Savory, cheesy, and perfectly portioned — all the bold flavors of tacos baked into fun, handheld cups
Taco Cupcakes are one of those recipes that instantly become a hit with both kids and adults. They’re easy to make, customizable, and perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, game days, or meal prep. Think seasoned taco beef, melty cheese, and crisp shells baked together into individual portions that are impossible to resist.
🕒 Servings & Timing
Yield: 12 taco cupcakes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 18–22 minutes
Total Time: ~35 minutes
🛒 Ingredients
For the Taco Filling
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- ½ cup water
For the Cupcakes
- 12 wonton wrappers (or small flour tortillas cut into rounds)
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar or Mexican-blend cheese
- ½ cup salsa (optional but recommended)
Optional Toppings (After Baking)
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Diced tomatoes
- Shredded lettuce
- Sliced jalapeños
- Chopped green onions
- Fresh cilantro
🧁 How to Make Taco Cupcakes
1. Cook the Taco Filling
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Drain excess grease if needed.
Stir in taco seasoning and water.
Simmer for 5 minutes until thick and well combined. Remove from heat.
2. Prepare the Muffin Pan
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a 12-cup muffin tin.
Press one wonton wrapper into each muffin cup, gently shaping it to form a cup.
3. Assemble the Taco Cupcakes
Layer each cup as follows:
- 1 tablespoon taco meat
- 1 tablespoon shredded cheese
- Optional spoonful of salsa
Add a second wonton wrapper on top and repeat the layers:
- Taco meat
- Cheese
Finish with a small sprinkle of cheese on top.
4. Bake
Bake uncovered for 18–22 minutes, or until:
- Wonton wrappers are golden and crisp
- Cheese is melted and bubbly
Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before removing from the pan.
5. Serve
Top with your favorite taco toppings and serve warm.
🌮 Ingredient Variations & Substitutions
- Protein: Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles
- Low-Carb: Skip wontons and use cheese shells instead
- Extra Flavor: Add black beans or corn to the beef
- Spicy: Mix diced green chilies or chipotle sauce into the filling
- Cheese: Pepper jack adds a great kick
💡 Tips for Best Results
- Press wonton wrappers gently to avoid tearing
- Don’t overfill — smaller layers bake more evenly
- Let rest briefly after baking so cups hold their shape
- Use nonstick spray generously for easy removal
🧊 Storage & Meal Prep
- Refrigerator: Store up to 3 days in an airtight container
- Reheat: Oven or air fryer for best crispness
- Freezer: Freeze unbaked or baked (without toppings) for up to 2 months
🌟 Serving Ideas
- Taco night appetizer
- Lunchbox-friendly meal
- Party finger food
- Game-day snack platter
📝 Conclusion
These Taco Cupcakes deliver everything you love about tacos — bold seasoning, gooey cheese, and satisfying crunch — in a fun, portion-controlled format. Easy, versatile, and endlessly customizable, they’re guaranteed to disappear fast once they hit the table.
