why make this recipe
Easy Taco Cups are a delightful, fun twist on traditional tacos. They are perfect for parties, game days, or even a quick family dinner. With crispy wonton wrappers filled with savory beef and melted cheese, these cups are both tasty and easy to make. Plus, they can be customized with your favorite toppings, allowing everyone to enjoy a meal that suits their tastes.
how to make Easy Taco Cups
Ingredients :
- 24 wonton wrappers (2 per cup)
- 1 lb. ground beef (I used 90/10)
- 1 (14.5 oz.) canned petite diced tomatoes (drained)
- 1¼ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ of a white onion, diced
- 1 Tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp 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, so I 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.
how to serve Easy Taco Cups
Serve Easy Taco Cups hot from the oven. You can place them on a large platter and let everyone add their favorite toppings, such as sour cream, guacamole, chopped cilantro, or fresh diced tomatoes. They make a great appetizer or a main dish paired with a side salad.
how to store Easy Taco Cups
If you have any leftover Taco Cups, allow them to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven to restore their crispiness.
tips to make Easy Taco Cups
- Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Try adding black beans or corn to the filling for extra flavor and texture.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, like pepper jack for a spicy kick.
variation
You can easily make vegetarian Taco Cups by substituting the ground beef with a mixture of sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or cooked lentils. This makes for a delicious alternative that still offers great flavor.
FAQs
Can I use something other than wonton wrappers?
Yes, you can use phyllo pastry or even tortilla chips if you prefer a different base for your cups.
How do I make these spicy?
To add heat, include diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture.
Can I make these in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the filling ahead of time and assemble the cups when you’re ready to bake them. They will taste just as delicious!
Easy Taco Cups
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees and spray a 12 cup muffin tin with cooking spray.
- 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, cooking 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).
- Place one wonton wrapper in the center of each cup of your prepared tin. Press it down slightly.
- Add a small layer of cheese and another wonton wrapper on top, pressing it down slightly to stick.
- Spoon one tablespoon of the ground beef mixture into each cup and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Bake in the oven for 13-17 minutes or until the wontons are toasted and the cheese has melted.
- Run a sharp knife around the edge of each cup and pop the taco cups out of the tin.
- Garnish with your favorite toppings and serve immediately.