Crunchy Nacho Cups are a fun and tasty way to enjoy nachos! Imagine crispy tortilla cups filled with your favorite toppings like cheese, salsa, and beans. Yum!
These little cups are perfect for parties or just a cozy night in. I love to make a big batch and watch my family fight over the last one. Who doesn’t love a good snack? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tortillas: Small flour or corn tortillas work best for shaping the cups. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try whole wheat or even chickpea tortillas for a gluten-free version.
Ground Beef: I love using ground beef for its flavor, but ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes for a leaner dish. For a vegetarian twist, use black beans or lentils instead.
Taco Seasoning: A packet of taco seasoning is super convenient, but you can easily make your own mix using cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and paprika. Adjust the spices to your taste!
Cheese: Shredded cheddar gives a great taste and melty texture. For something a bit different, try pepper jack for a kick, or even vegan cheese for a dairy-free option!
How Do I Ensure My Tortilla Cups Are Crispy?
Getting that perfect crunch from your tortilla cups is all about the baking process. Start by pressing the tortilla wedges firmly into the muffin tin, so they hold their shape. Don’t skip the oil; it helps them crisp up nicely.
- Preheat your oven well, this ensures even cooking.
- Brush or spray the tortillas lightly with oil for a golden finish.
- Bake until bubbly and crispy, but keep an eye on them so they don’t burn! They should be golden brown when done.
Enjoy these tips and get ready for some fun and crunchy nacho cups!
Crunchy Nacho Cups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tortilla Cups:
- 12 small flour or corn tortillas (6-inch)
- Cooking spray or oil for brushing
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade taco seasoning)
- 1/2 cup water
For Topping:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend cheese)
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper or jalapeño (optional, for heat)
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
- Sour cream, guacamole or salsa for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook. You’ll spend a little time assembling the tortilla cups and cooking the filling, making it a quick and fun meal option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is super important as it ensures that the tortilla cups cook evenly and get nice and crispy!
2. Prepare the Muffin Tin:
Lightly grease a muffin tin using cooking spray or a brush of oil. This will help the tortilla cups release easily after baking.
3. Cut the Tortillas:
Using a sharp knife, cut each tortilla into quarters. You should end up with 48 quarters, which will form the cups.
4. Shape the Cups:
Take 4 tortilla wedges and press them into each muffin cup, layering and overlapping slightly to create a cup shape.
5. Oil the Tortilla Cups:
Lightly brush or spray the tortilla cups with oil. This is key for getting that golden, crispy texture when baking!
6. Bake the Tortilla Cups:
Bake the tortilla cups in the oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are crispy and golden brown. Once they are ready, remove them from the oven and set them aside.
7. Cook the Ground Beef:
While the cups are baking, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook until it’s nicely browned. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks.
8. Season the Beef:
Once browned, drain any excess grease. Add the taco seasoning and water (following packet instructions or your homemade recipe). Let this simmer until the mixture thickens and is packed with flavor.
9. Fill the Cups:
Now, take the seasoned beef and spoon about 1-2 tablespoons into each crispy tortilla cup. It’s time to pile on the deliciousness!
10. Add Cheese:
Sprinkle shredded cheese over the beef in each cup. This will melt beautifully in the oven!
11. Melt the Cheese:
Put the muffin tin back into the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. Yum!
12. Add Toppings:
Remove from the oven and top each nacho cup with diced tomatoes, red onion, chopped peppers, and fresh cilantro to add a burst of flavor and color.
13. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these crunchy nacho cups immediately with sour cream, guacamole, or salsa on the side for dipping. Enjoy your delicious creation!
These crunchy, cheesy mini nacho cups are perfect for any gathering or just a fun snack at home. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Corn Tortillas Instead of Flour?
Absolutely! Corn tortillas work great for nacho cups and will give a different flavor that’s super tasty. Just be sure to press them well into the muffin tin for the best shape!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the ground beef with black beans, lentils, or a plant-based meat alternative. You can also add more vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store the filled nacho cups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness.
Can I Prepare the Cups Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the tortilla cups and even cook the beef mixture a few hours in advance. Just assemble and bake them shortly before serving for the best texture!
