Description
Crunchy Taco Cups are a fun and creative twist on the classic taco. These bite-sized cups feature a crispy tortilla shell filled with seasoned meat, cheese, and all your favorite taco toppings. Perfect for parties, family gatherings, or even a weeknight dinner, these taco cups offer all the delicious flavors of a taco in a convenient, handheld form. Whether served as appetizers or as a main dish, Crunchy Taco Cups are sure to satisfy everyone’s taco cravings!
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 small flour tortillas (or corn tortillas for a gluten-free option)
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground chicken or turkey)
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup water (for taco seasoning)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of your favorite cheese)
- 1/2 cup black beans (optional, drained and rinsed)
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions (optional)
- Sour cream, salsa, and guacamole (optional toppings)
- Olive oil (for brushing the tortillas)
Ingredient Highlights
- Tortillas: Small flour tortillas are used to create the crunchy cups, but you can easily substitute with corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.
- Ground Meat: Ground beef, chicken, or turkey are all great options for the taco filling. You can also use plant-based meat for a vegetarian version.
- Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese provides that classic taco flavor, but you can use any cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack.
- Beans and Vegetables: Black beans and diced tomatoes are optional but add flavor and texture to the filling.
- Toppings: Sour cream, salsa, and guacamole are the perfect finishing touches for your taco cups.
Instructions
Prepare the Taco Filling:
- Cook the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef (or chicken/turkey) until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Season the Meat: Stir in the taco seasoning mix and water, and simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the meat is fully cooked and the seasoning is well incorporated. Remove from heat and set aside.
Prepare the Taco Cups:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Shape the Tortillas: Brush both sides of each tortilla with a light coating of olive oil. Using a muffin tin, gently press each tortilla into a cup shape. You can fold the edges of the tortilla to fit the muffin tin if necessary. Bake the tortillas for 8-10 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
- Fill the Tortilla Cups: Once the tortilla cups have cooled slightly, spoon the taco meat mixture into each tortilla cup, filling them about halfway.
- Add Cheese and Optional Ingredients: Top the meat mixture with a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese. If desired, add black beans, diced tomatoes, and green onions on top of the cheese.
Bake the Taco Cups:
- Bake Again: Return the muffin tin to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Let the taco cups cool for a few minutes before removing them from the muffin tin. Serve with your favorite toppings such as sour cream, salsa, guacamole, and extra cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 250-300 kcal
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 18g