste of homemade antojitos that will instantly whisk you away to the streets of Mexico!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Mexican Antojitos with Pesto Dipping Sauce

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This step creates a perfect, non-stick environment for your delicious antojitos, ensuring they come out crispy and golden.

Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, diced green chilies, cheddar cheese, red onion, bell pepper, sour cream, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne. Using an electric mixer, blend all the ingredients until smooth and creamy, which will take about 2–3 minutes. The aromatic filling should have a well-combined consistency, enticing you with its savory scent.

Step 3: Prepare the Tortillas
Lay your flour tortillas on a clean, flat surface. Divide the cheese filling into four equal portions and spread each evenly across the tortillas, making sure to leave a slight border. Roll each tortilla tightly, starting from one end, so the filling is securely wrapped inside. This technique will help create deliciously cheesy antojitos that stay intact while baking.

Step 4: Cut the Rolls
Using a serrated knife, carefully slice each rolled tortilla diagonally at a 45-degree angle into five equal pieces. Each antojito should be about 1.5 inches wide. This cutting style not only makes them visually appealing but also allows for even cooking and easier dipping into your pesto sauce.

Step 5: Bake the Antojitos
Place the sliced antojitos on the lined baking sheet, spacing them evenly apart. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 8 minutes, until they start to turn golden. Then, switch your oven to high broil for an additional 5 minutes, but keep a close eye on them to avoid burning. The tops should be crispy and lightly browned, indicating they’re ready to be devoured.

Step 6: Serve with Pesto
Once baked, take the antojitos out of the oven and let them cool for a minute or two. Serve these cheesy Mexican antojitos warm, alongside a bowl of fresh basil pesto for dipping. The creamy filling paired with zesty pesto creates a delightful explosion of flavors that’s irresistible!

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Expert Tips for Cheesy Antojitos

Watch the Broiling: Keep a close watch while broiling; antojitos can burn quickly if left unattended for even a minute.
Prep Ahead: For enhanced flavor, prepare the filling a day ahead, allowing the spices to meld beautifully overnight.
Store Leftovers: Leftover antojitos can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat in the oven for crispness!
Mix Up the Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a unique, flavorful twist on your antojitos.
Fresh Ingredients Count: Use fresh ingredients when possible. Fresh garlic and onions elevate the overall flavor of these cheesy bites!
Perfect Dipping Sauce: Don’t skip the pesto! It adds a fresh herbal note that beautifully complements the rich cheese in your antojitos.

Make Ahead Options

These scrumptious Antojitos are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the filling and roll the tortillas up up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow all the steps until you slice the rolls, then tightly wrap them in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out. When you’re ready to serve, just pop them in the oven, bake for your initial time, and finish with broiling for crispy perfection. This method helps maintain the cheesy goodness, and you’ll have delicious antojitos ready with minimal effort on busy weeknights! Enjoy the time-saving benefits while indulging in these crowd-pleasing bites!

Antojitos: Flavorful Customization Options

Make these delicious antojitos truly your own by exploring unique variations and substitutions!

Spicy Kick: Jalapeños or Habaneros: Swap diced green chilies for fresh jalapeños or habaneros to turn up the heat and flavor!
Different Cheeses: Pepper Jack or Mozzarella: Try substituting Cheddar with Pepper Jack or Mozzarella for distinct tastes and textures that will surprise your palate.
Protein Up: Shredded Chicken: Add shredded chicken or even black beans to the filling for an extra protein boost, enhancing both texture and taste.
Greener Option: Spinach or Kale: Throw in some sautéed spinach or kale for a nutritious twist that contributes a lovely green hue and vibrant flavor.
Diverse Dips: Salsa or Guacamole: Serve with a side of salsa or fresh guacamole instead of pesto for a delightful variation that showcases classic Mexican flavors.
Cheesy Variety: Cream Cheese & Goat Cheese Mix: Consider mixing cream cheese with tangy goat cheese for a more sophisticated flavor that melts wonderfully.
Sweet & Savory: Corn or Sweet Peppers: Incorporate sweet corn kernels or roasted red peppers into your filling for a hint of sweetness and extra color.
Herb Infusion: Fresh Herbs: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to the filling for an aromatic boost that brightens the overall taste.

