Introduction

Taco Ranch Bites are a flavorful and easy-to-make appetizer perfect for parties or game day. Combining savory ground beef, spicy taco seasoning, and creamy ranch dressing in crispy phyllo shells creates a bite-sized treat everyone will love.

The image shows a close-up of several mini taco cups arranged tightly on a white plate with a slightly raised edge, all set on a white marbled texture. Each cup has a crispy, golden-yellow shell with wavy edges forming the first layer. Inside, there is a second layer of cooked ground beef mixed with small pieces of red tomato. The third layer of melted cheddar cheese covers the beef, giving a glossy orange and yellow shine. Small green cilantro leaves are sprinkled on top as the final layer, adding a fresh pop of color. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the frozen phyllo tart shells according to package instructions until crisp. Set aside to cool.
Step 2: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and crumbly. Drain excess fat.
Step 3: Stir in the taco seasoning and undrained diced tomatoes with green chiles. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until well combined and heated through.
Step 4: Remove the skillet from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
Step 5: Spoon about one tablespoon of the beef mixture into each phyllo tart shell.
Step 6: Top each tart bite with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 7: Drizzle ranch dressing over each bite just before serving, or serve the dressing on the side for dipping.

Tips & Variations

For extra heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.
You can substitute ground turkey for a lighter option.
Try using pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a spicy twist.
Prepare the beef filling ahead of time and assemble the bites just before serving to keep the shells crisp.

Storage

Store any leftover beef mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Do not assemble the tart shells in advance to avoid sogginess. Reheat the beef mixture on the stove or in the microwave before serving. Assemble fresh bites each time for best texture.

How to Serve

The image shows several small tart cups arranged closely together on a white plate sitting on a white marbled surface. Each tart cup has a golden, crisp shell with ruffled edges. Inside, there is a layer of cooked ground meat mixed with small pieces of diced red tomatoes, topped with melted cheddar cheese that has a rich orange color and a smooth, shiny texture. Fresh green cilantro leaves are sprinkled on top of the cheese, adding a pop of color. The overall look is warm and inviting, with the melted cheese gently wrapping the filling. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular tart shells instead of phyllo shells?

Yes, regular tart shells can be used if preferred, but they may be heavier and less crisp than phyllo shells.

Can I make these bites vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with seasoned cooked lentils or a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian-friendly version.

Taco Ranch Bites Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 131 reviews

These Taco Ranch Bites are a flavorful, bite-sized appetizer perfect for parties or casual gatherings. Made with seasoned ground beef, diced tomatoes and green chiles, melted cheddar cheese, and creamy ranch dressing, all nestled inside crispy phyllo tart shells. They combine savory, spicy, and tangy flavors in one irresistible snack.

Author: Zane
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 75 pieces (assuming all shells are filled – 5 packages x 15 shells each) 1x
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Mexican-American

Ingredients

Scale

Meat Mixture

1 pound lean ground beef
1 package (1 oz) taco seasoning
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes and green chiles, undrained

Cheese and Dressing

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 bottle (8 oz) ranch dressing

Shells

5 packages (15 count each) frozen phyllo tart shells

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare Shells: Preheat your oven according to the phyllo tart shells package instructions (usually around 350°F). Arrange the frozen phyllo tart shells on a baking sheet for baking.
Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add Seasoning and Tomatoes: Stir in the taco seasoning and the undrained can of diced tomatoes and green chiles. Simmer the mixture for a few minutes until heated through and well combined.
Assemble Bites: Spoon the seasoned beef mixture into each phyllo tart shell. Top each with shredded cheddar cheese.
Bake the Bites: Place the baking sheet with filled tart shells into the preheated oven. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 10-12 minutes.
Add Ranch Dressing: Remove from the oven and drizzle ranch dressing over each taco bite or serve on the side for dipping.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm as a party appetizer or snack.

Notes

Ensure the phyllo tart shells are fully thawed or follow package directions for best crispiness.
For added freshness, garnish with chopped cilantro or sliced green onions.
You can substitute ranch dressing with a spicy ranch for a little extra kick.
These bites can be prepared ahead and baked just before serving.
Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content.

Keywords: Taco bites, Appetizer, Party food, Phyllo tart shells, Ground beef, Taco seasoning