Easy Taco Cups are a delightful and hassle-free way to enjoy a classic favorite! They’re perfect for busy weeknights, parties, or whenever you’re craving something satisfying and delicious. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create these customizable bites that everyone will love.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 350
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 600mg
Why Make Easy Taco Cups
Easy Taco Cups are not only quick to prepare but also incredibly versatile! You can easily swap out ingredients to accommodate dietary preferences, making them a go-to for family meals or casual gatherings. Plus, they’re packed with flavor, thanks to the seasoned meat and fresh toppings, making them a healthier alternative to traditional tacos if you load them up with veggies.
How to Make Easy Taco Cups Step by Step
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef or turkey
1 packet taco seasoning
12 mini taco shells or tortilla cups
1 cup shredded cheese
1 cup lettuce, shredded
1 cup diced tomatoes
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup sliced olives
Optional: jalapeños, salsa, or avocado
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or turkey until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the taco seasoning with a splash of water and mix until the meat is well coated.
- Place mini taco shells on a baking sheet, spaced evenly.
- Spoon the seasoned meat into each taco shell and top with shredded cheese.
- Bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and any optional toppings.
- Serve alongside a dollop of sour cream.
How to Serve Easy Taco Cups
Enjoy your Easy Taco Cups as a standalone dish or pair them with a fresh garden salad for a refreshing complement. You can also serve them with a side of guacamole or a zesty salsa to elevate the flavors even more. For a fun twist, consider adding sliced jalapeños for some heat!
How to Store Easy Taco Cups
Store any leftover Easy Taco Cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until heated through. You can also freeze unbaked taco cups for future meals; just assemble them and freeze before baking.
Expert Tips for Cooking Easy Taco Cups
- Use lean ground turkey for a healthier option.
- Feel free to add black beans or corn for extra texture and flavor.
- Leftover taco meat can also be used in quesadillas or burritos.
- For added flavor, use homemade taco seasoning instead of a packet.
- Top with fresh cilantro or green onions for an extra pop.
Delicious Variations of Easy Taco Cups
- Spicy Taco Cups: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder to the meat mixture for a kick.
- Vegetarian Taco Cups: Substitute ground meat with black beans or lentils, seasoned with the same taco spices.
- Citrus Taco Cups: Drizzle a bit of lime juice over the finished cups for a refreshing twist.
Conclusion
Give these Easy Taco Cups a try for an irresistible meal that’s full of flavor and simple to make. Whether you’re hosting a get-together or feeding the family, they’re bound to become a fast favorite. With their delightful taste and ease of preparation, Easy Taco Cups are a must-have recipe in your kitchen arsenal!
