Name: Mouthwatering Antojitos: Easy, Cheesy Mexican Appetizers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces Flour Tortillas (or gluten-free corn tortillas); 8 oz Cream Cheese (softened); 1 can Diced Green Chilies (or jalapeños for more heat); 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (shredded, or mozzarella/vegan cheese); 1/2 cup Red Onion (finely chopped, or green onions); 1 cup Bell Pepper (chopped, or poblano for richer flavor); 1/2 cup Sour Cream (or Greek yogurt); 1 teaspoon Paprika (smoked paprika for an exciting twist); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder; 1 teaspoon Onion Powder; 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne (omit for milder taste)

As I strolled through the vibrant streets of Mexico, the aroma of sizzling peppers and melting cheese wafted through the air, beckoning me to indulge in the delightful world of Antojitos. These scrumptious Mexican street food appetizers—meaning “little cravings”—are ridiculously easy to whip up at home and perfect for satisfying that snack attack. In just under 30 minutes, you can transform simple ingredients into crispy, creamy bites that are sure to impress your friends and family. What’s even better? They’re customizable to suit your taste buds, allowing you to play with flavors and spice levels. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a quick snack, these easy cheesy Antojitos will become your new go-to recipe. So, are you ready to embark on a delicious flavor adventure?

Why Are Antojitos So Irresistible?

Crispy Delight: These antojitos are perfectly crispy on the outside while bursting with creamy, cheesy goodness inside. Quick Preparation: Whip them up in under 30 minutes, making them ideal for unexpected guests or last-minute cravings. Customizable Flavors: Experiment with different peppers, cheeses, and spices to tailor them to your taste. Party-Ready: Serve them warm with basil pesto sour cream, and watch them disappear at gatherings. Cultural Joy: Enjoy a taste of authentic Mexican street food right from your kitchen—your friends will think you’re a culinary genius!

Antojitos Ingredients

A quick list of what you’ll need!

For the Filling

Flour Tortillas – The perfect wrap for these Antojitos; gluten-free corn tortillas work great too!
Cream Cheese – Adds creamy texture and binds the filling; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
Diced Green Chilies – Infuses flavor with a mild heat; substitute with jalapeños if you prefer extra spice!
Cheddar Cheese – Delivers that luscious cheesy flavor; try mozzarella or vegan cheese for something different.
Red Onion – Provides a crunchy contrast and sharpness; swap for green onions for a milder kick.
Bell Pepper – Adds sweetness and color to the mix; poblano is a tasty alternative for a richer flavor.
Sour Cream – For extra richness in the filling and as a dip; Greek yogurt can lighten it up if you’re watching calories.
Paprika – Elevates the flavor with a hint of smokiness; smoked paprika can add an exciting twist.
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder – These seasonings deepen the taste; fresh versions can be used but adjust to your liking.
Cayenne – Gives a spicy kick; feel free to omit if you want to keep things mild.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Antojitos

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will create a non-stick surface for your antojitos. While the oven is heating, it’s a perfect time to gather all your ingredients and prepare your workspace, ensuring everything is ready for assembly.

Step 2: Make the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, diced green chilies, shredded cheddar cheese, finely chopped red onion, and bell pepper. Then, stir in sour cream, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne for a flavor boost. Mix until the filling is smooth and well-blended. You want the mixture to have a creamy texture that’s easy to spread across the tortillas.

Step 3: Assemble the Antojitos
Spread an equal amount of the savory filling onto each tortilla, ensuring to cover them fully. Tightly roll each tortilla from one edge to the other, forming a log shape. The tightness of the roll is essential—this will help keep the filling intact when baking. Once rolled, place the tortillas seam side down to secure the filling.

Step 4: Slice the Rolls
Using a sharp knife, cut each roll into five bite-sized pieces at a 45-degree angle, discarding the ends. This shape will help the antojitos cook evenly and create appealing bite-sized pieces perfect for snacking. Take your time with this step to ensure uniformity, which will help with presentation.

Step 5: Bake the Antojitos
Arrange the cut antojitos on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart for even cooking. Bake in your preheated oven for 8 minutes until they start to turn golden. Then, switch your oven to high broil and let them broil for an additional 5 minutes, keeping a close eye on them to avoid burning. They should be crispy and lightly browned.

Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the antojitos from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes. This waiting time will allow the filling to set slightly. Serve warm alongside a bowl of creamy basil pesto sour cream for dipping—perfect for enjoying the delicious flavors of these easy cheesy antojitos!

What to Serve with Easy Cheesy Antojitos?

Elevate your antojitos experience with delightful side dishes and drinks that complement each flavorful bite.

Creamy Guacamole: The rich creaminess of freshly made guacamole pairs beautifully, adding a burst of flavor and a cooling effect. Scoop it up with antojitos for a heavenly bite!
Spicy Salsa Fresca: A zesty salsa fresca adds fresh tomatoes, onions, and cilantro for a refreshing contrast to the cheesy richness of the antojitos. Serve it on the side for a bright pop!
Crispy Nachos: Load up a plate of crispy nachos topped with jalapeños and cheese for a shareable snack that keeps the party going. They mingle wonderfully with the flavors of your antojitos.
Elote (Mexican Street Corn): This sweet and savory grilled corn topped with cheese and chili powder brings a vibrant and satisfying element to your meal. Elote complements the spices in the antojitos perfectly!
Chilled Mexican Beer: A crisp lager or light beer enhances the flavors of these savory snacks, making your experience refreshing. The bubbles cut through the creaminess of the antojitos.
Horchata: This sweet and creamy rice drink is perfect for balancing the spiciness of the antojitos and offers a delightful flavor contrast. Enjoy a glass alongside for an authentic touch!
Sweet Churros: End your meal on a sweet note with churros dusted with cinnamon sugar. Their crispy exterior and soft interior provide a comforting finish to your flavorful experience.
Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with a citrus dressing can cleanse the palate and add a fresh crunch to the meal. Include avocado slices for a creamy element that lingers on your taste buds.

With these delightful pairing options, you’ll create a memorable meal that celebrates the vibrant flavors of your homemade antojitos!

Make Ahead Options

These Antojitos are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance by mixing cream cheese, green chilies, cheddar cheese, red onion, bell pepper, sour cream, and spices in a bowl, then refrigerate the mixture in an airtight container. This not only saves you time on busy weeknights, but it also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, simply spread the prepared filling onto the tortillas, roll them up, slice, and bake as directed. Remember, the key is to bake shortly before serving for that freshly crispy texture, ensuring they’re just as delicious as if made fresh!

Expert Tips for Antojitos

Watch the Broil: Keep a close eye on the antojitos while broiling to prevent burning; the high heat can cook them quickly.
Prep Ahead: Consider making the filling the day before to let the flavors meld; just wait to bake them until serving day for the best texture.
Used Serrated Knife: A serrated knife works wonders for cutting the rolled tortillas cleanly without squeezing out the delicious filling.
Adjust Spice Levels: Make it your own by experimenting with different peppers; swap in jalapeños or habaneros for more heat or leave cayenne out for milder antojitos.
Storage Tip: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheat them in the oven for that crispiness.

How to Store and Freeze Antojitos

Fridge: Store leftover antojitos in an airtight container for up to 4 days to maintain freshness. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze antojitos in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 2 months.

Reheating: To enjoy your frozen antojitos, bake them straight from the freezer at 350ºF (175ºC) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy.

Defrosting: If desired, thaw antojitos in the fridge overnight before reheating to speed up the process.

Antojitos: Flavorful Twists Await!

Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize these antojitos to make them uniquely yours!

Spicy Kick: Swap diced green chilies for jalapeños or habaneros to turn up the heat significantly. Your taste buds will thrill at each bite!
Heartier Filling: Add shredded chicken or black beans for a protein boost. This twist transforms your snacks into a more satisfying meal.
Cheese Blends: Experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for a different flavor profile. Each cheese brings its own charm!
Sweet & Spicy: Toss in some roasted corn or sweet red pepper for a hint of sweetness paired with the savory filling. This makes for a delightful textural contrast.
Vegan Option: Use cashew cream instead of cream cheese, and opt for nutritional yeast to give that cheesy flavor without dairy. Delicious can be plant-based!
Smokesubstitutes: Replace regular paprika with smoked paprika to add a rich, smoky depth. It’s a flavor adventure waiting to happen!
Fishy Flair: Add canned tuna or crab meat for a novel seafood twist. This unexpected variation elevates traditional antojitos to a whole new level.
Tex-Mex Style: Incorporate taco seasoning or cilantro into the filling for an extra flavor burst reminiscent of your favorite taco night. It’s an instant fiesta!

Remember, adjusting the ingredients lets you explore culinary creativity. Want to take your antojitos further? Try pairing them with delicious salsa or a zesty guacamole for a fresh side that’s sure to impress!

Antojitos Recipe FAQs

What type of tortillas should I use for antojitos?
You can use flour tortillas as the base for wrapping the delicious filling. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, corn tortillas work beautifully as well. Both options deliver a delightful texture to your antojitos!

How should I store leftover antojitos?
Absolutely! Store leftover antojitos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This keeps them fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat them in the oven at 350ºF (175ºC) for about 10 minutes for that perfect crispiness.

Can I freeze antojitos? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze antojitos! First, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and label it with the date. They’ll stay good for up to 2 months.

What’s the best way to reheat frozen antojitos?
When you’re ready to indulge, bake them straight from the freezer at 350ºF (175ºC) for about 15-20 minutes. This method ensures they get nice and crispy again! If you prefer, you can thaw them in the fridge overnight first, which speeds up the reheating process.

Are there any common troubleshooting tips for making antojitos?
Very! If your antojitos are too soggy, make sure to drain any excess liquid from ingredients like chilies and sour cream before mixing. Also, ensure your cream cheese is softened for smooth blending, and watch them closely while broiling to avoid burning. Lastly, cutting uniform pieces will help with even cooking.

Can I customize antojitos for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! You can easily customize these antojitos to meet dietary needs. Substitute dairy cheese with a vegan cheese alternative, and use gluten-free tortillas for a gluten-free version. Just keep in mind your choice of fillings; using fresh veggies or lean proteins can make it a nutritious treat!