Tacos Appetizers

Tacos Appetizers Recipe - A Delicious Mexican Dish Made with Beef and Taco Seasoning

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Tacos are a popular Mexican dish that has gained worldwide popularity for its delicious flavors and versatility. These Tacos Appetizers are a perfect way to enjoy the flavors of tacos in a fun and easy-to-eat appetizer form.

History

Tacos have been a staple in Mexican cuisine for centuries, with the first recorded mention of tacos dating back to the 18th century. The modern version of tacos that we know and love today has evolved over time, with various fillings and toppings being added to create different variations of this beloved dish.

Ingredients

1.5 lb (680 g) ground beef
0.5 cup water
1 (1.25 oz (35 g)) envelope taco seasoning
2 (8 oz (227 g)) packages cream cheese, softened
0.25 cup milk
1 (4 oz (113 g)) can chopped green chilies, drained
2 medium tomatoes, seeded and chopped
1 cup chopped green onions
1.5 cup chopped lettuce
0.5-0.75 cup honey barbecue sauce
1.5 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 large corn chips

How to prepare

Cook the beef over medium heat until it is no longer pink; drain any excess fat.
Add water and taco seasoning to the beef and simmer for 5 minutes.
In a bowl, combine the cream cheese and milk until well mixed. Spread this mixture on a 14-inch serving platter or pizza pan.
Top the cream cheese mixture with the cooked meat.
Sprinkle chilies, tomatoes, onions, and lettuce over the meat.
Drizzle barbecue sauce over the toppings.
Sprinkle Cheddar cheese on top.
Serve with large-sized corn chips.

Variations

Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Add black beans or corn to the toppings for extra flavor and texture.
Use different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or mozzarella, for a unique twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to drain any excess fat from the cooked beef to prevent the appetizer from becoming too greasy.

- Be sure to spread the cream cheese mixture evenly on the serving platter to create a smooth base for the toppings.

- Customize the toppings to suit your taste preferences, such as adding jalapenos for a spicy kick or avocado for a creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions

These Tacos Appetizers can be served as a fun and interactive appetizer at parties or gatherings. Pair them with salsa, guacamole, and sour cream for dipping.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the beef until it is no longer pink to ensure it is fully cooked.

- Simmering the beef with taco seasoning helps to infuse the meat with flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a spicier appetizer, use hot taco seasoning or add jalapenos to the toppings.

- Substitute Greek yogurt for the cream cheese for a lighter option.

Make Ahead Tips

These Tacos Appetizers can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to serve. Simply add the toppings right before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the toppings in a colorful and visually appealing way on the serving platter to create an eye-catching appetizer.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair these Tacos Appetizers with a refreshing margarita or a cold beer for a delicious combination.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of these Tacos Appetizers contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of these Tacos Appetizers contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of these Tacos Appetizers contains approximately 20 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of these Tacos Appetizers contains approximately 25 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

These Tacos Appetizers are a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

These Tacos Appetizers contain dairy (cream cheese, cheddar cheese) and gluten (taco seasoning, corn chips).

Summary

These Tacos Appetizers are a delicious and satisfying appetizer option that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.

Summary

These Tacos Appetizers are a fun and tasty way to enjoy the flavors of tacos in a bite-sized form. With a creamy base, savory beef, and a variety of toppings, these appetizers are sure to be a hit at your next gathering.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Tacos Appetizers. It was a hot summer day, and I was rummaging through the old recipe box that my mother had passed down to me. As I flipped through the yellowed index cards and tattered pieces of paper, I stumbled upon a hand-written recipe for Tacos Appetizers that was clearly well-loved and well-used.

The recipe was written in my grandmother's elegant cursive handwriting, with detailed instructions and notes in the margins. It was clear that this was a recipe that had been passed down through generations, and I couldn't wait to try my hand at making it.

I remember visiting my grandmother's house as a child and being greeted by the delicious aroma of her cooking. She was a master in the kitchen, always experimenting with new recipes and techniques. I would watch in awe as she effortlessly whipped up meals that were not only delicious but filled with love and care.

One day, I decided to ask my grandmother for her recipe for Tacos Appetizers. She smiled warmly and led me into the kitchen, where we spent the afternoon cooking together. She showed me how to prepare the ingredients, from the homemade taco seasoning to the crispy tortilla shells. She shared stories of how she learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had immigrated from Mexico many years ago.

As we cooked, my grandmother shared her tips and tricks for making the perfect Tacos Appetizers. She emphasized the importance of using fresh ingredients and taking the time to season each component just right. She taught me how to properly fry the tortilla shells until they were golden and crispy, and how to assemble the tacos with a generous helping of beef, cheese, and fresh toppings.

I watched in awe as my grandmother worked her magic in the kitchen, effortlessly creating a dish that was not only delicious but filled with memories and tradition. I could see the love and care she poured into each step of the cooking process, and I knew that this recipe was more than just a collection of ingredients – it was a piece of our family history.

After hours of cooking and chatting, we finally sat down to enjoy the fruits of our labor. The Tacos Appetizers were a hit, with their perfectly seasoned meat, gooey cheese, and crunchy shell. As we savored each bite, my grandmother shared more stories of her childhood and the recipes she had learned from her own mother.

That day, I realized the power of food to connect us to our past and bring us closer together. The recipe for Tacos Appetizers became a cherished part of my own culinary repertoire, a reminder of the love and tradition that my grandmother had passed down to me.

Now, whenever I make Tacos Appetizers, I think of my grandmother and the special day we spent cooking together. I can feel her presence in the kitchen, guiding me as I prepare the ingredients and assemble the tacos with care. And as I share this recipe with my own family and friends, I know that I am passing down a piece of our family history – one delicious bite at a time.