Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup sliced black olives
• 1 package wonton wrappers (typically found in the refrigerated section)
• 1/2 cup salsa (optional, for serving)
• Cooking spray (for greasing the muffin tin)

Steps to Make Taco Wonton Cups

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal for crisping up the wonton wrappers.

Step 2: Prepare the Taco Filling

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
3. Add the taco seasoning to the beef, along with a splash of water (as directed on the seasoning packet). Stir well to combine and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the mixture is heated through and well combined.

Step 3: Prepare the Wonton Wrappers

1. Lightly grease a muffin tin with cooking spray. This will prevent the wonton cups from sticking and make it easy to remove them once baked.
2. Take one wonton wrapper and gently press it into each muffin cup, making sure to form a cup shape. You can create two layers by placing a second wonton wrapper on top of the first in a crisscross pattern for extra stability and crunch.

Step 4: Assemble the Wonton Cups

1. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the taco filling into each wonton cup.
2. Top each cup with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese (approximately 1 tablespoon).

Step 5: Bake the Wonton Cups

1. Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the wonton wrappers are golden brown and crispy.
2. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn. Once they’re done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.

Step 6: Add Toppings

1. Once the cups are slightly cooled, fill each one with a spoonful of shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and sliced black olives.
2. Finish with a dollop of sour cream on top. If desired, serve with a side of salsa for dipping.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving, based on 12 servings)

• Calories: 150
• Protein: 7g
• Fat: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 11g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 1g
• Sodium: 400mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. These values are estimates based on a serving size of one wonton cup.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use other meats?
Yes! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even vegetarian options like black beans or lentils. The taco seasoning works well with any protein!

2. Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the taco filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble the cups right before baking for optimal freshness.

3. Can I freeze the wonton cups?
Yes! You can freeze the assembled cups before baking. Just place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, cook them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

4. What can I use instead of wonton wrappers?
You can use egg roll wrappers cut into smaller squares or even phyllo dough for a different texture. Adjust the baking time as necessary to ensure they crisp up properly.

5. Are there vegetarian options for these cups?
Certainly! Substitute the ground beef with a mixture of sautéed vegetables, black beans, or a meat alternative like crumbled tempeh or tofu seasoned with taco spices.

Tips for Making Taco Wonton Cups

1. Crispy Wontons: For extra crunch, bake the wontons for a few minutes before adding the filling to help them crisp up even more.
2. Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overfill the cups, as they may overflow while baking. Keep to about 1 tablespoon of filling.
3. Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to personalize your toppings based on your preferences. Chopped green onions, jalapeños, or guacamole would be fantastic additions.
4. Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh vegetables and high-quality cheese.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftover Taco Wonton Cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Freezing: Unbaked cups can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to ensure they are fully cooked.

Conclusion

Taco Wonton Cups are an exciting and delicious twist on traditional tacos, offering a fun and crispy way to enjoy your favorite flavors. Easy to prepare and full of customizable options, they make a fantastic appetizer, snack, or even a meal. Perfect for any occasion, these delightful cups are sure to impress your family and friends, all while being simple enough for a busy weeknight dinner. So grab your wonton wrappers and get ready to delight in these tasty bites that will have everyone coming back for seconds! Enjoy your culinary adventure!