Taco Roll-Ups with Crispy Tortilla Shells Recipe
Introduction
Taco Roll Ups are a fun and flavorful twist on traditional tacos, perfect for parties or a quick snack. With a crispy outside and a savory, cheesy filling inside, they’re sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients
- 8 small flour tortillas (soft and pliable)
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 1/2 cup chopped lettuce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Step 2: Add taco seasoning and a little water to the beef. Stir and let simmer for 5 minutes.
- Step 3: Warm the tortillas in the microwave for 10 seconds to make them more flexible.
- Step 4: Spread a thin layer of sour cream on each tortilla, then add seasoned beef, shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, and lettuce.
- Step 5: Roll the tortillas tightly and place them seam-side down on a plate.
- Step 6: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the roll ups seam-side down and cook for 2 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Step 7: Slice into bite-sized pieces and serve with salsa, guacamole, or extra sour cream.
Tips & Variations
- Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter twist without sacrificing flavor.
- Try adding finely chopped onions or jalapeños to the beef for extra kick.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch or pico de gallo for variety.
- Warm the tortillas just before assembling to prevent tearing when rolling.
Storage
Store any leftover roll ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven to retain the crispy exterior. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep them crispy.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the roll ups in advance and refrigerate them before cooking. Cook them just before serving to keep them crispy.
What can I use if I don’t have taco seasoning?
A simple mix of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper can substitute well for taco seasoning.
Print
Taco Roll-Ups with Crispy Tortilla Shells Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 roll ups 1x
Description
These Taco Roll Ups with Tortillas are a delicious and fun way to enjoy classic taco flavors in a handheld form. Ground beef seasoned with taco spices is rolled with cheese, sour cream, tomatoes, and lettuce inside soft flour tortillas, then pan-fried to a crispy golden brown. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or light meal, they pair wonderfully with salsa, guacamole, or extra sour cream.
Ingredients
Roll Ups
- 8 small flour tortillas (soft and pliable)
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 1/2 cup chopped lettuce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
Instructions
- Cook the ground beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess grease for a leaner filling.
- Season the beef: Add the taco seasoning and a little water to the beef in the skillet. Stir well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to develop the flavors.
- Warm the tortillas: Briefly warm the tortillas in the microwave for 10 seconds to make them soft and pliable, which will help when rolling.
- Assemble the roll ups: Spread a thin layer of sour cream over each tortilla. Then add a portion of the seasoned beef, shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, and optional chopped lettuce on top.
- Roll the tortillas: Tightly roll the tortillas to enclose the filling and place them seam-side down on a plate to keep them closed.
- Pan-fry the roll ups: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the roll ups seam-side down and cook for 2 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Serve: Slice the crispy roll ups into bite-sized pieces and serve warm with your favorite salsa, guacamole, or extra sour cream for dipping.
Notes
- Try swapping ground turkey for a leaner option.
- For added spice, include jalapeños or hot sauce in the filling.
- You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
- If you prefer vegetarian, omit the meat and use seasoned beans instead.
- Serve immediately after frying to maintain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Keywords: taco roll ups, tortilla roll ups, ground beef tacos, crispy taco roll ups, easy appetizers, Mexican snacks

