Taco Cups with Beef and Cheese -

Welcome to another delicious recipe that will surely become a family favorite! Today, we’ll be making Taco Cups with Beef and Cheese, a delightful twist on traditional tacos that are easy to make and packed with flavor. As we delve into this recipe, you’ll discover how simple it is to bring a taste of Mexico into your kitchen.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Taco Cups with Beef and Cheese are the perfect solution for those looking for a quick, flavorful meal. They combine the fun of finger food with the comforting flavors of ground beef, cheese, and taco seasoning. Ideal for parties, game days, or family dinners, these taco cups are not only delicious but visually appealing. Plus, they can be easily customized with your favorite toppings, allowing everyone to personalize their meal.

Ingredients

Let’s gather the ingredients needed for this delightful dish:

2 teaspoons olive oil
1 pound ground beef (I use 90% lean)
2 tablespoons taco seasoning
Salt to taste
1 14-ounce can petite diced tomatoes, drained
24 wonton wrappers
1 1/4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup sliced green onions
1/4 cup diced fresh tomatoes
Cooking spray

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This will ensure your Taco Cups bake evenly and turn crispy.

Step 2: In a large pan, heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add 1 pound of ground beef.

Step 3: Using a spatula, break up the ground beef into smaller pieces as it cooks. Stir constantly to ensure even cooking. After a few minutes, add 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning and salt to taste. Be mindful to taste the beef as some taco seasonings can be quite salty.

Step 4: Continue to cook the beef for 4-5 minutes or until thoroughly cooked. To add moisture and flavor, stir in the drained petite diced tomatoes and mix well.

Step 5: While the beef mixture is cooking, prepare a 12-cup muffin tin by spraying it with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Take one wonton wrapper and place it in the bottom of each muffin cup.

Step 6: Spoon approximately 1 tablespoon of the cooked beef mixture into each wonton cup, then sprinkle about 2 teaspoons of shredded cheddar cheese on top.

Step 7: Add a second layer by placing another wonton wrapper over the cheese. Then, distribute the remaining beef mixture evenly across all the muffin cups and finish by topping with the rest of the cheddar cheese.

Step 8: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should be golden brown with the cheese melted and bubbling.

Step 9: When the Taco Cups are ready, carefully remove them from the oven. Let them cool slightly before garnishing. Top each one with a small dollop of sour cream and sprinkle with sliced green onions and diced fresh tomatoes before serving.

Pro Tips for Making Taco Cups

To ensure the best results when making Taco Cups with Beef and Cheese, consider the following tips:

Lean Meat: Using 90% lean ground beef prevents excess grease and keeps the cups from becoming soggy.
Customizable: Feel free to add other ingredients such as black beans, corn, or jalapeños into the mixture for added flavor and texture.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the beef mixture a day in advance to save time, just reheat before assembling in the wonton wrappers.
Wonton Wrappers: If you cannot find wonton wrappers, egg roll wrappers can be cut into quarters and used as a substitute.
Baking Tips: To achieve perfectly crispy taco cups, make sure that the wrappers are tight to the muffin cup edges and not too loose.

FAQs

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground chicken works well and can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef. Season it similarly for great flavor.

Can I make them vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace ground beef with a mix of black beans, bell peppers, and corn for a delicious vegetarian option.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Can I freeze Taco Cups?

Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Assemble them in the muffin tin, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and freeze. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What toppings work well with Taco Cups?

Some great toppings include guacamole, jalapeños, salsa, or even guacamole for a different flavor profile!

Conclusion

These Taco Cups with Beef and Cheese are a fantastic and fun way to enjoy taco night. They’re not only tasty but also allow for variety and customization, making them a hit with everyone at the table. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can bring this delicious recipe to your dinner table. Give it a try, and enjoy every bite!