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Taco Cupcakes: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.9 from 62 reviews
  • Author: Angela
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 18 minutes
  • Total Time: 28 minutes
  • Yield: 12 taco cupcakes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Description

These Taco Cupcakes offer a fun and flavorful twist on the classic taco by layering seasoned ground beef and cheese inside crispy baked wonton wrappers, creating a perfect handheld meal that’s both savory and satisfying.


Ingredients

Scale

Filling

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 packet taco seasoning mix
  • 1/2 cup water

Assembly

  • 24 wonton wrappers
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Optional Toppings

  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup salsa
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped


Instructions

  1. Preheat and prepare: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and spray a 12-cup muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Cook ground beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef for about 5-7 minutes until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat to keep the filling from becoming greasy.
  3. Season the meat: Stir in the taco seasoning mix and 1/2 cup water, then simmer for 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens, ensuring the flavors meld well. Remove from heat.
  4. Layer the wonton cups: Place one wonton wrapper into each muffin cup, pressing it against the bottom and sides to form a shell. Add a spoonful of the seasoned beef mixture followed by a small handful of the combined shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.
  5. Add a second layer: Place another wonton wrapper on top of the cheese layer and repeat the layering process with additional beef and cheese to build the taco cupcake.
  6. Bake: Bake the assembled taco cupcakes in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the wonton wrappers turn crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Serve: Allow the tacos to cool slightly in the muffin tin before carefully removing them. Garnish with sour cream, salsa, and chopped cilantro if desired for added flavor and freshness.

Notes

  • Ensure to drain excess fat from the ground beef to prevent soggy wonton wrappers.
  • Wonton wrappers crisp up nicely in the oven, making them great for handheld bites.
  • Customize with additional toppings like avocado, jalapeños, or hot sauce for extra flavor.
  • These taco cupcakes can be made ahead and reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.