These Cheesy Meat and Tortilla Roll-Ups are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s packed with savory flavors. The combination of minced meat, cheese, and spices, all wrapped up in tortillas, makes for a hearty meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner or a casual gathering, these roll-ups are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
Cuisine
This dish is inspired by Tex-Mex and comfort food cuisines, bringing together the deliciousness of spiced minced meat, cheese, and tortillas. It’s perfect for any meal of the day and can be customized to suit different tastes.
Full List of Ingredients
- 300 g minced meat (beef, chicken, or turkey)
- 2 eggs
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tsp sweet paprika
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 4 tortillas (flour or corn)
- 200 g mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2-3 spring onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1-2 tablespoons melted butter
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
1. Prepare the Minced Meat Mixture:
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced meat and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season the meat with salt, sweet paprika, black pepper, and a tablespoon of milk. Stir to combine and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the seasoning is well mixed. Remove from heat.
2. Prepare the Tortillas:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lay out the tortillas on a flat surface and spoon the cooked minced meat mixture evenly across each tortilla. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese and add a few chopped spring onions on top.
3. Roll Up the Tortillas:
- Carefully roll each tortilla into a tight cylinder, ensuring the filling stays inside. Place the rolled tortillas seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
4. Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the tortillas in the baking dish. You can also brush a little vegetable oil on the top for an extra crispy texture.
- Optionally, you can sprinkle some additional cheese on top if you prefer a cheesier result.
5. Bake the Roll-Ups:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the tortillas are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve:
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let them cool slightly. Slice the roll-ups into smaller portions and serve with a side of salsa, guacamole, or a fresh salad.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugars: 3 g
- Sodium: 500 mg
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
This recipe draws inspiration from classic Tex-Mex dishes that combine tortillas, spiced meat, and cheese. The convenience of rolling up the filling in tortillas and baking them makes this dish a favorite for easy weeknight meals, family dinners, or even as a party appetizer. The dish is versatile and can be made with different proteins, such as beef, chicken, or turkey.
Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe is great for busy nights when you want something tasty and satisfying.
- Hearty and Flavorful: The spiced minced meat combined with gooey melted cheese and soft tortillas creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
- Customizable: Feel free to add more vegetables, different cheeses, or even top it with your favorite salsa or sour cream.
- Kid-Friendly: The cheesy filling inside the soft tortillas makes this dish appealing to kids and adults alike.
Health Benefits
- Protein-Packed: The minced meat and eggs provide a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle building and repair.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Spring onions provide vitamins A and C, which support immune health, while the cheese offers calcium for strong bones and teeth.
- Moderate in Fat: This dish offers a balanced amount of fat, which is important for energy, and using olive oil and butter in moderation keeps the dish flavorful but not overly greasy.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Side Salad: Pair these roll-ups with a fresh salad, such as a Mexican-style slaw or a simple mixed green salad, to balance out the richness of the dish.
- Topped with Salsa or Guacamole: Add a side of fresh salsa or creamy guacamole for extra flavor and texture.
- Serve with Rice: For a more filling meal, serve these cheesy meat roll-ups with a side of rice or Mexican rice.
Cooking Tips
- Don’t Overfill the Tortillas: Be careful not to overstuff the tortillas, as they might burst open while baking. Keep the filling in a thin, even layer.
- Use the Right Tortillas: Flour tortillas are best for this recipe because they roll up easily and bake to a soft texture. If using corn tortillas, you may need to warm them up slightly to make them more pliable.
- Add Spice: If you enjoy spice, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the meat mixture for an extra kick.
Variations to Try
- Veggie Version: Omit the minced meat and add sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for a vegetarian version.
- Cheese Variations: Try different cheeses, such as cheddar, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses, to change the flavor profile.
- Taco-Style: For a taco-inspired twist, add taco seasoning to the meat mixture and serve with a dollop of sour cream.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Meat and Tortilla Roll-Ups are a simple yet satisfying dish that combines the best of comfort food and Tex-Mex flavors. With a filling of savory meat, melted mozzarella cheese, and a few simple seasonings, these roll-ups are baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner or a casual gathering, they are sure to become a favorite!
10 Comprehensive FAQ Section
1. Can I make these roll-ups ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the roll-ups in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.
2. Can I freeze the roll-ups?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked roll-ups. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
3. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of minced meat?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken works perfectly in this recipe as a leaner alternative to beef.
4. Can I make these roll-ups vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the meat and use sautéed vegetables, beans, or tofu for a delicious vegetarian version.
5. How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best results.
6. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese, such as cheddar, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack for a different flavor.
7. How do I make these roll-ups spicier?
Add some chopped jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the meat mixture for an extra kick.
8. Can I use store-bought tortillas?
Yes, store-bought tortillas work well for this recipe, but homemade tortillas will give you an even fresher taste.
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9. Can I bake these roll-ups in a casserole dish?
Yes, you can arrange the roll-ups in a casserole dish and bake them. You may need to add a little extra baking time.
10. How can I make the roll-ups gluten-free?
To make them gluten-free, use gluten-free tortillas and ensure that the breadcrumbs are gluten-free as well.