Enchilada Cups are a delightful twist on traditional enchiladas, offering all the spicy goodness without the mess. Imagine savory ground beef, gooey cheese, and zesty salsa nestled in a crispy tortilla cup, creating an explosion of flavors with every bite.
These little edible treasures hold a special place in my heart. I remember hosting taco night for friends, and when these Enchilada Cups came out of the oven, they vanished faster than my ability to keep track of who ate the most. Perfect for game nights or casual gatherings, they promise an amazing flavor experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Enchilada Cups are easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion
- The bold flavor profile will excite your taste buds while their visual appeal makes them a hit at parties
- You can easily customize fillings based on your preferences or dietary needs
- Plus, they can be served as appetizers or main dishes, making them incredibly versatile
Ingredients for Enchilada Cups
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option that still packs flavor.
- Tortilla Chips: Choose sturdy tortilla chips to hold the filling without breaking apart.
- Shredded Cheese: A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack creates a rich, melty topping.
- Salsa: Opt for your favorite salsa—mild or hot—to control the heat level.
- Green Onions: Fresh green onions add a nice crunch and vibrant color.
For the Toppings:
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream balances the spice beautifully.
- Fresh Cilantro: Chopped cilantro adds freshness and enhances the overall flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Enchilada Cups
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with foil cupcake liners or lightly grease it with nonstick spray.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, brown one pound of ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat and stir in one cup of salsa. Let it simmer for about five minutes to meld those flavors together.
Step 3: Assemble the Cups
Place tortilla chips inside each muffin cup. Spoon some of the beef mixture into each chip bowl and top generously with shredded cheese.
Step 4: Bake
Transfer your muffin tin to the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
Step 5: Add Fresh Toppings
Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Top each Enchilada Cup with chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer to plates and serve immediately! These cups are best enjoyed warm and fresh out of the oven.
With these simple steps, you’ll create an impressive dish that dazzles guests while allowing you more time to enjoy their company rather than slaving away in the kitchen. Grab your ingredients and get ready for some mouthwatering fun!
You Must Know
- Enchilada Cups are a delightful twist on a classic favorite, perfect for parties or a cozy night in
- With endless customization options, they bring both flavor and fun to your table
- Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these cups will have everyone begging for seconds
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sauté your vegetables first to bring out their flavors, then layer them into your tortilla cups. Bake until crispy while you prepare your enchilada sauce for maximum efficiency and delicious results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap chicken for beef or beans for a vegetarian option. Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick or add black olives and jalapeños for an extra zing!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Enchilada Cups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through, ensuring they stay crispy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh tortillas instead of pre-made cups for better texture and flavor
- Always taste your filling before assembling; adjust seasoning as needed
- Allow the cups to cool slightly before serving; this helps them hold their shape better
Sometimes, I whip up these Enchilada Cups when friends come over, and their faces light up with joy! It’s always nice when someone asks for the recipe—it makes me feel like a culinary rock star!
FAQs:
What are Enchilada Cups?
Enchilada cups are a fun and delicious twist on traditional enchiladas. These bite-sized treats feature a crispy tortilla shell filled with your favorite enchilada ingredients. You can use seasoned meat, beans, cheese, and various toppings to create a flavorful experience. They make an excellent appetizer or party food, appealing to both adults and kids alike. The beauty of enchilada cups lies in their versatility; you can customize them to suit your taste preferences.
How do I make the tortillas for Enchilada Cups?
To make the tortillas for enchilada cups, start by cutting corn or flour tortillas into smaller rounds that fit snugly into a muffin tin. Lightly brush each tortilla with oil and press them into the tin, shaping them into cups. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. This step is crucial as it creates the perfect vessel for your enchilada filling while adding a delightful crunch.
Can I prepare Enchilada Cups ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare enchilada cups ahead of time! You can assemble the cups and fill them with your desired ingredients, then cover them tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you bake them straight from the fridge. This makes them perfect for meal prep or entertaining guests without last-minute stress.
What toppings pair well with Enchilada Cups?
Toppings play an essential role in enhancing the flavor of enchilada cups. Consider fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, sliced avocados, or jalapeños for added spice. Sour cream or guacamole also provide rich creaminess that complements the flavors perfectly. For those who prefer a kick, drizzling hot sauce or salsa over the top can elevate your dish even further.
Conclusion for Enchilada Cups:
Enchilada cups offer a delightful combination of taste and convenience, making them an ideal choice for any gathering or family meal. By using simple ingredients and customizable fillings, you can cater to various preferences while keeping preparation easy. Whether as appetizers or main dishes, these bite-sized treats will surely impress everyone at your table. Enjoy exploring different variations and toppings to make these enchilada cups your own!
Enchilada Cups
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Enchilada Cups are a delicious and playful twist on traditional enchiladas, perfect for any gathering. These bite-sized treats feature crispy tortilla shells filled with savory ground beef, melted cheese, and zesty salsa, topped with fresh green onions and creamy sour cream. Quick to prepare and fully customizable, they are guaranteed to be a hit at your next party or family dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup salsa
- 2 cups sturdy tortilla chips
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 2 green onions (chopped)
- ½ cup sour cream (for topping)
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with foil cupcake liners or lightly grease it.
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat and stir in salsa; let simmer for 5 minutes.
- Place tortilla chips into each muffin cup. Fill each chip bowl with the beef mixture and top generously with shredded cheeses.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven, cool slightly, then top with chopped green onions, cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 Enchilada Cups
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
