Crispy Tortilla Triangles Stuffed with Cheddar Cheese
Is it a movie night? Let’s see what snack to get… Oh wait – let’s make one.
Skip the popcorn, ditch the chips – tonight, we’re levelling up your snack game with these golden, crispy, cheesy triangles of joy: Queso Triangas!
This melty, gooey, crunchy snack is inspired by a Middle Eastern fast food chain that knows a thing or two about flavour bombs. If you’ve ever had their version, you know what I’m talking about – that soft, creamy cheese tucked inside a crispy shell, dipped in something spicy while watching your favourite flick.
Let’s talk cheese
The secret to nailing this recipe is not using regular cream cheese – it’s too runny and won’t give you that rich, velvety bite you’re craving. Instead, reach for Kiri or Laughing Cow – both have that creamy texture and mellow flavour that melts beautifully but stays put.
To take things up a notch, we’re adding sharp cheddar to the mix. That little tangy bite cuts through the richness and gives you that signature cheesy pull we all dream about.
Make it mild or fiery – your call 🔥
One of the best parts of this recipe? You control the heat. Want it mellow and kid-friendly? Keep it plain. Want to bring the fire? Add a pinch of smoked paprika, chili flakes, or even Kashmiri red chilli powder for that deep colour and slow-building spice. Whether you’re into bold heat or subtle warmth, it’s easy to tweak.
The crunch factor – upgraded
Here’s a fun twist: instead of using plain flour mix to seal your triangles, you can crush up your favourite tortilla crisps and use that instead! Just blitz them in a blender until you get a powdery texture, and for extra crunch, crush some by hand to add coarser flakes too.
My go-to is Tangy Cheese Doritos, but I’ve also tried BBQ flavour, and both work amazingly. Not only does this method add a good crunch, it also adds another layer of flavour that makes these Triangas even more addictive.
Triangle time
Shape the queso filling into neat triangles, then lay them flat on a tray lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a ziplock bag for easy storage. They’ll keep for weeks and cook up perfectly straight from the freezer – no need to thaw. Crispy on the outside, molten on the inside. Perfect for last-minute cravings or spontaneous movie nights.
Traditionally, these are deep-fried, but honestly? You can totally air-fry them for a lighter, less greasy (but still deliciously crisp) protein-packed version. That way, you can eat more and maybe not feel too guilty about it. 😉
Queso Triangas
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 cup cream cheese softened
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper optional, for heat
- Salt to taste
For the Coating:
- 1 cup crushed tortilla chips cheese or spicy flavor
- 1 cup breadcrumbs panko or regular
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs beaten
- Oil for frying
Instructions
Make the Cheesy Filling:
- In a bowl, mix the cheddar cheese, cream cheese, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, and salt until smooth and fully combined.
- Chill for 15–20 minutes to firm it up.
Shape the Triangles
- Scoop out spoonfuls of the mixture and shape into small, flat triangles (about 2 inches wide).
- Place on a tray lined with parchment paper.
- Freeze for 20–30 minutes until firm.
Prepare the Coating:
Set up 3 bowls
- Flour
- Beaten eggs
- Breadcrumbs + crushed tortilla chips
Coat the Triangles
- Dredge each triangle in flour, then dip in egg, then coat with the breadcrumb/tortillas mix.
- For extra crunch, repeat the egg + crumb step.
- Chill or freeze again for 10 minutes before frying.
Fry to Perfection
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep pan.
- Fry triangles for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Alternatively: Air Fryer
- Air fry each side for 5 minutes or until golden and crisp.
🏷️ Homemade Truffle Aioli
