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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- Heat the skillet: Place a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for cooking the beef.
- 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.
- 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.
- Prepare the tortillas: Lay one small flour tortilla flat on a clean surface in preparation for assembly.
- 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.
- Roll the tortilla: Fold in the sides of the tortilla and then roll from the bottom up tightly to form a compact bite.
- Heat a second skillet: Warm a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat for toasting the rolled bites.
- 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.
- 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
