Looking for a fun twist on taco night? These DIY Taco Cups are bite-sized, crispy, and packed with flavor. Perfect for parties or a cozy dinner at home, they're as easy to make as they are to eat.
Ground beef forms the hearty base of our taco cups, providing rich flavor and protein. Taco seasoning adds the essential blend of spices that give these cups their characteristic Mexican flair. Wonton wrappers are the secret to our crispy cups, offering a convenient and tasty shell. A generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese melts to gooey perfection over the beef. Salsa brings a burst of freshness and zing, while chopped fresh cilantro (if you like it) adds a bright, herbal note. And of course, a bit of salt and pepper to taste rounds everything out.
Pair these taco cups with a side of guacamole or a refreshing corn salad for a complete meal. They're also fantastic alongside some Spanish rice or a simple green salad to balance the richness.
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it's warming up, grab a skillet and set it over medium heat. Toss in the ground beef and cook until it's browned through, which should take about 7-10 minutes. Don't forget to drain the excess fat — nobody likes greasy taco cups!
Next, stir in the taco seasoning along with a splash of water. This will help the seasoning mix evenly with the meat. Let it all simmer together for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure everything is well combined.
Now, it's time to prep your muffin tin. Lightly grease each cup to prevent sticking, then gently press a wonton wrapper into each one to form a cup shape. The wrappers should fit snugly but don't worry if they aren't perfect — rustic is charming!
Spoon a tablespoon of the seasoned beef into each wonton cup. Don't overfill them; you want a little space for cheese and air to circulate. Speaking of cheese, sprinkle some shredded cheddar right on top of the beef.
Pop the muffin tin into your preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. You'll know they're done when the wonton edges are golden brown and the cheese is wonderfully melted. Allow them to cool slightly — just enough so you don't burn your fingers — then top each with a bit of salsa and a sprinkle of cilantro if you're using it.