How to Roll a Tortilla Wrap (That Stays Together!)

Rolling a tortilla wrap sounds easy until all your fillings fall out. Whether you’re making my BBQ Chicken Wraps or something from this tortilla wrap recipe collection, this simple step-by-step guide will help you learn how to roll a tortilla that is tight and mess-free every time.

collage of photos showing how to roll a tortilla wrap.

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🥣How to Roll a Tortilla Wrap
✅Quick Tips
❓FAQ
😋Easy Tortilla Wrap Recipes
💌Let's Stay in Touch

A well-rolled tortilla is the secret to turkey wraps, breakfast wraps, and lunchbox favorites that are neat, tidy, and easy to eat. This guide shares simple tips, step-by-step instructions, and answers to common questions to show you how to roll tortilla wraps that hold together and taste great. No more torn tortillas or fillings falling out mid-bite.

🥣How to Roll a Tortilla Wrap

Step 1. Start with a large 10-inch flour tortilla. They're soft, pliable, and hold enough filling for a good-sized sandwich. Warm the tortilla, even if it doesn't feel dry. Warm tortillas are extra stretchy and easy to roll. Microwave it in damp paper towels for 30 seconds or warm it in a dry skillet.

offset spatula spreading cream cheese on a large flour tortilla.

Step 2. Use glue. This is optional, but a foolproof way of keeping wraps from unfolding. Spread the tortilla with cream cheese, hummus, or something similar to hold the roll together. These spreads can also serve as a moisture barrier to keep sandwich wraps from getting soggy. And make an extra delicious wrap!

tongs placing filling in the center of a large flour tortilla.

Step 3. Fill it up. Place the filling just below the middle of the tortilla. Be careful not to overfill. I generally use up to 1 ½ cups of filling for one large flour tortilla.

hands folding in the sides of a tortilla wrap.

Step 4. Fold the tortilla. Fold in both side flaps of the tortilla, angling slightly inward.

hands folding up the bottom of the tortilla over the filling.

Step 5. Tuck and roll. While holding in the sides of the tortilla, use your thumbs to roll the bottom of the tortilla up and over the filling, gently pulling the filling toward you as needed. Use your ring finger and pinky finger to tuck in the sides as you roll the tortilla closed.

hands holding two halves of a tortilla wrap.

Step 6. Optional, seal the burrito. Place the wrap seam-side down in a hot skillet until browned. Otherwise, slice in half and enjoy. Or wrap in parchment paper or aluminum foil and store in the fridge until it's time to eat.

👉Helpful Hint: Overstuffed wraps = messy wraps. Overfilling is a common mistake. Less filling makes for easier rolling and neater eating. Use 1 to 1 ½ cups.

✅Quick Tips

Start with a large 10-inch flour or corn-blend tortilla
Always warm the tortillas first. Cold tortillas crack.
Use a spread. Cream cheese or hummus adds flavor and helps "glue" everything together.
Pack it to go. Wrap in parchment or foil to keep it secure and easy to eat later.
Want crunch? Toast the rolled wrap seam-side down in a skillet or panini press until golden.

❓FAQ

Why does my tortilla always crack when I roll it?

It’s probably too cold or too dry. It's always a good idea to warm it up briefly in the microwave or skillet to make it more flexible. I microwave them between paper towels dampened with a little bit of warm water, and they always come out soft and pliable.

How do I keep the wrap from falling apart while eating?

Don’t overfill, and be sure to roll tightly and fold in both ends. This will help keep filling from falling out the open end. Wrapping it in foil or parchment can also help keep things together on the go.

Can I make tortilla wraps ahead of time?

Yes. Store tortilla wraps tightly wrapped in foil or parchment in the fridge for up to 2 days. Tortilla wraps will soften overnight, especially those with saucy fillings and juicy vegetables or fruit. For best results, keep wetter ingredients separate until serving.

What size tortilla should I use?

Large burrito-size (10-inch) tortillas work best for full wraps. They give you enough room to fold without everything spilling out the end of the burrito.

How do I keep my wrap from getting soggy?

Start by layering drier ingredients like leafy greens or cheese as a moisture barrier, and avoid adding saucy foods or wet condiments like salad dressing or sour cream directly to the tortilla. When making ahead, avoid wrapping in plastic wrap, as it can trap moisture. Use parchment or foil instead.

Can I use a corn tortilla for wraps?

You can, but they’re more delicate than flour tortillas and tend to crack when rolled. To help prevent this, warm them first to make them more flexible, and keep the filling minimal. For better results with larger wraps, try doubling them up or using a corn-flour blend tortilla that’s softer and easier to roll.