Making these antojitos your own means each time you prepare them, it can be a new culinary adventure! For even more variety, consider serving them alongside a homemade salsa recipe or experimenting with different dipping sauces like my Zesty Avocado Cream. Enjoy the journey!

Storage Tips for Antojitos

Room Temperature: Keep undipped antojitos at room temperature for a maximum of 2 hours. After that, store them in the fridge to maintain freshness.

Fridge: Store leftover antojitos in an airtight container for up to 4 days. They taste best when reheated in the oven to regain their crispiness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze baked antojitos for up to 3 months. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer bag.

Reheating: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10–15 minutes, or until heated through, ensuring that they retain their delightful cheesy goodness.

What to Serve with Cheesy Mexican Antojitos

Create a vibrant meal that excites the senses and delights the palate with these delicious pairings.

Fresh Guacamole: Creamy and rich, guacamole adds a cooling contrast to the cheesy heat of the antojitos, enhancing every bite. It’s like a celebration of flavors happening right on your plate!
Zesty Salsa: This tangy, fresh tomato salsa brings a punch of flavor that cuts through the richness of the cheese and pesto, ensuring no bite is ever dull. Pair it alongside for refreshing bursts of taste!
Mexican Street Corn: Soft and sweet, this classic side dish offers a delightful charred flavor that complements the cheesy antojitos beautifully. Its creamy topping adds a texture that guests will love!
Crisp Salad: A light, leafy salad tossed with a zesty lime dressing provides the perfect crunch and freshness that balances the cheesy indulgence of the antojitos. Think of it as a palate cleanser amidst the flavors.
Spicy Refried Beans: Earthy and savory, they add a hearty element that pairs perfectly with the crispy antojitos, rounding out the meal. Scoop them up alongside the main attraction for a true treat!
Margaritas: A chilled margarita, with its bright lime flavor and refreshing zing, offers a delightful way to sip alongside these appetizers. The acidity cuts through the richness, making each sip as rewarding as the last bite!
Churros with Chocolate Sauce: For a sweet ending, serve crispy churros, dusted in cinnamon sugar with a side of rich chocolate sauce. Their warm sweetness contrasts deliciously with the cheesy spiciness of the antojitos.
Iced Horchata: This creamy rice drink, lightly sweetened, provides a refreshing sip that perfectly complements the savory flavors, cooling the palate in the most delightful way.

Each item brings a unique texture or flavor that harmonizes beautifully with antojitos, creating a memorable dining experience that your family or guests will cherish!

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Antojitos Recipe FAQs

What type of tortillas should I use for antojitos?
I recommend using 10-inch flour tortillas for the best results as they are sturdy enough for rolling and can hold the gooey filling without breaking apart. However, you can also opt for corn tortillas if you prefer a gluten-free option, but be gentle while rolling as they can be more fragile.

How long can I store leftover antojitos?
Leftover antojitos can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Just reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness before serving again. They are best enjoyed fresh, but they’ll still taste delicious!

Can I freeze antojitos, and how?
Absolutely! To freeze baked antojitos, let them cool completely first. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

What should I do if my antojitos aren’t crispy?
If your antojitos come out soggy instead of crispy, a couple of tweaks can help next time. Ensure your filling isn’t too wet; you can drain any excess moisture from ingredients like sour cream or peppers before mixing. Additionally, make sure to bake them long enough and watch closely during the broiling step, as this creates the desired crispy exterior.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Great question! For those watching their caloric intake, each piece of antojitos contains around 106 calories, making them a relatively light snack. If you’re accommodating food allergies, be cautious with ingredients like dairy; you can substitute cream cheese with tofu-based cream cheese or use Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative. Always remember to check the packaging for cross-contamination warnings, especially if you’re cooking for pets or anyone with severe allergies.

How can I ensure my cheese filling is creamy and smooth?
To achieve that delightful creaminess in your cheese filling, make sure to soften your cream cheese beforehand. Leaving it out at room temperature for about 30 minutes before mixing helps achieve a smoother texture. When blending, use an electric mixer for about 2-3 minutes; this not only combines the ingredients well but also aerates them, making the filling lighter and fluffier!