Description
Taco Ranch Bites are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer featuring seasoned ground beef, ranch flavors, and melted cheese served in crispy tortilla scoop chips. Topped with fresh tomatoes and cilantro, these bites are perfect for parties or snack time, served alongside sour cream, guacamole, and salsa.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tbsp taco seasoning
- 1 tbsp ranch seasoning (or ranch dressing mix)
- 1/4 cup water
- 24 mini tortilla scoop chips (e.g. Tostitos Scoops)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 1 small tomato, diced
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
- Sour cream (for serving)
- Guacamole (for serving)
- Salsa (for serving)
Instructions
- Cook the Beef: Heat a skillet over medium heat and brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain off any excess fat to keep the bites from being greasy.
- Season: Add the taco seasoning, ranch seasoning, and water to the skillet. Stir well to coat all the beef evenly, then let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.
- Assemble the Bites: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the mini tortilla scoop chips on a baking tray. Spoon a generous amount of the seasoned beef into each scoop chip, then top with diced tomato and shredded cheese.
- Bake: Place the tray in the oven and bake for 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese has melted completely and is bubbly, signaling the bites are ready.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the bites from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro for an herby freshness. Serve warm with sides of sour cream, guacamole, and salsa for dipping and added flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner meat option.
- Adjust the taco and ranch seasoning amounts to taste or use homemade blends for a personalized flavor.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute the beef with cooked lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative.
- Serve immediately after baking for the best texture and taste.
