Cheesy Taco Pinwheels are a fun and delicious snack or appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. With a savory filling of salsa, cheese, and fresh toppings wrapped in crescent dough, these bite-sized pinwheels are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Serve them with a flavorful sour cream dip for an extra burst of flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent dough
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped black olives
- 1/4 cup chopped tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Unroll crescent dough onto a baking sheet and press into a single layer.
- Spread salsa over the dough, then sprinkle with cheese.
- Roll up the dough tightly and slice into 8-10 pieces.
- Place pinwheels on the baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown.
- In a small bowl, mix sour cream, green onions, black olives, tomatoes, and cilantro.
- Serve pinwheels with the sour cream mixture for dipping.
Servings and Timing:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
- Total Time: 30-33 minutes
- Servings: 8-10 pinwheels
Variations:
- Meat Option: Add cooked ground beef or shredded chicken for a heartier filling.
- Spicy Twist: Mix some diced jalapeños or hot sauce into the salsa for added heat.
- Vegan Version: Use dairy-free cheese and sour cream for a vegan-friendly alternative.
- Add Veggies: You can add other veggies like bell peppers or corn for extra texture and flavor.
Storage/Reheating:
- Storage: Store leftover pinwheels in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place pinwheels on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
10 FAQs:
- Can I make these pinwheels ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the pinwheels, slice them, and refrigerate them until ready to bake.
- Can I use a different type of dough? While crescent dough is ideal, you can use pizza dough or puff pastry if you prefer.
- Can I freeze the pinwheels? Yes, you can freeze the uncooked pinwheels for up to 1 month. Bake them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- What can I serve with these pinwheels? These pinwheels pair well with guacamole, salsa, or even a side salad for a complete meal.
- Can I make these without cheese? You can make them dairy-free by omitting the cheese or using a non-dairy cheese substitute.
- How can I make these spicier? Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes to the filling for a spicier version.
- Can I use homemade salsa? Yes, homemade salsa works great in this recipe and can add extra freshness and flavor.
- Can I add meat to the filling? Yes, you can add cooked ground beef, turkey, or shredded chicken for a more filling pinwheel.
- How can I make these gluten-free? Use gluten-free crescent dough or a suitable gluten-free alternative for the dough.
- Can I serve these as a main course? Yes, they can be served as a main dish with a side salad or soup, depending on the occasion.
Conclusion:
Cheesy Taco Pinwheels are a quick and easy snack or appetizer that’s perfect for any gathering. With a crispy outer layer and a cheesy, flavorful filling, these pinwheels are sure to become a favorite. Whether served for a casual dinner, game day, or a party, they’re guaranteed to impress!