Easy Taco Cups
Gearing up for a family gathering, a casual game night with friends, or simply wanting to impress your loved ones with delicious snack food? Look no further than these Easy Taco Cups. Crunchy, savory, and utterly satisfying, these delightful mini meals not only pack a flavorful punch but also offer an effortless approach to cooking that will leave everyone reaching for seconds. Perfect for any occasion, they are sure to become a household favorite.
Why Make This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings, Easy Taco Cups come together in mere minutes and can be made with minimal effort.
- Customizable: Whether you prefer spicy toppings or a sour cream drizzle, these taco cups allow you to personalize each bite according to your taste.
- Kid-Friendly: Fun to eat and packed with flavors, these taco cups are a hit among both kids and adults alike, making them a versatile option for every palate.
Ready to whip up something delicious? Let’s dive into how you can make these Easy Taco Cups right in your own kitchen.
How to Make Easy Taco Cups
Making taco cups at home is not only fun, but it’s also easy enough to involve the kids and create lasting memories together. Here’s a clear step-by-step guide to ensure your taco cups turn out perfectly every time.
Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This is essential for ensuring that your taco cups become crispy and golden.Prepare the Muffin Tin
Spray a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray, ensuring each cup is well-coated. This helps prevent any sticking and makes serving easier.Make the Taco Filling
In a large skillet, add a splash of olive oil and heat it over medium-high heat. Once hot, toss in the diced onions and sauté them until they become tender, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
Then, add 1 pound of ground beef into the skillet along with the seasonings: 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of paprika, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of onion powder, and ½ teaspoon each of salt and black pepper. Cook the beef until it is browned and fully cooked through, which should take another 3-4 minutes.
Once the beef is cooked, add in the drained canned petite diced tomatoes, mixing it all together. Allow the mixture to cook on medium-low heat until most of the liquid is absorbed, stirring occasionally. This should take approximately 5-7 minutes.Assemble the Cups
Take the prepared muffin tin and place one wonton wrapper in the center of each cup. Press down gently to mold the wrapper into the shape of the cup. Next, sprinkle a small layer of the shredded cheddar cheese into each cup, then add another wonton wrapper on top—pressing down gently again. After that, use a spoon to add about a tablespoon of the ground beef mixture into each cup, followed by a sprinkle of the remaining cheese on top.Bake the Cups
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and let it bake for approximately 13-17 minutes. Keep an eye on it, as every oven can vary. You’re looking for a nice toasty color, and if you enjoy them crunchier, you might want to let them go for the full 17 minutes.Remove and Serve
Once they are beautifully baked, carefully run a sharp knife around the edge of each cup and pop them out of the tin. They can be a little hot, so allow them to cool for a minute or two before garnishing.Garnish and Enjoy
Top your taco cups with your favorite garnishes like sour cream, guacamole, or chopped cilantro, and serve immediately.
Ingredients
To create your delightful Easy Taco Cups, gather the following ingredients:
- 24 wonton wrappers (2 per cup)
- 1 pound ground beef (I used 90/10)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) petite diced tomatoes (drained)
- 1¼ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ of a white onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, chopped cilantro, tomatoes, etc.
Directions
- Preheat the oven. Turn your oven on to 400 degrees and spray a 12 cup muffin tin with cooking spray.
- Make the taco filling. Add a splash of olive oil to a large skillet. Once hot, add the onions and sauté until tender. Add the ground beef and seasonings and cook until the beef is browned and cooked through (about 3-4 minutes). Add the canned tomatoes (drained) and continue cooking until almost all of the liquid is absorbed, stirring occasionally (about 5-7 minutes).
- Assemble the cups. Place one wonton wrapper in the center of each cup of your prepared tin. Press it down slightly so it forms to the cup. Add a small layer of cheese and another wonton wrapper on top (again, gently press the wonton down so it sticks to the cheese layer). Spoon one tablespoon of the ground beef mixture into each cup and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Bake. Place the tin in the oven and bake for 13-17 minutes or until the wontons are toasted and the cheese has melted. (We like ours pretty crispy, so I usually let mine bake for the whole 17 minutes. Every oven is different, though, so I’d suggest checking your cups around the 10-minute mark to make sure they’re not burning.)
- Once done, run a sharp knife around the edge of each cup and pop the taco cups out of the tin.
