Ingredients
Meat Mixture
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 oz packet premium taco seasoning
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes and green chiles, undrained
Cheese & Dressing
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (preferably aged)
- 8 oz bottle premium Ranch dressing
Shells
- 5 packs of 15-count frozen phyllo tart shells
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF to ensure it’s ready for baking the ranch bites once assembled.
- Cook Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef thoroughly until no pink remains. Drain off any excess fat to keep the mixture from becoming greasy.
- Add Seasoning: Stir in the taco seasoning packet and then add the undrained can of diced tomatoes with green chiles. Mix well and allow the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes to meld the flavors before removing from heat.
- Prepare Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the shredded aged cheddar cheese with the premium Ranch dressing. Then fold this cheesy Ranch mixture into the cooked taco meat until evenly combined.
- Assemble Tarts: Using a spoon, carefully fill each frozen phyllo tart shell with the beef and cheese mixture. If you’re not baking immediately, you can freeze the assembled tart shells at this stage for future use.
- Bake: Place the filled tart shells on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes. If baking from frozen, extend the time by 2-3 minutes to ensure they warm completely and the cheese mixture is bubbly.
Notes
- You can use lean ground turkey as a substitute for beef for a lighter option.
- Choosing aged cheddar cheese enhances the richness of the flavor.
- Freezing the assembled tart shells makes for a convenient make-ahead appetizer.
- Adjust the heat level by selecting mild or spicy taco seasoning based on your preference.
- Serve these ranch bites warm right out of the oven for the best texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American