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Baked Taco Cups Recipe: Easy, Crispy Mini Fiesta Bites Recipe


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4 from 81 reviews

  • Author: Chef
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 12 taco cups
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

These taco cups are bite-sized, crispy, and packed with classic taco flavor. Made in a muffin tin with seasoned ground beef and melty cheese, they’re perfect for parties, game day, or an easy weeknight dinner. Customize with optional beans, corn, and fresh toppings for a delicious Mexican-inspired appetizer or dinner.


Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
  • 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade taco seasoning)
  • 12 small flour or corn tortillas (or wonton wrappers)
  • 1½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
  • ½ cup black beans or corn (optional)

Optional Toppings

  • Diced tomatoes
  • Lettuce
  • Sour cream
  • Salsa
  • Guacamole


Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a muffin tin to prevent sticking.
  2. Cook Meat: Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat to keep the filling lean.
  3. Add Seasoning: Stir in the taco seasoning and cook according to the package directions, allowing the flavors to blend well with the meat.
  4. Prepare Tortilla Cups: Press each small tortilla (or 2 wonton wrappers per cup for extra crispiness) into the muffin tin wells to form small bowls.
  5. Fill Cups: Spoon the seasoned beef evenly into each tortilla cup.
  6. Add Cheese and Extras: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the meat in each cup, and add black beans or corn if desired for added texture and flavor.
  7. Bake: Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, until the edges of the tortillas are crispy and the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
  8. Cool Slightly and Serve: Remove the taco cups from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes before adding your choice of toppings like diced tomatoes, lettuce, sour cream, salsa, or guacamole. Serve warm for best taste.

Notes

  • Wonton wrappers make extra-crispy taco cups if you prefer a crispier texture.
  • Do not overfill the cups to avoid soggy bottoms and spilling during baking.
  • These taco cups are great for meal prepping and can be reheated in the oven or air fryer.
  • You can easily customize the filling with chicken or vegetarian alternatives to suit your dietary preferences.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired