Popover Tacos

Prep: 15 min Cook: 25 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: Mexican

Popover Tacos combine crispy, cheesy taco fillings with a light, airy batter that puffs up like a popover. Rich in flavors from seasoned beef, melty Monterey Jack, and green chilies, this dish offers a fun twist on traditional tacos, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb. ground beef
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 1 envelope taco seasoning mix
  • 15 oz. can tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 16 oz. can refried beans
  • 4 oz. can chopped green chilies
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1 tablespoon oil
  • 1 cup sifted flour

Instructions

  1. Brown ground beef with chopped onion in a skillet, stirring until the ground beef is crumbly; drain excess fat.
  2. Stir in taco seasoning mix, tomato sauce, and water; mix well.
  3. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring frequently.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and sifted flour to make the batter.
  5. Pour the batter into greased muffin tins or ramekins.
  6. Add the cooked beef mixture and refried beans on top or inside the batter as desired.
  7. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until puffed and golden.

Tips & Substitutions

For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. You can also use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. If you prefer a spicier kick, add some diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture. Make sure to grease your muffin tins well to prevent sticking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these popover tacos with a side of fresh salsa and guacamole for a complete meal. They pair beautifully with Easy Taco Pie or can be enjoyed alongside a crisp salad for a lighter option. Garnish with sour cream and chopped cilantro for added flavor.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave them, but they may lose some of their puffiness.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Popover Tacos contains roughly 1068 calories, with 20g protein, 161g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (41% of the Daily Value), protein (40% of the Daily Value), and calcium (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1112mg per serving (48% of the Daily Value).

1068 kcal 53% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 19.9g 40% DV
Total Fat 40.3g 52% DV
Carbs 160.5g 58% DV
Fiber 6.9g 25% DV
Sugar 15.3g 31% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1112.4mg 48% DV
Potassium 1338.3mg 28% DV
Cholesterol 278.5mg 93% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 150.1mcg 17% DV
Vitamin C 16mg 18% DV
Vitamin D 0.4mcg 2% DV
Calcium 420.5mg 32% DV
Iron 7.4mg 41% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture and batter ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator for up to a day. When ready to serve, assemble and bake as directed. This is a great way to save time on busy nights.

What can I substitute for the refried beans?

If you don't have refried beans, you can use black beans or pinto beans. Simply mash them lightly before adding to the mixture. This will maintain the creamy texture and add a different flavor profile.

How do I know when the popovers are done?

The popovers are done when they are puffed up and golden brown on top. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to avoid over-browning.

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).

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