Description
These Taco Ranch Bites are a tasty appetizer made with seasoned ground beef or turkey, creamy cheeses, and fresh toppings, all served in crispy mini phyllo pastry cups. Ideal for parties or family gatherings, they are easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (about 1 ounce)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned, drained)
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced (optional)
- 1 package of mini phyllo pastry cups (about 15–20 cups)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef (or turkey). Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula (about 5-7 minutes).
- Drain any excess fat. Sprinkle taco seasoning over the meat and add about 1/4 cup of water. Stir well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- In a separate bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, and ranch dressing. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Once the meat is ready, let it cool for a few minutes before adding it to the cream cheese mixture. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, diced tomatoes, green onions, and black olives (if using) until well combined.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Take the mini phyllo pastry cups out of their packaging and place them on a baking sheet, spaced evenly.
- Using a small spoon or piping bag, fill each phyllo cup with the taco ranch filling, being careful not to overfill.
- Sprinkle a little extra cheddar cheese on top of each filled cup.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the phyllo cups are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the bites cool for a few minutes.
- Transfer the bites to a serving platter and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
- Serve warm with extra ranch dressing or salsa on the side for dipping.
Notes
- Customize the filling by adding black beans, corn, or jalapeños for extra flavor.
- For a vegetarian option, replace the meat with a mix of beans and veggies.
- Keep an eye on the phyllo cups while baking to prevent burning.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes