Taco Ranch Bites
These crispy and flavorful Taco Ranch Bites are a must-try appetizer! Made with seasoned ground beef, tangy Ranch dressing, and melted cheddar cheese served in delicate phyllo tart shells, they’re perfect for entertaining or snacking. With just 25 minutes from start to finish, they’re a quick and delicious treat!
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef lean recommended
- 1 oz packet taco seasoning
- 1 can 10 oz diced tomatoes and green chiles, undrained
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese sharp or aged preferred
- 8 oz bottle Ranch dressing
- 5 packs of 15-count frozen phyllo tart shells
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF.
- Cook the Meat: Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain the grease and return the skillet to the heat.
- Season and Simmer: Add the taco seasoning and undrained diced tomatoes with green chiles to the beef. Stir well and simmer for 5 minutes to combine the flavors. Remove from heat.
- Mix the Filling: In a bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese and Ranch dressing. Stir the cheese mixture into the seasoned beef until fully incorporated.
- Fill the Shells: Spoon the taco meat mixture into the frozen phyllo tart shells, filling them generously. If freezing for later, stop here and freeze the tarts.
- Bake the Tarts: Place the filled tart shells on a baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted. For frozen tarts, bake for an additional 2–3 minutes.
- Serve Warm: Let the tarts cool for a few minutes before serving. Optionally, garnish with sour cream, cilantro, or green onions for added flavor.
Notes
Freezer-Friendly: These tarts can be prepped and frozen before baking, making them perfect for party planning.
Toppings: Add sour cream, diced green onions, or chopped cilantro for a pop of freshness.
Storage Tip: Leftover baked tarts can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven for a crisp texture.
Customization: Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Toppings: Add sour cream, diced green onions, or chopped cilantro for a pop of freshness.
Storage Tip: Leftover baked tarts can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven for a crisp texture.
Customization: Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.