Name: Cheesy Taco Muffins
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (lean preferred); 1 oz taco seasoning (package); 1 cup water; 1 can diced tomatoes and green chiles (10-oz, undrained); 3 cups Bisquick; 1 can condensed Fiesta Nacho Cheese Soup (10.5-oz); 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup buttermilk

If you’re looking for a fun and flavorful twist on traditional tacos, you’ve found it with these Cheesy Taco Muffins! Bursting with bold flavors and a cheesy, savory goodness, these muffins are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delicious snack. They are incredibly easy to make, and your family will love them. With a delightful combination of ground beef, taco seasoning, and cheesy goodness, these muffins are sure to become a favorite in your home.

Why It Works Every Time

These Cheesy Taco Muffins are a culinary masterpiece because they combine some of the best elements of comfort food into a handheld treat. The ground beef provides a hearty base, while the taco seasoning infuses each bite with a burst of flavor. The addition of diced tomatoes and green chiles adds a hint of spice and moisture, ensuring the muffins are never dry. The condensed Fiesta Nacho Cheese Soup and shredded cheddar cheese create a rich, cheesy interior that keeps everyone coming back for more. Plus, the Bisquick gives these muffins the perfect texture, making them fluffy yet sturdy enough to hold all the delicious fillings.

Ingredient Notes

1 lb ground beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option, or you can use ground chicken or turkey for a lighter alternative.
1 (1-oz) package taco seasoning: Store-bought or homemade, this spice mix is essential for that taco flavor.
1 cup water: This helps combine the taco seasoning with the beef and adds moisture.
1 (10-oz) can diced tomatoes and green chiles, undrained: Adds flavor and a touch of spice; you can adjust the heat level based on your preference.
3 cups Bisquick: This baking mix provides the structure of the muffins; you can substitute with a gluten-free mix if needed.
1 (10.5-oz) can condensed Fiesta Nacho Cheese Soup: This adds a creamy, cheesy texture that binds the muffins together.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp or mild cheddar works well; feel free to mix in other cheeses for variety.
1 cup buttermilk: This adds moisture and richness; you can make a substitute with milk and vinegar if needed.

Essential Tools for Success

Large mixing bowl: For combining all of your ingredients smoothly.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the best results.
Muffin tin: A standard 12-cup muffin tin is required to bake your cheesy creations.
Spatula: Perfect for mixing and scraping down the sides of your bowl.
Skillet: For browning the ground beef and mixing in the spices.

Build Cheesy Taco Muffins Step by Step

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for baking the muffins.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Add Seasoning and Tomatoes

Once the beef is browned, add the taco seasoning and water to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Then, add the undrained diced tomatoes and green chiles, mixing well. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the Bisquick and shredded cheddar cheese. Make sure the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the dry mix.

Step 5: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the Fiesta Nacho Cheese Soup and buttermilk. Stir until well blended.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add the beef mixture to the dry ingredients, followed by the wet mixture. Stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 7: Fill the Muffin Tin

Grease your muffin tin with cooking spray or line it with muffin liners. Spoon the muffin batter into each cup, filling them about ¾ full.

Step 8: Bake

Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the muffin tin from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, gently remove the muffins from the tin and place them on a wire rack to cool slightly before serving.

Substitutions by Category

Meat: Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef for a leaner option.
Cheese: Swap out cheddar for Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a kick of spice.
Bisquick: A gluten-free baking mix can replace the Bisquick for a gluten-free version.
Buttermilk: Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute.

Things That Go Wrong

Dry Muffins: Overbaking can lead to dry muffins. Keep an eye on them and check with a toothpick.
Too Much Filling: If you overfill the muffin cups, the batter may overflow. Stick to ¾ full.
Cheese Not Melting: Make sure your cheese is shredded finely to ensure it melts evenly throughout the muffins.
Underseasoned: Adjust the taco seasoning to your taste; everyone has different preferences for spice!

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

To store your Cheesy Taco Muffins, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I make these muffins ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the batter a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before filling your muffin tins and baking.

Can I use other vegetables in the muffins?

Yes! Feel free to add in chopped bell peppers, corn, or even black beans for extra flavor and nutrition.

What can I serve with these muffins?

These muffins are great on their own, but you can serve them with sour cream, salsa, or guacamole for dipping!

Are these muffins kid-friendly?

Definitely! The cheesy flavor and fun muffin shape make them appealing to kids of all ages. You can even let them help with the mixing for some family fun in the kitchen.

Serve with These

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have all the details to create your own scrumptious Cheesy Taco Muffins, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! These muffins are a versatile meal option that can easily be adapted to suit your tastes. Whether for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, these cheesy delights are guaranteed to impress and satisfy. Enjoy the process and the mouthwatering results!