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Taco Ranch Bites

Taco Ranch Bites

These Taco Ranch Bites are packed with flavor, simple to make, and surprisingly good for you. Tender bites bursting with taco goodness and a hint of ranch, perfect for lunchboxes, after-school snacks, or a quick dinner when time is tight.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 24 bites
Course: Appetizer, Main Course, Snack
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Taco Filling:
  • 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
  • 1 packet taco seasoning low sodium
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/2 cup black beans drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup corn fresh, frozen, or canned
  • 1/4 cup diced onion
For the Ranch Bites:
  • 1 cup whole wheat flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
Toppings (Optional):
  • Shredded lettuce
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Salsa
  • Avocado slices

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Large Bowl
  • Baking Sheet
  • Cookie Cutter or Knife

Method
 

  1. Brown the Meat: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef or turkey over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
  2. Add Seasoning: Stir in the taco seasoning and water. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed.
  3. Combine Filling: Add the black beans, corn, and diced onion to the skillet. Mix well and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Set aside.
  4. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and garlic powder.
  5. Add Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, milk, and olive oil.
  6. Combine Dough: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
  7. Shape the Bites: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface, about 1/4 inch thick. Use a small cookie cutter or knife to cut out circles.
  8. Assemble Bites: Place the dough circles on a greased baking sheet. Spoon a small amount of the taco filling onto each circle.
  9. Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the bites are golden brown.
  10. Serve: Top with your favorite toppings and enjoy!

Notes

Choose lean ground meat to minimize grease. Using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken (shredded) is also a great time-saver. Don’t overmix the dough to maintain its tenderness; gently combine until just incorporated. For a crisper bite, lightly brush the tops of the dough with olive oil before baking. If you’re short on time, pre-made biscuit dough can be used as a substitute, but homemade often gives a better texture. Consider adding spices like smoky paprika or cayenne pepper to the dough for a spicier kick. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven or microwave to maintain their texture and flavor.