Description
These Taco Ranch Bites are the perfect party snack or appetizer! Packed with a creamy, cheesy, taco-flavored filling and baked in crispy phyllo cups or wonton wrappers, they’re irresistibly delicious and incredibly easy to make. Perfect for game days, potlucks, or when you’re craving a quick savory treat!
Ingredients
For the Bites:
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 24 mini phyllo pastry cups or wonton wrappers
Optional Toppings:
- Diced tomatoes
- Chopped green onions
- Sliced black olives
- Sour cream
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Meat: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or turkey and cook until browned. Drain any excess grease.
- Add Taco Seasoning: Stir in the taco seasoning mix and water. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Mix in Creamy Ingredients: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and ranch dressing until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Prepare the Cups: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Arrange the phyllo cups or wonton wrappers on a baking sheet.
- Assemble the Bites: Spoon the taco mixture into each cup, filling them generously.
- Bake: Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the cups are golden and crispy.
- Add Toppings: Top each bite with diced tomatoes, chopped green onions, and sliced black olives as desired. Serve warm with sour cream on the side.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, replace the ground meat with black beans or crumbled tofu.
- To make ahead, prepare the filling and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Assemble and bake just before serving.
- Leftover bites can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex