Name: Taco Cupcakes: A Savory Twist on a Classic Treat
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: For the Cupcake Base: 12 wonton wrappers (or small tortilla rounds); 1 cup crushed tortilla chips (optional for added crunch); For the Taco Filling: 1 lb ground beef (or turkey/chicken); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons); ½ cup tomato sauce (or salsa); ½ cup black beans (optional); ½ cup corn kernels (optional); For the Cheese Layer: 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend); For the Topping: ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt; ½ cup pico de gallo (chopped tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, cilantro); ¼ cup chopped green onions or cilantro; 1 jalapeño, finely diced (optional); Optional Garnishes: Avocado slices or guacamole; Hot sauce or salsa; Fresh lime juice

Description

Taco cupcakes are a fun and delicious twist on the classic taco. These bite-sized treats are filled with seasoned taco meat, topped with cheese and fresh toppings like pico de gallo and sour cream. Perfect for parties, snacks, or a unique dinner option!

Ingredients

For the Cupcake Base:
- 12 wonton wrappers (or small tortilla rounds)
- 1 cup crushed tortilla chips (optional for added crunch)
For the Taco Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey/chicken)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons)
- ½ cup tomato sauce (or salsa)
- ½ cup black beans (optional)
- ½ cup corn kernels (optional)
For the Cheese Layer:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
For the Topping:
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- ½ cup pico de gallo (chopped tomatoes, onions, jalapeños, cilantro)
- ¼ cup chopped green onions or cilantro
- 1 jalapeño, finely diced (optional)
Optional Garnishes:
- Avocado slices or guacamole
- Hot sauce or salsa
- Fresh lime juice

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a muffin tin and line each cup with a wonton wrapper or small tortilla. Add a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips at the bottom for extra crunch.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onion until softened, about 3-4 minutes, then add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess grease.
Stir in the taco seasoning, tomato sauce, black beans, and corn. Simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Spoon the taco filling into each muffin cup, filling about 2/3 of the way. Top with shredded cheese.
Bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Top with sour cream or Greek yogurt, pico de gallo, chopped green onions, and jalapeños.
Serve with guacamole, hot sauce, or a squeeze of lime juice.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes