Description
These Taco Ranch Bites are crispy phyllo tart shells filled with seasoned taco meat, melty cheese, and creamy ranch dressing. Perfect for parties, game days, or casual gatherings, these bite-sized appetizers are bursting with flavor and easy to make in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably lean)
- 1 oz packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes and green chiles, undrained
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 bottle (8 oz) ranch dressing
- 5 packages (15-count each) frozen phyllo tart shells
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Seasoning and Tomatoes: Stir in the taco seasoning and the undrained diced tomatoes with green chiles. Cook for 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Mix with Cheese and Dressing: In a large bowl, combine shredded cheddar cheese, ranch dressing, and the cooked taco mixture until well mixed.
- Fill the Phyllo Shells: Spoon the mixture into the frozen phyllo tart shells, filling each one.
- Bake: Place the filled tart shells on a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. If baking from frozen, add an extra 2-3 minutes.
- Serve: Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!
Notes
- Meat Alternatives: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken.
- Vegetarian Option: Use black beans, corn, and diced bell peppers instead of meat.
- Different Cheese: Try Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a Mexican blend.
- Spicy Kick: Use hot diced tomatoes with green chiles or add cayenne pepper.
- Flavor Twist: Swap ranch dressing for spicy ranch or cilantro-lime dressing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex