These Lil Taco Cups are a fun and tasty twist on traditional tacos! With crispy tortilla cups filled with seasoned ground beef, fresh veggies, and cheesy goodness, they’re perfect for parties or snack time.
They’re so easy to make, and trust me, it’s hard to eat just one! I love serving them with a side of salsa or guacamole for that extra zing. Perfect for sharing, or not! 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Wonton Wrappers: These create the perfect crispy cup. If you can’t find wonton wrappers, try using tortilla chips or small tortillas instead. Just cut and shape them into mini cups!
Ground Beef: I love using lean ground beef for a healthier option. You can swap it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. For a vegetarian option, try crumbled tofu or a mix of beans and mushrooms.
Black Beans: These add great texture and protein. If beans are not your thing, use corn or skip them altogether. Refried beans also work well as a base.
Cheddar Cheese: I prefer sharp cheddar for a stronger flavor, but feel free to swap in Monterey Jack or a dairy-free cheese if needed. Cheese gives that melty goodness fans love!
Sour Cream: If you’re looking for a lighter version, Greek yogurt is a great substitute. You can also use avocado crema or skip the dairy entirely for a non-dairy option.
How Do I Get My Wonton Cups Extra Crispy?
You want those wonton cups to be perfectly crisp, and it’s easier than you think! Follow these steps to get it right:
- Preheat your oven and spray the muffin tin well—this helps the wontons crisp up evenly.
- Make sure you press the wonton wrappers gently into the muffin cups to fit snugly.
- Bake them until they’re lightly golden; they should be crispy after baking, around 8-10 minutes.
- Let them cool in the pan for a few minutes to give them that extra crunch.
Trust me, crispy cups are key to an amazing taco experience! Enjoy your Lil Taco Cups! 🌮
How to Make Lil Taco Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 wonton wrappers
- 1/2 lb (225 g) ground beef
- 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (or pico de gallo)
- 1/2 cup diced avocado
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1/4 cup diced onion
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or a little oil for greasing the muffin tin
Time You’ll Need:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and 15 minutes for cooking, totaling about 30 minutes from start to finish. Quick, right? You’ll have delicious appetizers ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, take a muffin tin and spray it with cooking spray, or lightly grease it with a little oil. This will help your wonton cups release easily later.
2. Shape the Wonton Cups:
Take each wonton wrapper and gently press it into the muffin cups, forming little cups that will hold all the yummy fillings. Bake them for about 8-10 minutes, keeping an eye on them until they are lightly golden and crispy. Once baked, remove the tin from the oven and let the cups cool slightly.
3. Cook the Filling:
In a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil and toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until they become soft and fragrant, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Now, add the ground beef to the skillet, cooking it until it’s browned. Use a spatula to break it up into crumbles. Don’t forget to drain any extra fat if needed!
4. Season the Meat:
Add the taco seasoning and a splash of water (about 2 tablespoons) to the beef mixture. Stir everything together and let it cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together. Then, toss in the black beans, cook for one more minute, and remove from heat.
5. Assemble the Taco Cups:
Now it’s time to fill those crispy wonton cups! Spoon the beef and bean mixture into each cup, filling them generously. Next, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of each one.
6. Bake Again:
Pop the filled cups back into the oven for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is wonderfully melted. This will make your taco cups even more delicious!
7. Final Touches:
After removing the taco cups from the oven, it’s time for the finishing touches. Top each cup with a small dollop of sour cream, diced avocado, fresh diced tomatoes or pico de gallo, and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for a fresh burst of flavor.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Your Lil Taco Cups are ready to serve! They’re perfect for parties, movie nights, or just as a fun snack. Enjoy every bite of these tasty, bite-sized treats!
These Lil Taco Cups are sure to be a crowd-pleaser, packed with flavor and easy to eat. Enjoy the deliciousness! 🌮🎉
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to ground beef. Just make sure to season it well, as turkey can be a bit milder in flavor. You might need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Can I Prepare the Cups in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the wonton cups ahead of time. Just bake them, let them cool, and store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, fill them with the beef mixture and cheese, then bake until warmed through!
How Should I Store Leftover Taco Cups?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave until heated through. Keep in mind that the wonton cups may become a little less crispy upon reheating.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Definitely! You can substitute the ground beef with a mix of black beans, corn, and diced bell peppers or use crumbled tofu seasoned with taco spices. This will keep all the delicious flavors while making it vegetarian-friendly!
