Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 2 tbsp taco seasoning
- 1 tbsp ranch seasoning (or ranch dressing mix)
- 1/4 cup water
- 24 mini tortilla scoop chips (like Tostitos Scoops)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 1 small tomato, diced
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
Optional Toppings
- Sour cream
- Guacamole
- Salsa
Instructions
- Brown the beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat to ensure the bites are not greasy.
- Season the beef: Add the taco seasoning, ranch seasoning, and water to the skillet. Stir well and let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture thickens and flavors meld together.
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking tray by laying out the mini tortilla scoop chips evenly.
- Assemble the bites: Spoon the seasoned beef mixture into each tortilla scoop. Add diced tomato on top, then sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Bake: Place the tray in the oven and bake for 5 to 7 minutes until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly and golden.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the bites from the oven, sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro, and serve warm. Add optional toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or salsa as desired for extra flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Use gluten-free tortilla scoops to make this recipe gluten-free.
- For added spice, include a dash of hot sauce or jalapeño slices.
- Prepare the beef mixture in advance and assemble just before baking for convenience.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
