Taco Cupcakes are a fun and inventive twist on traditional tacos that bring all the flavors of your favorite Mexican dish into a delightful bite-sized treat. These savory cupcakes feature a savory cornbread base filled with seasoned ground beef, cheese, and topped with fresh salsa, sour cream, and a sprinkle of cilantro. Ideal for parties, game days, or a casual weeknight dinner, Taco Cupcakes are sure to impress your family and friends with their delicious flavors and playful presentation. They are easy to make and can be customized with your favorite taco toppings, making them a versatile option for any occasion.
Ingredients
- For the Cornbread Cupcakes:
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- For the Taco Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 cup salsa
- For Toppings:
- Sour cream
- Sliced jalapeños (optional)
- Chopped cilantro
- Diced tomatoes
- Shredded lettuce
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- Make the Cornbread Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, combine the milk, vegetable oil, and egg. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Prepare the Taco Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat, then add the taco seasoning and water. Simmer for about 5 minutes until thickened. Stir in the salsa and remove from heat.
- Assemble the Taco Cupcakes: Fill each muffin cup halfway with the cornbread batter. Spoon a tablespoon of the taco filling into each cup, then top with more cornbread batter until each cup is filled about 3/4 full.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes or until the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Top: Allow the Taco Cupcakes to cool for a few minutes. Top each cupcake with a dollop of sour cream, sliced jalapeños, chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, and shredded lettuce.
These Taco Cupcakes are a deliciously creative way to enjoy tacos, making them perfect for any gathering or as a fun family dinner option. Enjoy!
