Taco Ranch Bites Perfect for Game Day Snacks

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 cup ranch dressing
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 0.5 cup chopped green onions
• 0.5 cup black olives, sliced
• 1 package mini phyllo pastry cups
• 1 Prise salt (to taste)
• 1 Prise pepper (to taste)

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef or turkey over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat, if needed.
2. Add the taco seasoning to the meat, along with a splash of water (about 0.25 cup), and stir. Allow to simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.
3. Remove the skillet from heat and let the meat mixture cool for about 5 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the ranch dressing and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well to combine.
5. If using phyllo pastry cups, place them on a baking sheet. If using tortilla chips, arrange them in a single layer on a serving platter.
6. Spoon a generous tablespoon of the taco meat mixture into each phyllo cup or onto each tortilla chip.
7. Top each cup or chip with a dollop of ranch cheese mixture, followed by diced tomatoes, chopped green onions, and black olives.
8. Finally, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top of each bite.
9. Bake the filled phyllo cups in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for around 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves (if using), and serve hot.