Wonton Taco Cups

Introduction

The first time I made Wonton Taco Cups for my family, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I had heard great things about this fun twist on traditional tacos, but I worried whether my kids would enjoy the wonton wrappers as much as they loved classic taco shells. To my delight, they were an instant hit! The combination of the crunchy, golden cups filled with savory meat and melty cheese was simply irresistible. We devoured them in no time, and the vibrant toppings added a festive flair that made our taco night feel like a special occasion. Since then, these delightful cups have become a staple for game days, family gatherings, and celebrations. They’re easy to make, customizable, and always leave everyone wanting more!

Ingredients

• 1 pound extra-lean ground beef (or ground chicken)
• 2 tablespoons avocado oil (or olive oil)
• 1 envelope taco seasoning (about 2 tablespoons)
• 1 (10-ounce) can ROTEL diced tomatoes & green chilies, well drained
• Cooking spray (such as PAM® Spray Pump Avocado Oil)
• 36 wonton wrappers
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (regular or reduced fat)
• 1 cup fresh tomatoes (Roma or grape), diced
• 1 cup sour cream (regular or reduced fat)
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• 18 medium-sized black olives
• Optional: Lime wedges for garnish

Instructions

Preheat Oven
Adjust the oven rack to the middle position and preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

Cook the Ground Beef
In a cast-iron pan over medium heat, add avocado oil and ground beef. Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the meat and cook, breaking it up as it browns. Once fully cooked, remove from heat and add the drained ROTEL tomatoes. Mix until well combined.

Prepare the Wonton Cups
Spray two muffin pans with cooking spray. Place a wonton wrapper in 18 wells of the pans. Add a tablespoon of the meat mixture into each wonton wrapper, then top with about two teaspoons of cheese. Place a second wonton wrapper over each taco cup, offsetting it slightly from the bottom layer. Repeat the layering of meat and cheese on top of the second wrapper.

Bake the Taco Cups
Bake for approximately 8 minutes, keeping a close eye on them. The wonton wrappers should be golden brown, and the cheese should be fully melted.

Garnish and Serve
Remove the taco cups from the muffin pans. Garnish each cup with diced tomatoes, a dollop of sour cream, sliced green onions, and a black olive. Serve with lime wedges if desired.

Enjoy these crunchy, flavorful Wonton Taco Cups immediately!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 18 cups
• Calories per serving: Approximately 150 calories
• Total Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 350mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 12g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 8g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Total Time: 28 minutes

How to Serve

• Place Wonton Taco Cups on a large serving platter for easy access.
• Garnish with additional toppings like jalapeños or avocado for extra flavor.
• Serve alongside a fresh salad or guacamole for a complete meal.
• Provide extra lime wedges for guests to squeeze over their cups.
• Consider serving with a side of tortilla chips and salsa for additional crunch.

Additional Tips

1. Make It Ahead: You can prepare the meat mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake the taco cups just before serving.
2. Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to add more spices or hot sauce to the meat mixture for a spicier flavor.
3. Use Alternative Proteins: Ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives work well if you’re looking for a lighter option.
4. Wonton Wrappers: If you can’t find wonton wrappers, you can use egg roll wrappers, cutting them into quarters to fit the muffin pan.
5. Avoid Soggy Cups: Ensure the diced tomatoes are well-drained to prevent sogginess in the cups.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the meat with a mixture of black beans, corn, and diced bell peppers, seasoned with taco seasoning.
• Cheesy Taco Cups: Add more cheese between layers or use a variety of cheeses like pepper jack or queso fresco for a different flavor.
• Southwestern Style: Incorporate corn, black beans, and diced bell peppers into the meat mixture for a southwestern twist.
• Sweet and Spicy: Add some diced jalapeños or a bit of pineapple to the meat mixture for a sweet and spicy kick.
• Breakfast Taco Cups: Use scrambled eggs and sausage or bacon with cheese for a breakfast version of these taco cups.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a refreshing margarita or mocktail for a festive touch.
• Serve alongside a vibrant corn salad or a simple green salad to balance the meal.
• Offer a variety of salsas, from mild to hot, to cater to all taste preferences.
• Consider adding a dessert option, like churros or tres leches cake, for a complete Mexican-themed meal.
• Use themed plates or decorations for game days or parties to enhance the festive atmosphere.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Leftover Wonton Taco Cups can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked taco cups. Assemble them in the muffin pan, cover with plastic wrap, and freeze. Bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken instead of ground beef?
   Yes! Shredded rotisserie chicken works great for this recipe.
2. How do I keep the wonton wrappers from burning?
   Keep an eye on them while baking and remove them from the oven as soon as they turn golden brown.
3. Can I use homemade taco seasoning?
   Absolutely! Homemade seasoning can add a unique flavor to your taco cups.
4. What can I substitute for sour cream?
   Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative can be used as a substitute for sour cream.
5. How do I make these cups gluten-free?
   Use gluten-free wonton wrappers or look for alternative taco cups made from corn.
6. Can I bake these in an air fryer?
   Yes, you can air fry the wonton taco cups at 350°F for about 5-6 minutes.
7. What toppings can I use?
   You can top them with avocado, salsa, jalapeños, or any toppings you prefer!
8. How long do they take to reheat?
   Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
9. Are these cups suitable for kids?
   Yes! They’re a fun and easy finger food that kids usually love.
10. Can I make them without meat?
    Yes! Use a combination of beans, vegetables, and cheese for a delicious vegetarian option.

Conclusion

Wonton Taco Cups are a deliciously fun way to enjoy the flavors of tacos in a unique and festive format. They’re perfect for any gathering, from casual game nights to festive celebrations. The crunchy wonton wrappers paired with savory fillings and colorful toppings make for an irresistible appetizer or main dish. Easy to prepare and customizable, these taco cups are sure to impress your guests and become a favorite in your home. Give them a try at your next get-together, and watch as they disappear from the platter in no time!

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