Taco Ranch Bites Recipe
Taco Ranch Bites are irresistible party appetizers featuring a creamy, cheesy taco meat filling nestled inside crispy phyllo cup shells. These easy-to-make, flavorful bites combine seasoned ground beef, diced tomatoes with green chiles, sharp cheddar cheese, and ranch dressing, baked to golden perfection. Perfect for gatherings, game days, or casual snacks.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 75 bites (5 packages x 15 cups each) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Meat Mixture
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 package (1 oz) taco seasoning mix
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles, with juices
Creamy Filling
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 bottle (8 oz) ranch dressing
Assembly
- 5 packages (15 count each) frozen phyllo cup shells
Instructions
- Preheat and prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready when your taco ranch bites are assembled.
- Brown the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the lean ground beef until fully browned and no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat to prevent greasy bites.
- Add the flavor: Stir in the taco seasoning mix and the entire can of diced tomatoes with green chiles, including the juices. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors meld together.
- Create the creamy mixture: In a large bowl, combine the grated sharp cheddar cheese and ranch dressing until well blended. Add the seasoned taco meat to this mixture and stir until you have a smooth, creamy filling.
- Fill those little cups: Without thawing, place a generous dollop of the taco ranch mixture into each frozen phyllo cup shell, filling them evenly.
- Bake until golden: Place the filled phyllo cups on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven. If using thawed shells, bake for 8-10 minutes; if frozen, bake for 10-13 minutes. Bake until the filling is hot, bubbly, and the shells turn golden and crispy.
- Serve these crowd-pleasers: Allow the bites to cool slightly for a minute or two, then serve warm. These tasty appetizers are sure to disappear quickly at any party or gathering!
Notes
- Do not thaw phyllo cups before filling; they bake perfectly from frozen.
- Drain the cooked beef well to keep the bites from becoming greasy.
- Feel free to add jalapeños or extra spices for more heat.
- Cheddar cheese can be swapped with a Mexican blend for a different flavor profile.
- Serve with salsa or guacamole on the side for extra dipping fun.
Keywords: taco ranch bites, phyllo cup appetizers, party snacks, cheesy tacos, easy appetizers
Find it online: https://kitchenbyrita.com/taco-ranch-bites-recipe/
