Description
These Taco Ranch Bites are a flavorful appetizer featuring seasoned ground beef and a creamy ranch topping, all served in crispy mini phyllo pastry cups. Ideal for parties and gatherings, they offer a delicious combination of textures and tastes that will delight your guests.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup diced green onions
- 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
- 1 package of mini phyllo pastry cups (15–20 cups)
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks.
- Cook the beef until it’s browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally for even cooking.
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep the filling from becoming greasy.
- Add the taco seasoning and 1/4 cup of water to the beef. Stir well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and ranch dressing. Blend until smooth and creamy using a hand mixer or whisk.
- Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, diced tomatoes, green onions, and black olives until evenly distributed.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the mini phyllo pastry cups on a baking sheet lined with a silicone mat or parchment paper.
- Add a spoonful of the beef mixture into each phyllo cup, leaving room for the creamy ranch mixture on top.
- Add a generous dollop of the creamy ranch mixture on top of the beef in each cup.
- Optionally, sprinkle a little extra shredded cheese on top for a cheesy finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the phyllo cups are golden brown and crispy.
- Keep an eye on them towards the end to prevent burning. The cheese should be melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro for added color and flavor.
- Serve warm or at room temperature. These bites are great for parties, game days, or casual gatherings.
- For an extra kick, serve with additional ranch dressing or salsa on the side for dipping.
Notes
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to maintain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes