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Taco Ranch Bites Recipe

Taco Ranch Bites Recipe

5.1 from 6 reviews

Taco Ranch Bites are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer featuring a flavorful blend of seasoned ground beef, tomatoes, green chiles, cheddar cheese, and creamy ranch dressing, all baked in crispy phyllo tart shells. Perfect for parties, snack time, or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1 package (1 oz) taco seasoning
  • 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes and green chiles, undrained
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 bottle (8 oz) ranch dressing
  • 5 packages (15 count each) frozen phyllo tart shells

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking the bites.
  2. Cook Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is no longer pink, stirring occasionally. Drain off any excess fat to keep the bites from becoming greasy.
  3. Add Seasoning and Tomatoes: Stir in the taco seasoning packet along with the entire can of diced tomatoes and green chiles (undrained). Let this mixture cook for 5 more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  4. Combine Cheese and Ranch: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese and ranch dressing thoroughly. Then fold in the cooked taco meat mixture evenly.
  5. Fill Phyllo Shells: Spoon the prepared taco ranch mixture into each frozen phyllo tart shell, ensuring each shell is filled nicely without overfilling.
  6. Bake: Place the filled tart shells on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes if thawed, or 10 to 13 minutes if kept frozen, until the cheese is melted and the shells are crisp.

Notes

  • You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
  • For extra heat, add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture.
  • Let the baked tart shells cool slightly before serving to avoid burning your mouth.
  • These bites are best served fresh but can be reheated in the oven for a few minutes.
  • Use low-fat or reduced-sodium ranch dressing to reduce calories and sodium levels.

Nutrition

Keywords: taco ranch bites, appetizer, phyllo tart shells, ground beef appetizer, party snacks, Mexican fusion, easy recipes