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Taco Cups


  • Author: Rayne
  • Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 small flour tortillas (or corn tortillas for a gluten-free option)
  • 1 lb ground Halal beef (or ground chicken/turkey for a leaner option)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning)
  • ½ cup water
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of Mexican cheeses)
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • ½ cup diced tomatoes
  • ¼ cup sliced black olives (optional)
  • ¼ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a healthier option)
  • Salsa (optional, for serving)
  • 1 jalapeño, sliced (optional, for added heat)
  • Cilantro for garnish (optional)
  • Lime wedges (for serving)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Ground Halal Beef: Halal beef ensures the recipe is safe for everyone to enjoy, and it provides a rich, flavorful base for the taco cups.
  • Taco Seasoning: A great taco seasoning mix enhances the flavor of the meat, adding that delicious savory, slightly spicy taste that’s signature to tacos.
  • Shredded Cheese: The cheese melts perfectly, giving the taco cups an extra gooey texture.
  • Fresh Veggies and Toppings: Fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and olives provide a satisfying crunch and balance out the savory filling. Add sour cream, salsa, and jalapeños for that perfect taco experience.

Instructions

Prepare the Tortilla Cups:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin with non-stick spray or olive oil to prevent the taco cups from sticking.
  2. Shape the Tortillas: Using a cookie cutter, cup, or the rim of a glass, cut the tortillas into smaller rounds, slightly bigger than the muffin cups. Gently press each tortilla round into a muffin tin, creating a little bowl shape. Bake the tortilla cups for 8-10 minutes or until crispy and golden brown. Remove from the oven and set aside.

Prepare the Taco Meat:

  1. Cook the Ground Meat: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the ground Halal beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Add Seasoning and Simmer: Add the taco seasoning and ½ cup of water to the meat. Stir well to combine and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, until the sauce thickens and coats the meat. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove from heat.

Assemble the Taco Cups:

  1. Fill the Tortilla Cups: Once the tortilla cups are baked and slightly cooled, fill each cup with the seasoned ground meat mixture. Press it down gently to fit the filling.
  2. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese) on top of the meat filling. Return the taco cups to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Add Fresh Toppings:

  1. Top with Fresh Ingredients: Remove the taco cups from the oven. Top each with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, black olives (if using), a dollop of sour cream, and any other desired toppings like salsa or jalapeño slices.
  2. Garnish: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side for a zesty finish.

Serve and Enjoy:

  1. Serve: These Taco Cups are perfect for serving as appetizers, snacks, or a main dish. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven with your favorite dipping sauces, or let your guests assemble their own toppings for a fun taco bar experience!
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 200
  • Fat: 12G
  • Carbohydrates: 18G
  • Protein: 15G