We have some sort of Mexican food every week because it is easier for me to plan meals when I have a consistent theme, and because my girls love the flavors. Bean tacos have been a staple, and while we do a lot of black bean tacos and sheet pan quesadillas, we’ve been loving these pinto bean roll-ups lately. This is a fun yet easy way to vary up how we serve the basic ingredients of a quesadilla and refried beans—or smashed pinto beans. Both options hold the tortilla together, which is nice here. You can serve these Tortilla Roll Ups with any sides you like, though we usually keep it easy with corn, fruit, and taco toppings like sour cream, guacamole, and salsa for dipping. (You may also like One-Pot Taco Pasta, Vegetarian Burrito Bowls, Ham and Cheese Pinwheels, and Sandwich Roll-Ups.)
Ingredients You Need
These taco roll ups are super simple AND they hold together much better than a classic taco—which is just a recipe for a giant mess when it comes to toddlers. Here’s a look at what you need to make this recipe.
Beans: You can use canned or Homemade Refried Beans, or canned or home-cooked pinto beans. It works similarly with both, though you may or may not need to add the spices and salt. Tortilla: You can use flour or corn tortillas to make the roll-ups. It’s usually a little easier to make them with flour tortillas, but warm either type gently and it should work. Shredded Cheese: I like to add shredded cheddar cheese inside the tortilla so there’s extra flavor and because it helps them hold together. Spices such as cumin, garlic powder, and salt to add flavor. Dips such as salsa, sour cream, guacamole, or really anything the kids like.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s a look at the simple process involved in making these taco roll ups. Scroll down to the bottom of this post to see the full recipe.
More Toddler Ideas with Beans
If you like this idea, you may also like:
Bean Puree Sheet Pan Black Bean Quesadillas Vegetarian Bean Chili Crockpot Pinto Beans
How to Store
These taco roll ups are best served right after making, though you can store leftovers or just leftover mashed beans or refried beans for about 5 days in a container in the refrigerator.
Best Tips for Success
You can use either corn or flour tortillas, though corn tortillas marked “soft” will hold together better. Use cheddar cheese, Mexican blend cheese, cream cheese, or another cheese you like. Warm the tortillas slightly before rolling up. Add salsa, sour cream or taco sauce for dipping. Season the beans with cumin and a little salt and pepper , or taco seasoning as needed to taste. Try as a game day appetizer or an easy toddler meal with Roasted Broccoli, Fruit Sticks, or Vanilla Milk on the side.
Please leave a comment if you try this recipe. I’d love to know what you think!
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Easy Turkey Wrap Recipe
This post was first published April 2018.
