Cheesy Chili Cups
Cheesy chili cups are crispy won ton shells filled with a flavorful cheese mixture, topped with olives — perfect for parties, snacks, or appetizer platters. Light and tasty.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spray 2 sets of miniature muffin tins with nonstick cooking spray.
- Use a 3-inch cookie cutter to cut won ton skins into circles.
- Place one circle in each muffin cup, molding it to the cup, and spray lightly with additional nonstick cooking spray.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 7 to 8 minutes or until golden.
- Remove from tins and place on cookie sheets.
- In a medium bowl, combine shredded Cheddar cheese, chopped green chilies, chopped chives or green onion tops, and ground cumin.
- Mix well to combine.
- Fill each won ton cup with 2 teaspoons of cheese filling.
- Top each with two olive slices.
- Bake in the preheated 350°F oven for 10 minutes or until bubbly.
- Serve warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier option, consider using whole wheat won ton wrappers or adding more vegetables like bell peppers or corn to the cheese filling. If you can't find low-fat cheeses, regular cheese can be used but will alter the calorie count. Fresh herbs can also enhance the flavor; try adding fresh cilantro instead of chives.
Serving Suggestions
These Cheesy Chili Cups make a fantastic appetizer or party snack. Serve them with a side of salsa or guacamole for dipping, or pair them with a fresh salad, like Easy Holiday Cherry Salad, for a light meal. They are also great for game day gatherings or as a fun finger food for kids.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Cheesy Chili Cups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes or until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Chili Cups contains roughly 330 calories, with 16g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), calcium (62% of the Daily Value), and protein (32% of the Daily Value). At about 330 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these Cheesy Chili Cups ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the won ton cups and the cheese filling in advance. Assemble them and store them separately in the refrigerator. Bake them just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Can I freeze the Cheesy Chili Cups?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled cups before baking. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to an airtight container. Bake from frozen for an additional 5-10 minutes, adjusting the time based on your oven.
What can I substitute for the low-fat Ricotta cheese?
If you don't have low-fat Ricotta, you can use cottage cheese blended until smooth or Greek yogurt for a creamy texture. Both alternatives will add a slightly different flavor but will work well in this recipe.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).