Ingredients
Creating the perfect Mini Loaded Taco Cups requires a selection of fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Taco Shells: Mini soft taco shells or wonton wrappers (for a crispy version)
- Ground Beef: 1 pound, preferably lean
- Taco Seasoning: 1 packet or homemade mix
- Onions: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Tomato Sauce: 1 cup
- Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup, shredded
- Lettuce: Shredded, for topping
- Sour Cream: For topping
- Tomatoes: Diced, for topping
- Cilantro: Chopped, for garnish
- Jalapeños: Sliced, optional for a spicy kick
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon for cooking
Instructions
Making Mini Loaded Taco Cups is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to create a delicious appetizer:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Taco Shells:
- If using mini taco shells, place them on a baking tray. For wonton wrappers, press each wrapper into the wells of a muffin tin to create a cup shape.
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, sauté until onions are translucent.
- Add ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- Drain excess fat and return the skillet to the heat.
- Season the Beef:
- Stir in taco seasoning and tomato sauce. Mix well to combine.
- Simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Taco Cups:
- Spoon the seasoned beef mixture into each taco shell or wonton cup, filling them about three-quarters full.
- Add Cheese:
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the beef mixture in each cup.
- Bake:
- Place the tray or muffin tin in the preheated oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the shells are crispy.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, a dollop of sour cream, and garnish with cilantro and jalapeños if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: one normal portion
- Calories: 150
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 10g