There’s something undeniably captivating about the sights and smells wafting from a bustling Mexican street vendor, and today, I’m bringing that vibrant energy to your kitchen with these delicious Antojitos! Imagine sinking your teeth into crispy, golden bites that reveal a creamy, cheesy filling, bursting with flavors that dance on your palate. Perfect for any gathering, these savory appetizers require just 30 minutes from start to finish, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of friends and family.
To kick things up a notch, I’ve paired these delightful morsels with a luscious basil pesto dipping sauce that’s sure to impress even the most discerning food lovers. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or simply treating yourself after a long day, these Antojitos are not just a snack—they’re an invitation to savor the moment! Let’s dive into this quick and cheesy recipe that promises to satisfy your cravings and ignite your love for homemade flavors.
Why are Antojitos a Must-Try Snack?
Irresistible flavor: Packed with cheesy goodness and zesty spices, these Antojitos are a flavor explosion in every bite.
Quick prep time: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, they’re perfect for those spontaneous get-togethers or late-night snacks.
Crowd-pleaser: Ideal for parties, these bite-sized treats are sure to impress and keep your guests coming back for more.
Versatile delights: Feel free to customize your filling—add jalapenos for heat or even shredded chicken for a heartier option!
Effortless serving: Just bake, dip in the creamy basil pesto sauce, and watch them disappear! You’ll love how easy it is to make these at home, elevating your appetizer game to a whole new level.
Antojitos Ingredients
For the Filling
• Flour Tortillas – Provide the base for the filling; use 10″ tortillas for better handling.
• Cream Cheese – Adds creaminess and binds the filling; ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
• Diced Green Chilies – Introduces spicy flavor; canned or fresh works well; substitute with jalapeños for extra heat.
• Cheddar Cheese – Contributes to the cheesy taste and texture; consider using a blend of cheeses for varied flavor.
• Red Onion – Adds sweetness and crunch to the filling; shallots can be a milder alternative.
• Bell Pepper – Provides freshness and color; use any color or replace with diced jalapeños for added spice.
• Sour Cream – Enhances creaminess and balances flavors; Greek yogurt can be a good substitute.
• Paprika – Adds a smoky flavor; smoked paprika intensifies the taste.
• Garlic Powder – Infuses savory depth; fresh minced garlic can be used for a vibrant taste.
• Onion Powder – Complements other flavors; adjust based on your preference.
• Cayenne – Introduces heat; omit or reduce for milder flavors.
For the Dipping Sauce
• Basil Pesto – Elevates the dipping sauce flavor; any store-bought or homemade pesto works wonderfully.
How to Make Antojitos
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Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. This allows for easy cleanup later!
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Mix Filling: In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, diced green chilies, cheddar cheese, red onion, bell pepper, sour cream, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne. Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
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Assemble Tortillas: Take four flour tortillas and divide the cheese mixture evenly among them. Spread the filling in a line down the center of each tortilla, then roll them up tightly, enclosing the creamy goodness.
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Slice into Pieces: With a sharp knife, cut each rolled tortilla into five bite-sized pieces, slicing at a 45-degree angle to create appealing shapes for serving.
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Bake and Broil: Arrange the antojitos on the prepared baking sheet. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 8 minutes, then switch the oven to broil for an additional 5 minutes until they are golden brown and slightly melted.
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Serve with Sauce: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve these delicious antojitos warm, with a side of basil pesto mixed with sour cream for dipping.
Optional: Drizzle extra basil pesto over the top for a pop of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Antojitos
Fridge: Store leftover antojitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven for a crispy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, place rolled but uncut antojitos in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy frozen antojitos, bake directly from the freezer, increasing the baking time by about 5-10 minutes until heated through and golden.
Make Ahead Options
These Cheesy Antojitos are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the cream cheese, green chilies, cheddar, red onion, bell pepper, sour cream, and spices, then refrigerating it in an airtight container. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making them just as delicious when you bake later. When you’re ready to serve, simply spread the filling onto the tortillas, roll them up, slice, and bake as directed, adding about 2-3 minutes to the baking time if they come straight from the fridge. If you want to make them even earlier, you can roll and freeze the antojitos without slicing them; they’ll be ready to bake from frozen, ensuring that your gatherings are stress-free!
Expert Tips for Antojitos
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Use Softened Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is softened before mixing. This helps create a smooth filling that spreads easily in the tortillas.
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Watch the Broiler: Keep an eye on the antojitos while broiling. Ovens vary, and you don’t want to burn these delightful bites!
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Flavor Fusion: For deeper flavor, prepare the filling a day ahead and let it rest in the fridge. The spices will meld beautifully.
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Freezing Wonder: If you want to prep in advance, roll the tortillas without cutting. You can bake from frozen, adjusting the time for a perfect outcome.
