Description
Say goodbye to boring appetizers—these Taco Ranch Bites are the first thing to vanish from the snack table! Think crispy golden phyllo shells stuffed with zesty beef, tangy ranch, and melty cheddar. They’re bite-sized, crowd-tested, and dangerously poppable. Perfect for game day, potlucks, or a “just because” treat-yourself snack moment. Aunt Marie would approve—grab your shells and get ready to watch them disappear!
Ingredients
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1 lb lean ground beef (or turkey/chicken)
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1 (1-oz) taco seasoning packet (or homemade)
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1 (10-oz) can diced tomatoes with green chiles (undrained)
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2 cups shredded aged cheddar cheese
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1 (8-oz) bottle premium ranch dressing
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5 packs frozen mini phyllo shells (75 shells total)
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Optional: chopped fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish
Instructions
1️⃣ Prep: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange frozen phyllo shells on a lined baking sheet. No need to thaw!
2️⃣ Cook Beef: Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up until no pink remains. Drain fat.
3️⃣ Spice & Simmer: Stir in taco seasoning + undrained tomatoes. Simmer 5 mins until slightly thickened. Remove from heat.
4️⃣ Cool & Mix: Let beef cool 5-7 mins. Stir in ranch dressing and shredded cheese until creamy.
5️⃣ Fill & Bake: Spoon filling into shells (don’t overfill). Bake 10–12 mins until cheese is bubbly and shells are golden.
6️⃣ Serve: Rest 2–3 mins. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions. Serve warm!
Notes
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Filling too runny? Let cool longer or stir in extra cheese/breadcrumbs.
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Make ahead: Cook filling, chill, then fill shells just before baking.
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Try swaps: ground chicken, spicy ranch, or pepper jack cheese for a kick!
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 12 mins
Nutrition
- Calories: 180 kcal Per 3 Bites
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 9g