Taco Ranch Bites Recipe

Introduction

Taco Ranch Bites are a flavorful and easy-to-make appetizer perfect for gatherings or a quick meal. Combining seasoned beef, fresh veggies, and creamy ranch dressing wrapped in warm tortillas, these bites deliver a satisfying crunch and zest in every bite.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 tbsp taco seasoning
• 1 cup (240 ml) ranch dressing
• 1 cup (150 g) diced ripe tomatoes
• 1 cup (100 g) shredded lettuce
• 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese
• 12 small flour tortillas
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Step 2: Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 7-10 minutes.
3. Step 3: Drain excess fat and sprinkle in taco seasoning.
4. Step 4: Stir well and add a splash of water if needed to help the seasoning distribute evenly.
5. Step 5: Lay a small flour tortilla flat on a clean surface.
6. Step 6: Spoon seasoned beef mixture onto the center of the tortilla.
7. Step 7: Drizzle ranch dressing over the beef.
8. Step 8: Layer diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and cheddar cheese on top.
9. Step 9: Fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll tightly from the bottom up to form a bite-sized wrap.
10. Step 10: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
11. Step 11: Place the Taco Ranch Bites seam-side down in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and slightly crispy.
12. Step 12: Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro.

Tips & Variations

• Use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner beef alternative for a lighter version.
• Swap ranch dressing with a chipotle mayo for a smoky twist.
• Add sliced jalapeños or hot sauce if you prefer a spicier bite.
• Serve with guacamole or salsa on the side for extra flavor.

Storage

Store leftover Taco Ranch Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to maintain the crispy exterior or warm them briefly in the microwave. Avoid storing with wet ingredients like lettuce to keep the wrap from getting soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare Taco Ranch Bites ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the bites in advance and keep them refrigerated. For the best texture, cook them just before serving to ensure they stay crispy.

Are there vegetarian options for this recipe?

Absolutely! Replace the ground beef with seasoned cooked beans, lentils, or plant-based crumbles for a delicious vegetarian version.

Taco Ranch Bites Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 82 reviews

• Author: Matteo
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings (2 bites per serving) 1x

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Description

Taco Ranch Bites are a flavorful and easy-to-make appetizer featuring seasoned ground beef, ranch dressing, fresh vegetables, and cheddar cheese wrapped in warm flour tortillas, then lightly pan-fried to a crispy perfection. Perfect for parties, snacks, or quick meals, these bites combine classic taco flavors with the creamy tang of ranch dressing for a delicious treat.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 tbsp taco seasoning
• 1 cup (240 ml) ranch dressing
• 1 cup (150 g) diced ripe tomatoes
• 1 cup (100 g) shredded lettuce
• 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese
• 12 small flour tortillas
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) chopped fresh cilantro

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Instructions

1. Heat the skillet: Place a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for cooking the beef.
2. Cook the ground beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until fully browned, about 7 to 10 minutes, breaking it apart as it cooks.
3. Season the beef: Drain any excess fat from the skillet, then sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked beef. Stir well to combine, adding a splash of water if necessary to spread the seasoning evenly.
4. Prepare the tortillas: Lay one small flour tortilla flat on a clean surface in preparation for assembly.
5. Assemble the bites: Spoon a generous amount of the seasoned beef onto the center of the tortilla. Drizzle ranch dressing over the beef. Next, layer diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and shredded cheddar cheese on top.
6. Roll the tortilla: Fold in the sides of the tortilla and then roll from the bottom up tightly to form a compact bite.
7. Heat a second skillet: Warm a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat for toasting the rolled bites.
8. Cook the bites: Place the rolled Taco Ranch Bites seam-side down onto the heated non-stick skillet. Cook each side for 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown and crispy, flipping carefully to avoid unrolling.
9. Serve: Transfer the cooked bites to a serving platter and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro for added flavor and a fresh finish.

Notes

• You can substitute ground chicken or turkey for a leaner protein option.
• For a spicier kick, add some diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling.
• Use whole wheat or corn tortillas for a healthier twist, keeping in mind the difference in texture.
• If you want to make ahead, assemble the bites and refrigerate them, cooking right before serving to keep them fresh and crispy.
• Ranch dressing can be replaced with sour cream or a spicy chipotle mayo for variety.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Tex-Mex

Keywords: Taco Ranch Bites, taco appetizer, ground beef recipes, easy party snacks, pan-fried tacos, ranch dressing snack, Tex-Mex bites