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Tacos have long been a beloved staple in many households, celebrated for their incredible versatility and bold flavors. Whether filled with seasoned meats, fresh vegetables, or zesty sauces, these handheld delights can cater to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences. However, as much as we adore traditional tacos, there is something uniquely appealing about presenting them in a fun, bite-sized format. Enter the mini taco cup—an exciting twist on the classic taco that transforms your favorite ingredients into delightful little cups perfect for any gathering.

Mini Taco Cups with Cheese and Beef

Discover the delightful world of mini taco cups with cheese and beef! This fun and tasty twist on traditional tacos transforms your favorite ingredients into bite-sized appetizers perfect for gatherings or family dinners. With customizable fillings and toppings, these mini delights are not only visually appealing but also incredibly easy to enjoy without the mess. From creamy cheese to zesty salsa, each cup bursts with flavor and is sure to impress your guests. Dive into this simple recipe and elevate your next meal with these crowd-pleasing treats!

Ingredients
  

1 lb ground beef

1 packet taco seasoning

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup salsa (choose mild, medium, or spicy based on your heat preference)

12 small flour tortillas (corn tortillas can be used as an alternative)

1 cup refried beans

1 cup guacamole

1 cup sour cream

2 green onions, finely chopped

Optional toppings: fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to preheat at 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking.

    Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook the beef for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s nicely browned, stirring frequently to break it up. Once browned, drain any excess fat. Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the meat and mix well. Follow the instructions on the seasoning package, usually adding a small amount of water, then let it simmer for a few minutes until the flavors meld together.

      Prepare Tortilla Cups: While the beef is cooking, lightly grease a muffin tin with cooking spray or oil. Using a round cookie cutter or a drinking glass, cut circles from each tortilla that are slightly larger than the muffin cups. Carefully press each tortilla circle into a muffin cup, shaping them into little cups.

        Layer the Ingredients: Start by adding a spoonful of refried beans to the bottom of each tortilla cup. Next, spoon in a generous amount of the seasoned ground beef, and finally, top it with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese.

          Bake: Transfer the muffin tin to the preheated oven. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the tortillas turn golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is beautifully melted.

            Add Salsa: Once the mini taco cups are done baking, remove them from the oven. Top each one with a spoonful of salsa and a sprinkle of chopped green onions for a burst of flavor.

              Serve with Sides: Serve the mini taco cups warm, accompanied by sides of guacamole and sour cream. Feel free to add optional toppings such as cilantro, sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, or shredded lettuce based on your liking.

                Enjoy: Dig into your delightful mini taco cups! They’re not just fun to eat, but bursting with flavors that will please your taste buds!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 30 min | 12 servings