Enchilada Cups are the perfect mix of fun and flavor. Think of your favorite classic enchiladas, but mini-sized and made with crispy flour tortillas. These delightful cups are perfect for casual gatherings, family dinners, or even game nights! They bring comfort to the table with a hearty filling and lots of cheesy goodness.
Introduction
If you’re looking for a dish that is both easy to make and packed with flavor, then these Enchilada Cups are just the ticket! Perfect for families, parties, or a cozy dinner night, this recipe combines everything you love about traditional enchiladas in a fun, bite-sized format. What’s better? They’re customizable, so everyone can add their favorite toppings!
A Bit About the Recipe
Enchilada Cups are created by taking small tortillas and shaping them into cups. Each cup is filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, beans, and cheese, then baked until perfectly crisp. They are not only delicious but are sure to impress your guests with their vibrant presentation. It’s an exciting way to enjoy a classic dish!
Ingredients for Enchilada Cups Recipe – Easy, Flavorful, and Fun to Make
- 10 small flour tortillas: Form the base for your enchilada cups.
- 1 pound ground beef (80-85% lean): Provides a hearty, savory filling.
- 10 ounces red enchilada sauce: Adds rich flavor to the meat.
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning: Boosts the flavor with a spicy kick.
- 14 ounces canned black beans (rinsed and drained): A nutritious and tasty addition.
- ½ cup canned whole kernel corn: Adds a hint of sweetness.
- ¼ cup chopped pickled jalapeños: For a zesty, spicy touch.
- 1 ½ cups shredded Mexican blend cheese: Melts beautifully on top.
Optional toppings:
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 chopped green onion
- ¼ cup chopped tomato
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 small avocado (cubed)
How to Make Enchilada Cups Recipe – Easy, Flavorful, and Fun to Make – Step by Step
Step 1: Prepare the Tortilla Cups
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray a muffin tin with cooking spray. Insert a tortilla into each muffin tin cavity to form a cup shape. Place a small foil ball in each to help the tortillas maintain their shape while baking. Bake for 15 minutes or until crispy. Remove from the oven, discard the foil balls, and set the pan aside.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef Filling
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes, until it’s browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the red enchilada sauce and taco seasoning, combining well to coat the beef with the sauce.
Step 3: Add the Additional Ingredients
Add the black beans, corn, and chopped pickled jalapeños to the beef mixture. Stir everything together until fully combined and heated through.
Step 4: Assemble the Enchilada Cups
Spoon the beef mixture into the baked tortilla cups until almost full. Top each cup with shredded Mexican blend cheese.
Step 5: Bake the Enchilada Cups
Place the filled cups back in the oven and bake for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted. Remove from the oven and add your optional toppings: cilantro, green onion, chopped tomato, sour cream, and avocado.
Helpful Tips for Enchilada Cups Recipe – Easy, Flavorful, and Fun to Make
- Make sure to coat the muffin tin well with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Feel free to use ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative.
- Customize with your favorite veggies or beans for a personal touch!
Serving Suggestions for Enchilada Cups Recipe – Easy, Flavorful, and Fun to Make
Pair these Enchilada Cups with a refreshing side salad, some homemade guacamole, or even a chilled beverage like margaritas for a fiesta feel!
Storage and Leftovers for Enchilada Cups Recipe – Easy, Flavorful, and Fun to Make
Leftover enchilada cups can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the oven until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Enchilada Cups Recipe – Easy, Flavorful, and Fun to Make
- Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas for a gluten-free option. - Can I freeze the enchilada cups?
Absolutely! Assemble them without baking, freeze, and bake them straight from the freezer when you are ready to enjoy. - What can I substitute for ground beef?
You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute for a healthier or vegetarian version.
Conclusion
These Enchilada Cups are an exciting twist on a classic recipe, making them a hit for any occasion. Easy to make and packed with flavor, they invite creativity with every topping. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get cooking! Don’t forget to share your experiences and any modifications you made – we would love to hear from you!