These Taco Ranch Bites are the perfect party treat! With a crispy base, flavorful taco filling, and a creamy ranch kick, they are fun and tasty!
They’re so easy to make, and I love serving them with extra salsa on the side. Just watch out; they disappear fast! Everyone wants a second bite! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mini Taco Shells: You can use mini taco shells for a fun crunch, but if they’re hard to find, wonton wrappers are a great alternative! Just shape them in a muffin tin to make mini cups. I love the way wontons crisp up in the oven!
Ground Beef: While ground beef is a classic choice, ground turkey makes for a lighter option. It works just as well with the seasoning and keeps the bites flavorful. If you want a vegetarian twist, try black beans or lentils.
Taco Seasoning: Pre-packaged taco seasoning is super convenient, but you can make your own with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika. This way, you control the spice level and fresh ingredients!
Cheese: The Mexican blend is delicious, but feel free to use your favorite cheese. Sharp cheddar adds a nice kick, while Monterey Jack gives creaminess. Mix and match to your taste!
Ranch Dressing: For a healthier option, consider using Greek yogurt seasoned with herbs. It gives you that tangy flavor without the extra calories. It’s my go-to for a creamier texture!
How Can I Ensure My Wonton Cups Are Crispy?
If you’re using wonton wrappers, getting that ideal crispiness is key. Start by preheating your oven. For perfect cups, follow these steps:
- Gently press wonton wrappers into a mini muffin tin. This forms deep cups for filling.
- Lightly brush them with oil or cooking spray to help achieve golden color.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes until crispy. Keep an eye on them as they can burn quickly!
Making sure they’re not too soft will help the bites hold all that delicious filling without becoming soggy later. Enjoy your taco creation!
How to Make Taco Ranch Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Taco Bites:
- 1 (12 oz) bag mini taco shells (or wonton wrappers shaped into mini cups)
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, etc.)
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Optional: sour cream or additional ranch for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and about 20 minutes in total, including cooking and baking time. It’s a quick and fun way to whip up a delicious appetizer that everyone will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you’re using wonton wrappers, gently press them into a mini muffin tin to shape them into cups. Bake these in the oven for about 8-10 minutes until they’re golden and crispy. If you’re using pre-made mini taco shells, you can skip this step!
2. Cook the Meat:
In a medium skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Once it’s thoroughly cooked, drain any excess grease.
3. Season the Meat:
Add the taco seasoning and 1/2 cup of water to the skillet. Stir well to combine everything, then let it simmer for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens up nicely.
4. Mix in Ranch and Cilantro:
Remove the skillet from the heat, and stir in the ranch dressing and chopped cilantro. Make sure everything gets mixed together well.
5. Fill the Taco Shells:
Spoon the seasoned meat mixture into each mini taco shell or cup. Aim to fill them generously, but be careful not to overfill!
6. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle shredded cheese all over the filled shells, making sure each one gets a good topping for that delicious melt when baked.
7. Bake the Taco Bites:
Place all the assembled taco bites on a baking sheet and put them in the oven. Bake for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once they’re done baking, carefully remove the bites from the oven and garnish with extra chopped cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.
9. Enjoy!
Serve your Taco Ranch Bites warm with sour cream or extra ranch dressing on the side for dipping. They’re perfect for parties or just a fun snack at home!
Can I Use a Different Protein?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meats work well as substitutes for ground beef. Just ensure they’re cooked thoroughly before mixing in the taco seasoning.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. This helps maintain the crispiness of the shells!
Can These Be Made Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the meat mixture and fill the shells a few hours ahead. Keep them covered in the fridge, and bake them just before serving for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste!
What’s a Good Dipping Sauce Alternative?
If you’re looking for something different than ranch or sour cream, try guacamole or a zesty salsa. Both add great flavor and freshness to the bites!
