Taco Cups
Taco cups are savory, handheld bites filled with seasoned ground beef, cheese, and crunchy toppings, perfect for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare cooked hamburger with taco seasoning mix as directed on the package.
- Spray a 12-cup cupcake pan with nonstick cooking spray.
- Line each cup with a crescent roll to cover the bottom.
- Layer meat mixture, taco sauce, shredded Cheddar cheese, and crushed Doritos in each cup.
- Bake at 375°F until crescent rolls are browned and cheese is melted, about 12-15 minutes.
- Let the taco cups set for 3 to 5 minutes after baking.
- Remove from the pan and top with shredded lettuce, sour cream, and diced tomatoes.
- Make ahead and freeze if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vegetarian option, substitute the hamburger with black beans or lentils. You can also use whole wheat crescent rolls for a healthier twist. Feel free to customize the toppings based on your preference; jalapeños or avocado can add an extra kick. To save time, use pre-cooked taco meat or a store-bought taco filling to make this dish even quicker.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these taco cups as a fun appetizer or a main dish alongside a fresh salad or fruit. They pair beautifully with Deb'S Taco Salad for a complete meal. Consider offering a variety of toppings on the side, such as guacamole or salsa, to allow guests to customize their cups.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover taco 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 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but the crust may lose some crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Taco Cups contains roughly 82 calories, with 4g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of calcium (10% 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 make taco cups ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare taco cups in advance. Assemble the cups, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to a day before baking. This makes them a convenient option for parties or meal prep.
What can I use instead of taco seasoning?
If you don't have taco seasoning, you can create a homemade mix using cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Adjust the spices to your taste for a personalized flavor in your taco cups.
Can I freeze taco cups?
Absolutely! Taco cups can be frozen before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble and freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
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).