Description
Taco Cupcakes are a fun and delicious twist on the classic taco, using crispy wonton wrappers to hold layers of seasoned ground beef, salsa, and melted cheese. Perfect as an appetizer or kid-friendly dinner, these bite-sized treats combine savory Mexican flavors with a convenient cupcake format that’s easy to make and serve.
Ingredients
Meat Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (if using lean meat)
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- â…“ cup water
Assembly
- 12 wonton wrappers
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup salsa
- Nonstick cooking spray
Toppings (optional)
- Sour cream
- Diced tomatoes
- Chopped green onions
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Tin: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a 12-cup muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make removal easier.
- Cook the Meat: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. If using lean meat, add the olive oil. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked through, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess grease to keep the taco mixture from being too oily.
- Season the Meat: Stir in the taco seasoning packet and ⅓ cup water into the cooked meat. Reduce heat and simmer for 3–4 minutes until the mixture thickens and the seasoning is well blended.
- Assemble Taco Cupcakes: Press one wonton wrapper into each muffin cup, forming a cup shape. Add a spoonful of the meat mixture, followed by a small spoonful of salsa, then sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese. Add another wonton wrapper on top of the cheese and repeat the layering with meat, salsa, and cheese.
- Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the edges of the wonton wrappers are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the tin from the oven and allow the taco cupcakes to cool slightly for easier handling. Carefully lift each cupcake out of the tin. Top with sour cream, diced tomatoes, and chopped green onions if desired, then serve.
Notes
- Swap ground beef for shredded chicken, black beans, or a vegetarian crumble to customize the protein.
- Use spicy salsa or pepper jack cheese to add some heat to the cupcakes.
- These taco cupcakes are perfect as party appetizers or a fun dinner option for kids.
