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Taco-inspired dishes have surged in popularity over the years, captivating taste buds across the globe with their bold flavors and vibrant presentations. From traditional tacos to innovative variations, the versatility of these beloved Mexican meals continues to inspire home cooks and culinary enthusiasts alike. Among these delightful creations, Fiesta Mini Taco Cups stand out as a fun and engaging appetizer that perfectly captures the essence of taco night in a bite-sized format.

Mini Taco Cups with Cheese and Beef

Discover the delightful world of Fiesta Mini Taco Cups, a fun twist on traditional tacos that everyone will love! Perfect for parties or family dinners, these bite-sized treats allow for endless customization with your favorite toppings. Learn about the essential ingredients like ground beef, taco seasoning, and creamy cheddar cheese, and find out how easy it is to create these crowd-pleasers. Get ready to impress your guests with a dish that’s as delicious as it is engaging!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb ground beef

1 packet taco seasoning (about 1 oz)

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup refried beans

12 small flour taco bowls (or mini tortilla cups)

1 small red onion, finely chopped

1 cup diced tomatoes

1/2 cup black olives, sliced

1 small jalapeño, diced (optional for a spicy kick)

1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

1 cup sour cream (for serving)

Olive oil or cooking spray (for greasing the muffin tin)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it's ready for baking the taco cups.

    Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, heat over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook until fully browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep the mixture lean.

      Season the Beef: Stir in the taco seasoning, followed by 1/3 cup of water. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and the flavors meld beautifully. Remove from heat and set aside.

        Prepare the Taco Cups: Lightly grease a muffin tin with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Carefully place one flour taco bowl into each muffin tin cup, pressing them gently against the sides to shape them appropriately.

          Layer the Ingredients: In each taco bowl, add approximately one tablespoon of refried beans as the base layer. Follow this with a generous scoop of the seasoned beef mixture. Top each with a tablespoon of shredded cheddar cheese, allowing the cheese to melt beautifully during baking.

            Bake the Cups: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the edges of the taco cups become slightly crispy, enhancing their texture.

              Garnish and Serve: Upon removing the taco cups from the oven, let them cool for a few minutes. Decorate each mini taco cup with chopped red onion, diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, jalapeños (if using), and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor. Serve warm, accompanied by a dollop of sour cream on the side for a creamy finish.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 35 minutes | 12 servings