Description
Taco Ranch Bites are a flavorful and cheesy appetizer combining seasoned taco-spiced ground beef with a zesty ranch twist, all nestled in crunchy mini tortilla scoop chips. Baked until bubbly and topped with fresh tomatoes and cilantro, these bites make a perfect snack for game days, parties, or casual gatherings, guaranteed to disappear quickly.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tbsp taco seasoning
- 1 tbsp ranch seasoning or ranch dressing mix
- 1/4 cup water
- 24 mini tortilla scoop chips (e.g., 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
- Cook the Beef: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Brown it thoroughly until fully cooked and no longer pink, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat from the skillet to avoid greasiness.
- Season: Stir in the taco seasoning, ranch seasoning, and water into the cooked beef. Mix well to evenly coat the meat and allow the mixture to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly and absorbs the flavors.
- Assemble the Bites: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the mini tortilla scoop chips evenly spaced on a baking tray. Spoon a generous amount of the seasoned beef mixture into each chip, then top each with diced tomato and a sprinkle of shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese.
- Bake: Place the baking tray into the preheated oven and bake for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly, signaling that the bites are hot and ready.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the tray from the oven, sprinkle the taco ranch bites with fresh chopped cilantro for a burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately with optional sides of sour cream, guacamole, and salsa for dipping, and enjoy warm.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture.
- Use gluten-free tortilla chips to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Prepare the beef mixture ahead of time to save time before parties or game days.
- Leftover taco beef can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated before assembling the bites.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
