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Taco Ranch Bites Recipe

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4.1 from 10 reviews

These Taco Ranch Bites are an irresistible party appetizer combining seasoned ground beef, sharp cheddar cheese, and creamy ranch dressing, all nestled in crispy phyllo cup shells. Perfectly baked until golden and bubbly, they make a deliciously savory bite-sized treat that will vanish quickly at any gathering.

Ingredients

Meat and Seasoning

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1 package (1 oz) taco seasoning mix
  • 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles, with juices

Dairy and Dressing

  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
  • 1 bottle (8 oz) ranch dressing

Shells

  • 5 packages (15 count each) frozen phyllo cup shells

Instructions

  1. Preheat and prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures it’s ready to bake your taco ranch bites immediately once they’re assembled.
  2. Brown the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat to avoid greasy filling.
  3. Add the flavor: Stir in the taco seasoning mix and the diced tomatoes with green chiles, including the juices. Allow the mixture to simmer together for about 5 minutes so the flavors meld perfectly.
  4. Create the creamy mixture: In a large bowl, combine the grated cheddar cheese and ranch dressing until smooth. Add the seasoned taco beef mixture and stir until fully incorporated into a creamy, cheesy blend.
  5. Fill those little cups: Using the frozen phyllo shells straight from the freezer, spoon a generous amount of the taco ranch mixture into each shell until well filled.
  6. Bake until golden: Place the filled phyllo cups on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes if the shells are thawed, or 10 to 13 minutes if still frozen, until the filling is hot and bubbly and the shells are golden and crisp.
  7. Serve these crowd-pleasers: Remove from the oven and let cool for a minute or two. Serve warm and enjoy watching them disappear at your next party or gathering!

Notes

  • Do not thaw frozen phyllo shells before filling; they bake best from frozen.
  • Drain excess grease from cooked beef to prevent soggy bites.
  • Adjust taco seasoning quantity to taste if you prefer milder or spicier bites.
  • Serve immediately for best texture, as phyllo shells can become soggy if left too long.
  • These bites can be prepared ahead by assembling and refrigerating, then baking right before serving.

Find it online: https://dishcooks.com/taco-ranch-bites-recipe/