Mexican Pick-Ups
Cream cheese and cheddar blend with green chilies and chives, wrapped in tortillas and served with tangy picante sauce, perfect for parties and snack lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cream cheese, sour cream, grated Cheddar cheese, lemon juice, chopped chives, drained chopped green chilies, and chopped green onions.
- Heat tortillas according to package directions.
- Spread some of the cheese mixture on each tortilla.
- Roll up the tortillas and refrigerate for several hours.
- Cut each roll into 5 bite-sized pieces.
- Secure each piece with a toothpick.
- Serve with picante sauce for dipping.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or using pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar. If you're short on time, store-bought tortilla wraps can be used. Experiment with different herbs like cilantro instead of chives for a fresh flavor. This dish can also be made vegetarian by ensuring all ingredients are meat-free. For a creamy dip, serve alongside Hot Cheesy Salsa Dip.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these bites as an appetizer at parties or gatherings, pairing them with a zesty picante sauce for dipping. They are also a great addition to a game day spread alongside Cold Taco Salad or Creamy Taco Dip. For added color, garnish with fresh cilantro or lime wedges before serving.
Storage & Reheating
These Mexican Pick-Ups can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pieces on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will help maintain their texture without making them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Pick-Ups contains roughly 397 calories, with 20g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (211% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (138% of the Daily Value), and calcium (50% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 619mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cheese mixture and roll the tortillas a day in advance. Just make sure to refrigerate them tightly wrapped in plastic wrap. This allows the flavors to meld and makes for a quick appetizer option when you're ready to serve.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute for cream cheese, providing a similar tang without the extra fat. Another alternative is to use a dairy-free cream cheese if you have dietary restrictions, keeping the recipe deliciously creamy.
How do I make these gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply swap out the flour tortillas for gluten-free tortillas available at most grocery stores. Ensure all other ingredients, such as the picante sauce, are certified gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy this tasty treat!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).