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Customize Your Filling: Feel free to get creative! Add ingredients like cooked shredded chicken or extra spices to make your antojitos truly unique.
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Serving Suggestions: Pair the antojitos with a fresh salad or guacamole for a delightful meal. They’re versatile and perfect for any occasion!
Antojitos Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to explore the flavors and customize your antojitos with these fun modifications that will delight any palate.
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Spicy Switch: Use jalapeños instead of green chilies for an extra kick that will tantalize your taste buds!
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Hearty Addition: Mix in cooked shredded chicken for a satisfying filling that makes these bites even more filling.
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Veggie Delight: Substitute standard bell peppers with zucchini or spinach for a fresh twist that’s bursting with color.
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Cheesier Goodness: Experiment with pepper jack cheese for a creamier texture and a hint of spice to your filling.
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Nutty Flavor: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pistachios into the mix for an unexpected crunch that adds a delightful contrast.
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Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh cilantro or chives to elevate the flavor profile with a burst of freshness that complements the cheese beautifully.
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Creamy Swap: Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist that also amps up the protein!
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Zesty Dipping: Mix sriracha into your basil pesto sauce for a fiery kick, encouraging everyone to dip in and savor the heat.
These variations are just the beginning; let your creativity shine through as you prepare your antojitos!
What to Serve with Cheesy Antojitos with Basil Pesto Dipping Sauce?
Elevate your gathering with these delightful pairings that complement the cheesy goodness of your Antojitos perfectly!
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Crispy Fresh Salad: A light, refreshing salad tossed with citrus vinaigrette adds a crisp contrast to the warm, cheesy antojitos. The vibrant flavors will awaken your taste buds!
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Guacamole: The creamy, avocado goodness of guacamole balances the spiciness of the antojitos, creating a heavenly dip duo that your guests won’t be able to resist.
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Margaritas: A zesty margarita will elevate your gathering, enhancing the Mexican flair and providing a refreshing sip between bites of cheesy indulgence.
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Mexican Street Corn: This sweet, charred corn dish brings a smoky element that harmonizes beautifully with the cheesy antojitos, creating a wonderful, hearty side.
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Pico de Gallo: Fresh, zesty pico de gallo adds brightness and acidity that cuts through the richness of the cheese, giving every bite a burst of flavor.
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Spiced Rice: Fluffy, spiced rice is a comforting side dish that complements the texture of the antojitos while enhancing the overall Mexican dining experience.
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Churros: For dessert, serve crispy churros dusted with cinnamon sugar, offering a sweet finish that pairs beautifully with your savory antojitos.
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Mexican Hot Chocolate: Wrap up the meal with a warm cup of rich, velvety hot chocolate. Its sweetness is the perfect companion to the savory flavors of your appetizers.
Cheesy Antojitos with Basil Pesto Dipping Sauce Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best ingredients for my Antojitos?
Absolutely! When choosing your tortillas, opt for 10″ flour tortillas as they provide better handling. For the cream cheese, always ensure it’s softened for easy mixing. If you’re using green chilies, check for freshness if you’re selecting them fresh; you want vibrant color without dark spots. Finally, when picking your bell peppers, any color will do, but the ones without wrinkles or soft spots will guarantee freshness.
What’s the best way to store leftover Antojitos?
Very! Once cooled, store leftover antojitos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to regain that crispy texture. If you want to speed up the process, a microwave can work but may make them a bit soggier, so I recommend the oven for the best results.
Can I freeze my Antojitos for later?
Absolutely! To freeze, prepare the rolled tortillas but do not cut them. Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or wrap them in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them directly from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
What should I do if my filling is too thick or too runny?
Very good question! If your filling ends up too thick, you can mix in a little milk or sour cream (1 tablespoon at a time) until you reach the desired consistency. If it’s too runny, add a bit more cream cheese or shredded cheese to thicken it up. Make sure to blend well to achieve that creamy, cohesive filling that perfectly hugs the tortilla.
Are there any dietary considerations for my Antojitos?
Yes, definitely! For those with dairy allergies, consider substituting with non-dairy cheese and a plant-based sour cream alternative. Keep in mind that the spices can be adjusted for sensitivity; simply reduce or omit cayenne or paprika for a milder flavor. And if you’re concerned about pets, simply avoid feeding any leftovers to your furry friends, as ingredients like onions and garlic can be harmful to them.
Cheesy Antojitos with Basil Pesto for Home Party Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine softened cream cheese, diced green chilies, cheddar cheese, red onion, bell pepper, sour cream, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne. Blend until smooth.
- Take four flour tortillas and divide the cheese mixture evenly among them. Spread the filling in a line down the center, then roll them up tightly.
- Slice each rolled tortilla into five pieces at a 45-degree angle.
- Arrange the antojitos on the baking sheet. Bake for about 8 minutes, then broil for an additional 5 minutes until golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm with basil pesto mixed with sour cream.