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Taco Ranch Bites

Bold, cheesy, and irresistibly snackable, these Taco Ranch Bites combine seasoned beef, ranch flavor, and melty cheese in crispy little shells. Perfect for parties, game day, or fun weeknight snacking!

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 15 bites 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • For the filling:
  • 1/2 lb ground beef or ground turkey
  • 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 packet ranch seasoning (or to taste)
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
  • Optional: diced jalapeños or green onions
  • For the shells:
  • 1 package mini phyllo shells (15-count, thawed if frozen) OR
  • 1 tube refrigerated crescent roll dough (cut into 2-inch squares and pressed into mini muffin tin cups)
  • Toppings (optional):
  • Extra shredded cheese
  • Chopped cilantro or green onions
  • Sliced olives or jalapeños
  • Sour cream or salsa for dipping

Instructions

  1. Cook the meat: In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease. Stir in taco seasoning and water, then simmer for 2–3 minutes.
  2. Mix the filling: Transfer cooked beef to a bowl. Add cream cheese, sour cream, ranch seasoning, and shredded cheese. Stir until creamy and well combined. Fold in jalapeños or green onions if using.
  3. Fill the shells:
    • If using phyllo shells: Place them on a baking sheet and spoon 1–2 teaspoons of filling into each.
    • If using crescent dough: Press dough into mini muffin tins and fill with 1 tablespoon of the mixture.
  4. Bake:
    • Phyllo shells: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted.
    • Crescent dough: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–18 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  5. Garnish and serve: Top with your favorite extras and serve warm with salsa, sour cream, or ranch for dipping!

Notes

  • Use black beans or lentils for a vegetarian version.
  • To add heat, mix in hot sauce or chipotle powder.
  • Make them creamy with a spoonful of queso or nacho cheese sauce.
  • Use shredded chicken instead of beef for a twist.
  • Gluten-free? Serve filling on sliced cucumber or bell pepper rounds.
  • Soften cream cheese before mixing for best texture.
  • Make ahead and reheat in the oven (not microwave) for best crunch.
  • Author: Selena Trump
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Tex-Mex

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 3 bites
  • Calories: 190
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 380mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: taco ranch bites, finger food, game day snack, cheesy appetizer