Taco Cups Ground Beef Cheese

The first time I made these for a Super Bowl party, my friend Sarah actually asked where I ordered them from. When I told her they came out of my oven in under 40 minutes, she demanded the recipe right there. Now they're my go-to whenever I need something that looks impressive but doesn't require me to miss half the party while cooking.

I've learned the hard way that doubling this recipe is almost always necessary. Last time I made a single batch for a small gathering, my brother-in-law stood by the kitchen counter and ate six before anyone else even knew they were ready. Now I always make at least 24, and they still disappear faster than anything else on the table.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef: The 85% lean ratio gives you enough fat for flavor without excessive grease, though I've also used ground turkey with great success
• 1 packet taco seasoning: Homemade seasoning works beautifully too, just mix chili powder, cumin, paprika, and a pinch of cayenne
• 1/3 cup water: Helps the seasoning coat the meat evenly and creates that perfect thick consistency you want in a taco filling
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder and onion powder: These little extras add depth that makes people ask what your secret ingredient is
• 12 small flour tortillas: Street taco size is ideal because they fit the muffin cups without much folding or tearing
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Mexican cheese blend works wonderfully too, and sometimes I mix half sharp cheddar with half Monterey Jack
• 1/2 cup salsa: I use restaurant-style salsa because it has the right chunkiness, and I always add extra for serving
• Optional toppings: Sour cream, green onions, and fresh cilantro add those restaurant-quality touches that make everything feel special

Instructions

Prepare your oven and muffin tin:

Preheat to 375°F and give your muffin tin a light spray of nonstick cooking spray, paying attention to getting those hard to reach corners

Create the tortilla cups:

Use a round cookie cutter or drinking glass to cut circles from your tortillas, then press each circle into a muffin cup, folding any overhanging edges so they fit snugly

Cook the beef:

Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it up with your spoon as it cooks for about 5 to 6 minutes

Add the flavor:

Stir in the taco seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and water, then let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture thickens nicely

Fill the cups:

Spoon about 1 to 2 tablespoons of the seasoned beef into each tortilla cup, then add a spoonful of salsa on top of each one

Add the cheese and bake:

Sprinkle each cup generously with shredded cheese and bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the cheese is perfectly melted and bubbly

Cool and serve:

Let them rest for 2 to 3 minutes in the tin so the cups set, then carefully remove each one and add your favorite toppings

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These have become such a staple at our house that my five-year-old now asks for taco cups instead of regular tacos on Tuesday nights. Something about having your own little cup makes everything taste better, and I love that we can customize each one with different toppings.

Make-Ahead Magic

You can cook and season the beef up to two days in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The morning of your party, cut and shape all the tortilla cups in the muffin tin, cover tightly with foil, and keep at room temperature. When you're ready to bake, just fill and pop them in the oven.

Perfect Party Planning

I've found that these stay warm for about 30 minutes after baking if you keep them on a warming tray or in a 200°F oven. Set up a toppings bar with bowls of sour cream, guacamole, pico de gallo, and jalapeños so guests can customize their own cups. It's interactive and fun.

Mix It Up

The beauty of these cups is how versatile they are. Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free version or swap the beef for shredded chicken, carnitas, or even a vegetarian black bean and corn mixture. Sometimes I make breakfast cups with scrambled eggs, bacon, and cheese.

• Try adding a layer of refried beans at the bottom before the beef for extra heartiness
• A sprinkle of crushed nacho cheese Doritos on top adds the most incredible crunch
• Make them spicier by mixing diced jalapeños directly into the cheese topping

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These little cups have a way of bringing people together, hovering around the platter, reaching for seconds, and asking when you'll make them again. That's the best kind of recipe there is.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of beef works best?

Lean ground beef around 85% lean offers a good balance of flavor and fat for juicy, tender filling.

→ Can other proteins be used?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can substitute for a lighter option without compromising flavor.

→ How do I make the tortilla cups crispy?

Pressing tortilla pieces firmly into a muffin tin and baking at 375°F until golden ensures crispy shells.

→ What toppings complement the cups well?

Sour cream, green onions, cilantro, and salsa add creaminess, freshness, and extra zest.

→ Are there gluten-free options?

Using gluten-free tortillas allows adapting the dish for gluten-sensitive diets.