Description
These Taco Ranch Bites are the ultimate party snack—crispy golden shells filled with seasoned taco meat, creamy ranch, melted cheese, and all your favorite toppings. They’re quick to make, super flavorful, and perfect for game day, potlucks, or whenever you need a fun finger food that disappears fast!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Filling
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For Assembly
- 24 mini phyllo shells or wonton cups
- 1/4 cup diced tomatoes
- 2 tbsp sliced green onions
- Sour cream, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until no longer pink, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease.
- Season: Stir in taco seasoning and water. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until thickened.
- Add ranch: Remove from heat and stir in ranch dressing. Let cool slightly.
- Assemble bites: Place mini phyllo shells or wonton cups on a baking sheet. Spoon beef mixture into each shell. Sprinkle cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 5–7 minutes, or until cheese is melted and shells are crisp.
- Top & serve: Garnish with diced tomatoes, green onions, and a small dollop of sour cream, if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
- For extra spice, add jalapeño slices or use pepper jack cheese.
- These can be prepped ahead—just fill the shells and refrigerate, then bake before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 bites
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: taco ranch bites, mini taco cups, party appetizers, game day snacks