Description
Taco Cupcakes are a fun and flavorful twist on classic tacos, combining savory seasoned ground beef, creamy melted cheddar cheese, and moist cornbread baked in a muffin tin. These bite-sized delights are topped with fresh tomatoes, green onions, cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream and optional guacamole, making them perfect for parties or family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef, cooked and seasoned with taco seasoning
- Cornbread mix, prepared according to package instructions for cupcakes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Toppings and Garnishes
- Sour cream, for topping
- 1 large tomato, diced
- Chopped green onions, for garnish
- Chopped cilantro, for garnish
- Guacamole (optional), for topping
Instructions
- Prepare the Cornbread: Follow the instructions on the cornbread mix package carefully, but instead of pouring the batter into a regular baking pan, pour it into a muffin tin to create cupcake-sized portions. Bake the cornbread cupcakes until they are firm but not fully cooked, which will allow for additional baking later.
- Scoop Out Centers: When the cornbread cupcakes are nearly done baking, carefully remove them from the oven. Use a spoon to hollow out the center of each cupcake, creating space for the savory beef filling.
- Add the Beef: Fill each hollowed-out cornbread cupcake with the cooked and seasoned ground beef, ensuring each is generously stuffed.
- Top with Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef-filled cupcakes. Return the muffin tin to the oven and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Once the taco cupcakes are out of the oven, top each one with a spoonful of sour cream, diced tomatoes, chopped green onions, and cilantro. Optionally, add a dollop of guacamole for extra flavor and creaminess. Serve warm.
Notes
- For best results, ensure the cornbread cupcakes are firm but not fully baked before adding the filling to avoid dryness.
- You can customize toppings according to your preference, such as adding jalapeños or olives.
- These taco cupcakes are perfect for parties and can be made ahead and reheated.
- For a spicier kick, add extra taco seasoning or hot sauce to the beef mixture.
- Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content.
