Ingredients:
• 1 lb ground beef (lean preferred for a less greasy finish)
• 1 (1-oz) package of premium taco seasoning
• 1 (10-oz) can of diced tomatoes and green chiles (do not drain)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (aged cheddar adds a richer flavor)
• 1 (8-oz) bottle of high-quality Ranch dressing
• 5 packs of 15-count frozen phyllo tart shells
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350ºF to prepare for baking.
2. Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat for a cleaner taste.
3. Add Flavor: Stir in the taco seasoning and undrained diced tomatoes with green chiles. Allow the mixture to cook for 5 more minutes, blending the flavors. Remove from heat.
4. Prepare the Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese and Ranch dressing. Add the seasoned taco meat to this blend, mixing thoroughly.
5. Assemble the Bites: Carefully spoon the prepared taco mixture into the frozen phyllo tart shells. At this stage, you may freeze them if you plan to bake later.
6. Bake to Perfection: Arrange the filled tart shells on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes. If baking from frozen, add an extra 2-3 minutes to ensure they’re thoroughly heated.
Serve warm and enjoy these bite-sized Tex-Mex treats!
