Tired of the same old tacos? Say hello to Taco Cupcakes—the bite-sized, buildable dinner your kids will actually ask to help make.
These savory mini meals are layered in a muffin tin using soft tortillas, seasoned ground turkey or beans, and melty cheese. Top them off with your favorite taco fixings for a playful twist on Taco Tuesday—or any night of the week!
Why Kids Love Taco Cupcakes
Handheld & mess-free: Just the right size for little hands (and grown-up snacking).
Totally customizable: Let each family member make their own combo.
Fun to assemble: Layer, sprinkle, top—like crafting, but edible!
Taco Cupcakes
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Servings12 Taco Cupcakes
Prep Time10 min
Cook Time10-12 mins
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef or turkey (or black beans for a veggie version)
1 packet taco seasoning
1/2 cup water
1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
4 large soft tortillas
Non-stick cooking spray
Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, avocado, olives, tomatoes, green onion
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F. Spray a muffin tin with non-stick spray.
Step 2: Cut tortillas into 3-inch rounds (you’ll need about 24 rounds total). Stack 2 rounds in each muffin cup to form a little taco shell.
Step 3: Brown ground meat in a skillet. Drain any fat, then stir in taco seasoning and water. Let simmer until thickened, about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Spoon meat mixture into tortilla cups. Top with cheese.
Step 5: Bake for 10–12 minutes or until tortillas are lightly crisp and cheese is melted.
Step 6: Let cool slightly, then pop out and top with your favorites!
Recipe Notes
Bonus Fun
Let kids "decorate" their cupcake tacos with:
Sour cream squiggles
Guacamole dollops
Tomato confetti
Olive eyes (yes, make them into silly taco faces!)
Parent Tip:
These also make a great after-school snack or lunchbox surprise. You can freeze extras and reheat them in the oven or air fryer!
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