Description

An appetizer game changer: crispy won ton wrappers filled with seasoned ground beef, refried beans, crushed tortilla chips and a sprinkle of cheddar. These bite-sized taco cups are flavorful, easy to prepare, and just 79 calories per cup (nutritional information covers each cup alone and does not include extra toppings). They travel well and taste great hot, warm, or at room temperature — making them ideal for parties, game day, or potlucks.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 (1.25 oz) packet taco seasoning
• 24 won ton wrappers
• 1 (16 oz) can refried beans (fat-free or your preference)
• 12 tortilla chips
• ¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Your favorite taco toppings: sour cream, diced tomato, diced onion, cilantro, jalapeño, or salsa
• Cooking spray

Instructions

1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb ground beef and brown until fully cooked, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain and discard excess grease.
2. Return the beef to the skillet, stir in 1 packet taco seasoning and ¾ cup water. Simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a standard muffin pan with cooking spray.
4. Place one won ton wrapper into each muffin cup, pressing gently so it forms a little cup.
5. Spoon ½ tablespoon refried beans into each wrapper. Crush a half tortilla chip and press it on top of the beans for crunch.
6. Add 1 tablespoon of the seasoned ground beef on top of the chip, then sprinkle ½ tablespoon of shredded cheddar cheese over the beef.
7. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the won ton wrappers are lightly browned and crisp. If you need to make 24 cups and your pan holds 12, repeat the process with a second pan.
8. Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Top each cup with sour cream, diced tomato, onion, cilantro, or any other favorite taco toppings before serving.
9. Enjoy warm, or serve at room temperature — they’re great both ways.

Notes

Nutritional information cited (79 calories) applies to one finished cup and does not include additional toppings like sour cream or guacamole. If you add higher-calorie toppings, adjust accordingly.

Tips and Variations

• Make them vegetarian: swap the beef for a seasoned mixture of cooked lentils or crumbled plant-based meat and follow the same method.
• Make ahead: assemble the cups in the muffin pan, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add the cheese and bake as directed just before serving.
• Freezing: bake the cups first, cool completely, then freeze on a tray. Transfer to a freezer-safe container and reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
• Extra cheesiness: swap cheddar for a Mexican blend or add a little Monterey Jack for a creamier melt.

Serving Suggestions

Arrange these taco won ton cups on a platter with small bowls of salsa, guacamole, and sour cream nearby. They work well as finger food at parties or as part of a Mexican-themed appetizer spread. Because they hold up well at room temperature, you can set them out for guests without worrying about immediate refrigeration.