Mini Taco Cupcakes (Print version)

Crispy wonton cups filled with taco beef, beans, cheese, and fresh toppings for an easy party bite.

# Ingredients:

For the taco filling

01 - 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
02 - 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
03 - 1/4 cup (60 ml) water
04 - 1/2 cup (130 g) refried beans
05 - 1/3 cup (80 g) salsa, not too watery

For the cups

06 - 24 square wonton wrappers
07 - 1 1/2 cups (170 g) shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
08 - Cooking spray or 1 teaspoon oil for the pan

For topping

09 - 1 cup (35 g) shredded lettuce
10 - 1/2 cup (75 g) diced tomatoes
11 - 1/3 cup (80 g) sour cream
12 - 2 tablespoons sliced jalapenos, optional
13 - 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro, optional

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a standard 12-cup muffin pan with cooking spray or a thin coating of oil.
02 - Cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat for 6-8 minutes, breaking it into small crumbles. Drain off excess fat.
03 - Stir in taco seasoning and water. Cook for 1 minute, then stir in refried beans and salsa until the mixture is thick and evenly combined.
04 - Press one wonton wrapper into each muffin cup. Add about 1 tablespoon beef filling and 1 tablespoon cheese. Add a second wonton wrapper turned slightly, then repeat with more filling and cheese.
05 - Bake for 12-14 minutes, until the wonton edges are golden brown and the cheese is melted. Let rest in the pan for 3 minutes.
06 - Lift the taco cupcakes from the pan. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomato, sour cream, jalapenos, and cilantro. Serve warm.

# Good to know:

01 - Makes 12 taco cupcakes, about 2 per serving.
02 - Use thick salsa so the wonton bottoms stay crisp.
03 - Best served warm within 15 minutes of baking.