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Close-up of crispy baked taco bites in golden mini shells filled with seasoned ground beef, black beans, corn, melted cheese, and topped with fresh diced tomatoes, green onions, and cilantro on a rustic dark green slate.

Baked Taco Bites Recipe: Easy & Flavorful Party Snack


  • Author: Kai
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 24 taco bites (12 servings) 1x

Description

If you’re anything like me, the joy of finger foods is irresistible—especially when they’re bursting with flavor and perfect for sharing. These baked taco bites are bite-sized, oven-baked, and loaded with all those savory fillings you love. Whether for game day, lunch, or casual gatherings, this recipe has you covered with endless versatility and fast prep!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (or swap for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade with chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt)
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
  • 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
  • 1 package crescent roll dough or biscuit dough (alternatively, mini taco shells or gluten-free dough)
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
  • Optional toppings: diced jalapeños, fresh cilantro, sour cream, salsa, guacamole, avocado slices

Instructions

  1. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef, onion, and garlic. Cook until beef is browned and onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Drain excess fat, then stir in the taco seasoning. Add diced tomatoes, black beans, and corn.
  3. Let the mixture simmer on low for 5-8 minutes so the flavors meld. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  5. Roll out the crescent dough and cut into circles just large enough to fit in your muffin tin cups.
  6. Press each dough circle into the muffin tin, forming a little cup.
  7. Spoon the taco filling into each dough cup. Don’t overfill — about 2 tablespoons per cup is perfect!
  8. Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over each filled cup.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the dough is golden and cheese is melted and bubbly.
  10. Let cool for a few minutes, then carefully remove the taco bites from the muffin tin.
  11. Serve warm with your favorite dips and garnishes like sour cream or guacamole.

Notes

Don’t overfill to avoid messiness. Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Adjust seasoning to your taste. Perfect for make-ahead and freezing for busy days or last-minute parties.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 taco bites
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 320mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 9g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: baked taco bites, party snack, appetizer, finger food, easy recipe, taco