Description
Taco Cupcakes are a fun and flavorful appetizer that layers seasoned ground beef, refried beans, salsa, and cheddar cheese inside crispy wonton wrappers baked to golden perfection. These bite-sized taco cups make a perfect party snack or easy weeknight treat, garnished with sour cream and fresh green onions or cilantro for a delicious Mexican-inspired twist.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1/4 cup water
Assembly
- 12 wonton wrappers
- 1/2 cup refried beans
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup salsa
- Cooking spray
Toppings (Optional)
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- Chopped green onions or cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Muffin Tin: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly spray a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, then drain any excess fat. Stir in the taco seasoning and water, then simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until the mixture thickens and flavors meld together.
- Form Wonton Cups: Place one wonton wrapper into each muffin cup, pressing gently to form a cup shape that will hold the fillings.
- Layer the Ingredients: Start each wonton cup by adding a spoonful of refried beans, followed by a layer of seasoned taco beef, then a small spoonful of salsa. Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese on top of these layers.
- Add Top Wonton Layer: Place a second wonton wrapper over the layered filling and repeat the layering process (beans, beef, salsa, cheese). Finish by topping each cup with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake: Bake the assembled taco cupcakes in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the wonton edges are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the taco cupcakes to cool for a few minutes in the muffin tin, then gently remove each one. Optionally, top with sour cream and garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro before serving.
Notes
- Substitute ground turkey or black beans to make a lighter or vegetarian version of this recipe.
- Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the meat mixture if you prefer a spicier flavor.
- These taco cupcakes freeze well and can be reheated for convenient meal prep or quick snacks.
