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Extreme close-up of Taco Ranch Bites with melted orange cheddar and seasoned beef inside a toasted tortilla cup. (Taco Ranch Bites)

Taco Ranch Bites: The Ultimate Crispy Tortilla Cup Appetizer

Crispy golden baked mini tortilla cups filled with savory seasoned ground beef, melted sharp cheddar cheese, and a thick, creamy ranch drizzle. The perfect 30-minute party appetizer for game day or family snack night.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 24 bites
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American, Mexican-Fusion
Calories: 115
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Recipe Ingredients
  • 6 large Flour Tortillas Cut into 24 3-inch circles
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil Or cooking spray for crisping
  • 1 lb Ground Beef 80/20 lean recommended
  • 2 tbsp Taco Seasoning Store-bought or homemade
  • 1/4 cup Water 60ml
  • 1.5 cups Cheddar Cheese 150g, shredded orange sharp cheddar
  • 1/2 cup Ranch Dressing 120ml, thick creamy variety

Equipment

  • 1 Standard Muffin Tin 12-cup capacity
  • 1 3-inch Round Cutter To cut tortilla circles
  • 1 Large Skillet For browning beef

Instructions
 

Shell Preparation
  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut 24 circles from the tortillas and lightly coat with oil.
  2. Press circles into muffin tin and bake for 6-8 minutes until crispy and golden.
Filling and Assembly
  1. Brown beef in a skillet, drain fat, add seasoning and water, and simmer until thick.
  2. Fill cups with beef and cheese; bake 2-3 minutes until cheese is fully melted.
  3. Allow to cool slightly, then apply a thick drizzle of ranch dressing over each bite.

Notes

Use a block of cheese and shred it yourself for the best melt.
Don't add the ranch until serving to keep the shells crunchy.
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