Cheesy Taco Pinwheels

If you love tacos but want an easy, handheld version, these Cheesy Taco Pinwheels are a must-try! With a flaky, crispy tortilla, seasoned taco meat, and gooey melted cheese, they are perfect for parties, game nights, or a quick meal.

Whether you air-fry, bake, or pan-fry, these taco pinwheels are guaranteed to be a hit with kids and adults alike. Plus, they’re versatile, easy to make, and perfect for dipping in guacamole, salsa, or queso.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Taco Filling

• ½ lb Ground Beef: Classic taco meat, but you can swap for chicken or turkey.
• 2 tbsp Taco Seasoning: Store-bought or homemade for a bold, smoky flavor.
• ¼ cup Water: Helps the seasoning mix evenly into the meat.
• 4 oz Cream Cheese, softened: Makes the filling extra creamy.
• ¼ cup Sour Cream: Adds tangy richness.
• ½ cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully for a gooey texture.

For the Pinwheels

• 2 Large Flour Tortillas: Soft, pliable, and perfect for rolling.

For Air Frying

• Olive Oil Spray: Ensures the tortillas crisp up perfectly.
• Parchment Liner (optional): Helps prevent sticking.

For Dipping (Optional)

• Salsa: Classic and fresh.
• Guacamole: Creamy and flavorful.
• Queso or Nacho Cheese Sauce: For the ultimate cheesy experience.

How to Make Cheesy Taco Pinwheels

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Step 1: Cook the Taco Meat

🔥 In a small skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned.
🚫 Drain excess grease, then stir in taco seasoning and ¼ cup water.
⏳ Simmer until the liquid evaporates. (If using leftover taco meat, just reheat and mix with cheese.)

Step 2: Make the Filling

🥄 In a mixing bowl, combine the warm taco meat, cream cheese, and sour cream.
🧂 Taste and add salt if needed.
🧀 Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Pinwheels

🫓 Lay out tortillas and spread the taco filling evenly over each.
🔄 Roll each tortilla tightly into a log shape.
🔪 Trim the edges and slice into 5-6 even pinwheels per tortilla.

Step 4: Air Fry the Pinwheels

💨 Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (188°C).
📌 Arrange pinwheels seam-side down in the basket, leaving space between them.
⏳ Air fry for 5 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Serve & Dip

🥣 Serve immediately with salsa, queso, or guacamole.
🧄 For extra flavor, sprinkle with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice.

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Storage & Reheating

• Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Freeze uncooked pinwheels for up to 2 months. Air-fry from frozen, adding 2-3 extra minutes.
• Reheat: Warm in the air fryer at 350°F for 2-3 minutes to keep them crispy.

These Cheesy Taco Pinwheels are crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor—the perfect snack for any occasion! Whether you dip them in salsa or eat them on their own, they’ll disappear fast.

✨ Try them today and enjoy the crunch! ✨

📌 Did you make this recipe? Let me know in the comments!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes! Shredded or ground chicken works great in this recipe.

→ Can I bake these instead of air frying?

Yes! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes until crispy.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for best results.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking.

→ What dips go well with these pinwheels?

Salsa, guacamole, queso, or sour cream are all great options!