Name: Easy Taco Cups Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 32 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb. ground beef (90/10); ½ white onion, diced; 1 (14.5 oz.) canned petite diced tomatoes, drained; 1 Tbsp chili powder; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp paprika; ½ tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp onion powder; ½ tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 24 wonton wrappers (2 per cup); 1¼ cups shredded cheddar cheese; Cooking spray (for muffin tin); Sour cream; Guacamole; Chopped cilantro; Diced tomatoes

If you’re craving a fun and flavorful twist on traditional tacos, you have to try this Easy Taco Cups Recipe. It transforms simple ingredients into crunchy, cheesy little cups filled with savory ground beef and zesty spices, perfect for parties, snack time, or an easy weeknight dinner. These taco cups are as delightful to eat as they are to make, combining that beloved taco flavor with a convenient handheld presentation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a flat layout of cooking ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. There is a clear plastic package with ground beef on the top left, a red and white package of small pastry squares with a dipping sauce photo on the bottom left, and a white bowl filled with chopped white onions in the center. To the right of the onions, there is a white bowl with shredded yellow cheddar cheese. Behind the cheese bowl, there is a white can with a red label containing tomatoes. At the bottom of the image, arranged in a line across the surface, are small piles of different spices in brown, red, beige, and white shades. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step in making this dish truly shine. Each component plays a crucial role — the crispy wonton wrappers add crunch, the seasoned beef delivers rich flavor, and the cheese melds it all together with gooey goodness. Together, these simple ingredients create a spectacular and satisfying bite.

Wonton wrappers (24): These provide a sturdy yet crispy base for your taco cups, creating the perfect edible vessel.
Ground beef (1 lb, 90/10): Lean and flavorful, it forms the hearty filling that packs the taco punch.
Canned petite diced tomatoes (14.5 oz, drained): Adds a fresh, juicy element and balances the savory beef with a little acidity.
Shredded cheddar cheese (1¼ cups): Melts beautifully to bind layers and adds sharp, creamy notes.
White onion (½, diced): Brings sweet and savory depth to the beef mixture.
Chili powder (1 Tbsp): The key spice that adds warmth and authentic taco flavor.
Cumin (1 tsp): Gives a smoky, earthy background for the seasoning blend.
Paprika (1 tsp): Adds subtle smokiness and vibrant color.
Garlic powder (½ tsp): Enhances the overall aroma without overpowering.
Onion powder (½ tsp): Boosts the onion flavor for a well-rounded profile.
Salt (½ tsp): Brings all the flavors together and balances the dish.
Black pepper (½ tsp): Adds a gentle kick and warmth.
Optional toppings: Sour cream, guacamole, chopped cilantro, fresh tomatoes – personalize your cups with your favorites!

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Easy Taco Cups Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by setting your oven to 400 degrees and generously spraying a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray. This simple prep prevents sticking and ensures your taco cups slip out easily once baked.

Step 2: Cook the Taco Filling

Heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in your diced onion and sauté until they become soft and translucent, releasing their sweetness. Next, add the ground beef along with all the spices — chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic and onion powders, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned, about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring to break up any clumps. Finally, stir in the drained diced tomatoes and let the mixture simmer until most of the liquid evaporates, about 5 to 7 minutes. This slow reduction concentrates the flavors beautifully.

Step 3: Assemble the Taco Cups

Line each muffin cup with one wonton wrapper, pressing it gently to conform to the shape, creating a crispy little shell. Sprinkle a small layer of cheese, then add a second wonton wrapper on top, pressing lightly so it adheres to the cheese layer below. Spoon about one tablespoon of the seasoned beef mixture into each cup, then sprinkle the remaining cheese on top to lock everything in.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 13 to 17 minutes. You’re aiming for the wontons to turn a beautiful golden brown and the cheese to melt gloriously. I prefer mine on the crispier side, so I usually go closer to 17 minutes, but keep a close eye after 10 minutes to avoid burning. Once baked, run a sharp knife around each cup’s edge and carefully pop them out of the tin.

Step 5: Garnish and Enjoy!

The final flourish involves topping your taco cups with whatever you like best — creamy sour cream, fresh guacamole, vibrant cilantro, or juicy diced tomatoes. Serve immediately for the best crunch and flavor.

How to Serve Easy Taco Cups Recipe

Twelve small white pastry cups are placed in a metal muffin tray on a white marbled surface. Each pastry cup is filled with a dark, chunky filling and topped generously with bright orange shredded cheese, creating a colorful contrast. A bowl of extra shredded cheese sits nearby on the surface, with some cheese scattered around it. The setup looks ready to go into the oven, showing neat rows of the filled pastry cups. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding the right garnishes can elevate your Easy Taco Cups Recipe from delicious to downright unforgettable. Dollops of sour cream add cooling creaminess, while freshly chopped cilantro injects a hint of herbal brightness. Avocado-based guacamole brings richness, and chopped tomatoes or jalapeños add that fresh contrast and zing that make every bite sing.

Side Dishes

This recipe works beautifully alongside a crisp salad or a side of Mexican street corn (elote) for a full festive spread. Simple sliced veggies or even a bowl of salsa or pico de gallo complete the experience by adding freshness and balance to the richness of the taco cups.

Creative Ways to Present

These taco cups can steal the show at any gathering. Serve them on a colorful platter with small bowls of different dips and garnishes, so guests can customize their own. You can also try stacking them on tiered trays for a mini taco tower presentation, making the casual appetizer feel extra special and fun.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, place your Easy Taco Cups Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Because the wonton wrappers can soften once cooled, it’s best to enjoy them within this timeframe for maximum crispness.

Freezing

You can freeze the assembled but unbaked taco cups by tightly wrapping the muffin tin with plastic wrap and foil or transferring cups to a freezer-safe container once baked and cooled. Freeze for up to 1 month. To bake from frozen, add a few extra minutes to the baking time and watch for perfect golden crispiness.

Reheating

To reheat, place your taco cups in a preheated oven at 350 degrees for about 8 to 10 minutes. This will revive the crisp texture and melt the cheese once more, unlike the microwave which can make them soggy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground chicken or even turkey can be a delicious and lighter alternative that still works wonderfully with the spices and assembly of this Easy Taco Cups Recipe.

Are there vegetarian options for this recipe?

Yes! Swap the beef for black beans, cooked lentils, or a seasoned vegetable crumble to keep the flavors alive without meat. Add a bit of extra cheese or a dollop of guacamole for richness.

What if I don’t have wonton wrappers?

You can try using small tortillas, pita bread rounds, or even phyllo dough, but keep in mind the texture and crispiness might differ. Wonton wrappers are ideal for that perfect crunch and shape.

Can I prepare these taco cups in advance for a party?

Definitely! You can assemble them a few hours before baking and keep them refrigerated until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re cold from the fridge.

How spicy is this Easy Taco Cups Recipe?

The spice level is mild and customizable. If you like things hotter, you can add cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture. For milder tastes, simply reduce the chili powder.

Final Thoughts

When you want a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make but full of bold flavors and fun textures, this Easy Taco Cups Recipe is your new go-to. Whether serving family dinners, hosting friends, or looking for a great snack, these taco cups come together quickly and disappear fast. Grab a muffin tin, get cooking, and watch these little flavor bombs impress every time!

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Easy Taco Cups Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need