Pizza Cups (Mini)
Mini pizza cups featuring savory ground beef, tomato paste, onions, and melted mozzarella, perfect for snack attacks, parties, or quick family dinners with hearty flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown and drain the ground beef.
- Stir in tomato paste, instant minced onion, Italian seasoning, and salt; cook over low heat for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Prepare refrigerated biscuits and press each into a greased muffin tin cup.
- Fill each biscuit with the beef mixture and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake until biscuits are golden and cheese is melted, about 12-15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker option, consider using pre-cooked ground beef or turkey. You can also substitute the ground beef with Italian sausage or a plant-based meat alternative for a different flavor. If you want to add some veggies, diced bell peppers or mushrooms can be mixed into the beef mixture. For a twist, try adding some pepperoni or olives for an extra kick.
Serving Suggestions
These Pizza Cups make a great appetizer or snack for parties and game days. Serve them alongside a fresh garden salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. They also pair beautifully with Cream Cheese And Chipped Beef Dip for an extra flavor combo that your guests will love.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pizza cups on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will help keep the biscuits crispy while melting the cheese back to gooey perfection.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pizza Cups (Mini) contains roughly 212 calories, with 14g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1836mg per serving (80% of the Daily Value).
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 use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or a blend. Just keep in mind that different cheeses will provide varying flavors and melting qualities, so choose one that complements your tastes.
Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture and fill the biscuits ahead of time. Assemble the cups and cover them tightly with plastic wrap, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply remove from the fridge and follow the baking instructions.
What can I serve with Pizza Cups?
Pizza Cups pair well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with a crisp Caesar salad, some seasoned potato wedges, or even a warm marinara sauce for dipping. They make for a fun and versatile meal that can be tailored to suit any occasion.
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).