Individual Chili Strudels
Description
These Individual Chili Strudels offer a delightful twist on traditional appetizers or light mains. The dish combines the rich, savory depth of homemade or store-bought chili with the delicate, flaky crunch of buttery phyllo dough. Monterey Jack cheese adds a creamy, melty element that ties the flavors together perfectly. Ideal for game day parties, holiday gatherings, or a quick weeknight dinner, these strudels are easy to assemble and bake to golden perfection. They provide a satisfying texture contrast between the crisp exterior and the warm, soft filling inside. A great way to elevate simple ingredients into an impressive presentation that guests will love.Ingredients
Directions
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Prepare the chili according to package or recipe instructions, then chill it in the refrigerator until firm and cold.
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Preheat the oven to 400&# 194;°F (200ðC).
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Grease a 15 1/2 x 10 1/2 x 1-inch jelly roll pan or a standard baking sheet.
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Lay one sheet of phyllo dough on a clean kitchen towel with the long edge closest to you. Keep remaining phyllo covered with a damp towel to prevent drying.
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Lightly brush the first phyllo sheet with melted butter.
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Place a second phyllo sheet on top and brush lightly with more melted butter.
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Top with a third phyllo sheet (do not butter this one) and cut the stack in half crosswise.
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Spoon about 3/4 cup of chilled chili along the near edge of each phyllo half, leaving a 1-inch border on the sides and top uncovered.
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Using the towel, lift the edge closest to you and flip it over the filling, starting the roll.
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Tuck the side edges of the phyllo over the filling, then continue rolling the strudel tightly to the end.
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Place the strudel on the prepared pan, seam side down.
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Repeat the process with the remaining phyllo sheets and chili to make four strudels total.
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Brush the tops of the strudels with the remaining melted butter.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the phyllo is crisp and golden brown.
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If using an oven-safe serving platter, transfer the strudels to it. Otherwise, leave them in the baking pan.
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Sprinkle the coarse Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the hot strudels.
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Return to the oven for about 3 minutes, just until the cheese is melted.
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Remove from the oven, garnish if desired, and serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 4302.3kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 197.5g304%
- Saturated Fat 73.1g366%
- Cholesterol 193.5mg65%
- Sodium 6435.8mg269%
- Total Carbohydrate 551.1g184%
- Dietary Fiber 58.0g232%
- Sugars 32.1g
- Protein 109.8g220%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Make sure the chili is completely cooled and firm before filling; warm or loose filling will make the phyllo soggy and difficult to roll.
Phyllo dough dries out quickly. Keep unused sheets covered with a damp, not wet, kitchen towel while working.
You can substitute Monterey Jack with cheddar, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend for different flavor profiles.
For a vegetarian option, ensure your chili is made without meat. You can also use a bean-based chili for extra fiber.
Strudels are best served fresh while the phyllo is still crisp. They can be reheated in a 350ðF oven for 5-10 minutes to restore crispness.