Taco Ranch Bites

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Flavorful: A tasty blend of taco-seasoned beef and cheese, complemented by creamy ranch dressing.

2. Quick and Easy: Simple to prepare with minimal ingredients and only 25 minutes from start to finish.

3. Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and freeze them for later, making party prep a breeze.

4. Crowd-Pleaser: These savory bites disappear quickly at any gathering.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb lean ground beef

• 1 packet taco seasoning

• 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes and green chiles (drained)

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup ranch dressing

• 30 frozen phyllo tart shells

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Cook the Beef: Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.

3. Season the Beef: Add taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, and chiles to the cooked beef. Stir and cook for 5 more minutes.

4. Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, combine the beef mixture with the shredded cheddar cheese and ranch dressing.

5. Fill the Shells: Spoon the beef and cheese mixture into the frozen phyllo tart shells.

6. Bake: Bake for 8-10 minutes or 10-13 minutes if frozen, until golden and bubbly.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 30 bites

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes

• Cooking Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace ground beef with black beans or veggie crumbles.

• Cheese Variations: Use pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist or a Mexican blend for a different flavor profile.

• Add Veggies: Include diced bell peppers, onions, or corn for added crunch and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes for the best texture.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble them and freeze them before baking. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works as a great substitute for ground beef.

Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack.

How do I prevent soggy phyllo shells?

Be sure to drain any excess liquid from the beef mixture before filling the shells.

Can I make these without ranch dressing?

You can substitute ranch with sour cream or even a chipotle ranch for a different flavor.

Conclusion

Taco Ranch Bites are a fun, easy-to-make appetizer perfect for any gathering. With taco-seasoned beef, cheese, and ranch dressing in crispy phyllo shells, they’re sure to be a hit at your next party or dinner. Make them ahead of time and freeze for a hassle-free snack that will impress your guests!