- Garnish & serve! Garnish with your favorite toppings and serve immediately.
Storage Tips for Easy Taco Cups
To keep your easy taco cups fresh and delicious, follow these storage guidelines:
- Refrigerate: Store any leftover taco cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for 3-4 days at a temperature of 40°F.
- Freeze: If you have plenty of leftovers, feel free to freeze the taco cups! They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just make sure they are properly sealed in a freezer-safe container.
- Reheat: To enjoy your taco cups again, reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This will help restore their crispiness.
Serving Suggestions for Easy Taco Cups
Easy Taco Cups are versatile and pair well with various sides and dips. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game:
- Fresh Salad: A zingy, crisp salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the savory taco cups, balancing out the meal.
- Dipping Sauces: Serve with a side of salsa or chipotle sauce for those who crave a little extra kick. Consider a zesty lime crema to drizzle on top for added zing.
- Beverage Pairings: Pair your taco cups with chilled drinks like margaritas, iced tea, or a light lager for a complete fiesta experience.
- Party Platter: Arrange the taco cups around a large platter, surrounded by colorful toppings such as fresh avocado, jalapeños, and sour cream for a fun make-your-own taco station.
Tips to Make Easy Taco Cups
- Don’t overfill: Ensure you spoon just enough beef into each cup. Overfilling can lead to messy cups and less crunch.
- Customize your seasonings: Feel free to spice things up by adding jalapeños or additional chili powder if you want a bit more heat.
- Use alternative proteins: If you prefer chicken or turkey, swap the ground beef for your choice; just adjust the cooking time as necessary.
Variations or Substitutions
There are numerous ways to put your own twist on Easy Taco Cups. Here are some suggestions to consider:
- Vegetarian Option: If you’re looking to make a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with a combination of black beans and corn, seasoned similarly to the original recipe.
- Different Cheeses: While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, experiment with pepper jack for a spicy twist or use a blend of cheese varieties for enhanced flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. Assemble and bake it right before serving.
Q: Can I use chicken instead of beef?
A: Absolutely! Ground chicken or shredded rotisserie chicken can be substituted for the ground beef. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
Q: How can I make these taco cups spicier?
A: If you’re looking for a kick, consider adding diced jalapeños, some crushed red pepper flakes, or even a splash of hot sauce to the ground beef filling.
Nutritional Information
As with any recipe, the caloric content can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. A rough estimate for one taco cup is approximately 120 calories, assuming you follow the recipe as it is with ground beef and standard toppings. Here is a basic breakdown you might consider:
- Protein: 8 grams
- Carbohydrates: 10 grams
- Fat: 6 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
Remember to adjust your calculations based on any toppings and variations you include.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on your taco cups while they are in the oven to prevent them from burning.
- Soggy Wrappers: Ensure your cooked beef mixture isn’t too watery before assembling, as excess moisture can lead to soggy taco cups.
- Not pressing down the wrappers: Pressing down is key for the wonton wrappers to hold shape and provide that satisfying crunch we all love.
With these Easy Taco Cups, you can create a delightful dish that brings joy and flavor to any gathering. Whether you’re serving them for a casual dinner or a special occasion, your family and friends are sure to appreciate this fun, tasty treat. Happy cooking!
Print
Easy Taco Cups
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: None
Description
Crunchy, savory, and utterly satisfying, these Easy Taco Cups are perfect for family gatherings or game nights. Customizable and kid-friendly, they offer a delightful mini meal experience.
Ingredients
- 24 wonton wrappers (2 per cup)
- 1 pound ground beef (90/10)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) petite diced tomatoes (drained)
- 1¼ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ of a white onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, chopped cilantro, tomatoes, etc.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and spray a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray.
- In a large skillet, add olive oil over medium-high heat, then sauté diced onions until tender (2-3 minutes).
- Add ground beef and seasonings, cooking until the beef is browned (3-4 minutes). Stir in drained diced tomatoes and cook until liquid is absorbed (5-7 minutes).
- Place one wonton wrapper in each muffin cup, press down gently. Add a layer of cheese, another wonton wrapper, and a tablespoon of beef mixture topped with cheese.
- Bake for 13-17 minutes until wontons are golden and crispy.
- Carefully remove from the tin, garnish with toppings, and serve warm.
Notes
Make ahead by preparing the filling in advance. Store assembled cups in the refrigerator and bake just before serving.