Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just six ingredients and minimal preparation, these bites come together in no time.
- Crowd-Pleasing: The combination of taco-seasoned beef, ranch dressing, and cheese is a flavor trio that everyone loves.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare them in advance and freeze for later use, making them convenient for unexpected gatherings.
- Versatile: Customize with your favorite taco toppings or add-ins to suit your taste.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 (1 oz) packet taco seasoning
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes and green chiles, undrained
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 (8 oz) bottle ranch dressing
- 5 (15-count) packages frozen phyllo tart shells
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Season the Beef: Add the taco seasoning and diced tomatoes with green chiles to the beef. Stir and cook for 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the shredded cheddar cheese and ranch dressing with the seasoned beef mixture.
- Fill the Tart Shells: Spoon the beef mixture into the frozen phyllo tart shells.
- Bake: Place the filled tart shells on a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Approximately 75 bites
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño to the beef mixture for some heat.
- Cheese Options: Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a different flavor.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace ground beef with black beans and corn for a vegetarian alternative.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked tart shells filled with the beef mixture on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 12-15 minutes.
- Reheating: Reheat baked bites in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef.
Where can I find phyllo tart shells?
Phyllo tart shells are typically found in the frozen dessert section near puff pastry.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the bites and freeze them unbaked. When ready to serve, bake from frozen as directed.
How do I prevent the tart shells from getting soggy?
Ensure the beef mixture is not too watery by draining any excess liquid from the diced tomatoes and green chiles before adding them to the beef.
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Yes, finely chopped bell peppers or onions can be added to the beef mixture for extra flavor and texture.
Conclusion
Taco Ranch Bites are a simple yet flavorful appetizer that combines the classic tastes of a taco in a convenient, bite-sized form. Whether you’re hosting a party, tailgating, or just craving a savory snack, these bites are sure to satisfy. With their easy preparation and customizable ingredients, they’re a versatile addition to any gathering.
Taco Ranch Bites
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 75 bites
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Taco Ranch Bites are a delicious and easy appetizer featuring seasoned ground beef, creamy ranch dressing, and melted cheddar cheese in crisp phyllo tart shells. Perfect for parties, tailgates, or a quick snack, these bite-sized treats are sure to be a crowd favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 (1 oz) packet taco seasoning
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes and green chiles, undrained
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 (8 oz) bottle ranch dressing
- 5 (15-count) packages frozen phyllo tart shells
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Season the Beef: Add taco seasoning and diced tomatoes with green chiles to the beef. Stir and cook for 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the shredded cheddar cheese and ranch dressing with the seasoned beef mixture.
- Fill the Tart Shells: Spoon the beef mixture into the frozen phyllo tart shells.
- Bake: Place the filled tart shells on a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños to the beef mixture for a spicier bite.
- Cheese Variations: Try swapping cheddar with Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for different flavor profiles.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute ground beef with black beans and corn for a vegetarian alternative.
