Taco Ranch Bites Recipe
Introduction
Taco Ranch Bites are a delightful, easy-to-make appetizer that combines savory taco flavors with creamy Ranch dressing in a crispy phyllo tart shell. Perfect for parties or a fun snack, these bites bring a burst of flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably lean)
- 1 oz packet taco seasoning (premium brand)
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes and green chiles, undrained
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (preferably aged for richer flavor)
- 8 oz bottle premium Ranch dressing
- 5 packs of 15-count frozen phyllo tart shells
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350ºF.
- Step 2: In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
- Step 3: Stir in the taco seasoning, then add the can of diced tomatoes and green chiles with their juices. Mix well and simmer for 5 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Step 4: In a separate bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese with the Ranch dressing. Mix this cheese and dressing mixture into the cooked taco meat until evenly blended.
- Step 5: Carefully spoon the taco meat mixture into the frozen phyllo tart shells. If you want to prepare ahead, freeze the assembled tart shells at this stage.
- Step 6: Arrange the filled tarts on a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes. If baking from frozen, add an additional 2-3 minutes to ensure they heat through completely.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crispiness, lightly brush the phyllo tart shells with melted butter before filling.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- Add chopped fresh cilantro or sliced jalapeños to the meat mixture for added freshness and heat.
- Serve with a side of sour cream or guacamole for dipping.
Storage
Store any leftover Taco Ranch Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a preheated oven at 350ºF for about 5-7 minutes until heated through and crispy. If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make these bites ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the filled tart shells and freeze them before baking. When ready, bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While aged cheddar adds a rich flavor, you can substitute with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for a different taste.
PrintTaco Ranch Bites Recipe
Taco Ranch Bites are flavorful, bite-sized appetizers featuring seasoned ground beef mixed with diced tomatoes, green chiles, shredded cheddar cheese, and creamy Ranch dressing, all served in crispy phyllo tart shells. Perfect for parties or game day, these savory treats are baked until golden and melty, delivering a delicious Mexican-inspired taste in every bite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 75 taco ranch bites (5 packs x 15 tart shells each) 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Ingredients
Meat Mixture
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 oz packet premium taco seasoning
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes and green chiles, undrained
Cheese & Dressing Mix
- 2 cups shredded aged cheddar cheese
- 8 oz bottle premium Ranch dressing
Shells
- 5 packs of 15-count frozen phyllo tart shells
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF to prepare for baking the tart shells later.
- Cook Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the lean ground beef until fully cooked and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat to keep the filling lean.
- Add Seasoning: Stir in the packet of taco seasoning, then add the undrained can of diced tomatoes and green chiles. Mix well and let it simmer for 5 minutes to blend the flavors before removing from heat.
- Prepare Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese with the Ranch dressing until well mixed. Then add this creamy mixture to the cooked taco meat and stir to combine thoroughly.
- Assemble Tarts: Carefully spoon the taco meat and cheese mixture into each frozen phyllo tart shell, filling them generously but without overflowing. If you want to prepare ahead, you can freeze the filled tarts at this stage.
- Bake: Place the filled tarts on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and the shells are crispy. If baking from frozen, increase bake time by 2 to 3 more minutes to ensure they heat through properly.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and calories.
- For a spicier flavor, opt for a hot taco seasoning or add jalapeños to the meat mixture.
- Ensure the tart shells are fully thawed before assembling for best texture if not freezing.
- These bites can be made ahead and frozen to bake fresh when needed.
- Serve warm for best taste and texture.
Keywords: taco bites, ranch appetizer, phyllo tart recipe, party appetizers, ground beef tartlets, baked snacks
