Cheese-Stuffed Tortilla Chips Snack (Printable Version)

Crunchy stuffed tortilla chips ooze warm cheese, delivering a fun Tex-Mex bite for parties or snacking.

# What You'll Need:

→ Cheese Filling

01 - 5.3 oz shredded cheddar cheese
02 - 3.5 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
03 - 1 jalapeño, finely diced (optional)
04 - 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

→ Tortilla Dough

05 - 1 1/2 cups masa harina (corn flour)
06 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
07 - 1 cup warm water

→ For Frying

08 - 2 cups vegetable oil (for deep frying)
09 - Sea salt, for sprinkling

# Directions:

01 - Combine cheddar, mozzarella, jalapeño, and cilantro in a mixing bowl until evenly mixed. Set aside.
02 - In a separate bowl, stir together masa harina and salt. Gradually pour in warm water, mixing until a soft and pliable dough forms. Cover with a damp cloth and allow to rest for 10 minutes.
03 - Portion dough into 24 equal pieces and roll each into a ball.
04 - Place each ball between two sheets of parchment paper and flatten into a thin round approximately 2.75 inches in diameter using a tortilla press or rolling pin.
05 - Spoon about 1 teaspoon of cheese filling onto the center of each round. Fold over and tightly pinch the edges to seal, forming a half-moon shape.
06 - Preheat vegetable oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F.
07 - Carefully fry stuffed chips in batches for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crisp. Transfer to paper towels using a slotted spoon to drain excess oil.
08 - Immediately sprinkle fried chips with sea salt while still warm and serve at once.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • Crispy on the outside with a molten cheesy center for the ultimate texture contrast
  • Uses basic pantry ingredients like masa harina and everyday cheeses
  • Easy to customize with your favorite mix-ins or cheese blends
  • Fun hands-on project for kids or friends to help shape and fill the chips
  • Every bite brings back memories of lively movie nights with friends when these were requested more than popcorn
02 -
  • High protein snack thanks to the cheese combo
  • Easy to make gluten free by using certified masa harina
  • Perfect for prepping ahead and frying off just before serving
  • Cheddar brings a sharp flavor and vibrant color to the filling I love its boldness paired with the creaminess of mozzarella
03 -
  • Do not rush the frying process cook in small batches and keep the oil hot for the crispiest results
  • Always seal the edges well to prevent cheese from leaking into the oil
  • If dough seems too dry add a tablespoon of water at a time until it is easy to shape but not sticky