Golden, cheesy, and irresistibly savory, Cheesy Taco Cupcakes are the handheld snack you didn’t know you needed. These little bites pack a punch with flavorful seasoned beef, melted cheddar, and a flaky crust that holds it all together. They’re perfect for game nights, potlucks, or a fun twist on Taco Tuesday.

Think of them as tacos meets muffins, topped with ooey-gooey cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for flair. With every bite, you’ll get the spicy, creamy, and crispy contrast that makes tacos so beloved — just in a totally new form.

What Kind of Taco Shell Should I Use for Cheesy Taco Cupcakes?

Instead of traditional taco shells, these cupcakes use refrigerated biscuit dough or crescent roll dough as a base. They mold easily into muffin tins, creating a soft, slightly crisp crust that hugs the taco filling. You could also use wonton wrappers for a thinner, crisper shell.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Taco Cupcakes

Ground Beef
This is the core of the filling, bringing hearty texture and flavor. Use lean beef or swap with ground turkey for a lighter version.

Taco Seasoning
Brings the zesty, smoky, and spicy flavor that defines a taco. You can use a packet or make your own blend with chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic.

Crescent Roll Dough or Biscuit Dough
Acts as the base and “cup” that holds the taco filling. These bake up golden and provide a soft contrast to the cheesy topping.

Cheddar Cheese
Melted on top, it adds rich, creamy sharpness. Feel free to use shredded cheese blends for more depth.

Black Beans (optional)
Adds a bit of extra protein and texture. They complement the beef and make the cupcakes heartier.

Sour Cream or Cream Cheese (optional)
A spoonful mixed into the beef filling brings a creamy tang that balances the spices.

Fresh Parsley or Cilantro
Used for garnish. Adds freshness and color right before serving.

How To Make the Cheesy Taco Cupcakes

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Muffin Tin

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a standard muffin tin or line with paper cupcake liners to make removal easier.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Filling

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat. Stir in taco seasoning and a splash of water (as package directs) and simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened. Optional: mix in black beans or a spoonful of cream cheese for extra texture and flavor.

Step 3: Shape the Dough Cups

Take your biscuit or crescent dough and divide into 8-10 equal portions. Flatten each one and press into the muffin tin, forming a cup shape that lines the bottom and sides.

Step 4: Fill the Cups

Spoon the seasoned beef mixture into each dough cup, filling just to the top. Press down gently to compact the mixture slightly.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Bake

Top each filled cup with a generous pinch of shredded cheddar cheese. Bake for 13-16 minutes, or until the dough is golden and cheese is bubbly and melty.

Step 6: Cool and Garnish

Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes before removing. Sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro on top for a fresh finish.

Serving and Storing Cheesy Taco Cupcakes

These savory cupcakes are best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven when the cheese is perfectly melted and the crust has a tender bite. Serve them as party appetizers, a weeknight dinner, or as part of a taco bar buffet. They pair well with fresh salsa, guacamole, or even a drizzle of hot sauce.

To store leftovers, let the cupcakes cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or standard oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain crispness. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the dough soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the dough from getting soggy?

Ensure you pre-cook any ingredients with high moisture, like onions or beans, and don’t overfill the dough cups. Baking until golden also helps seal the bottom.

Can I freeze Cheesy Taco Cupcakes?

Yes! Let them cool fully, then wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven without thawing for best texture.

What other fillings can I use?

Try shredded chicken, ground turkey, or even veggie crumbles. You can also mix in corn, diced bell peppers, or jalapeños for a twist.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Use gluten-free biscuit or crescent dough available at specialty grocery stores. Always check your taco seasoning ingredients, too.

Are these spicy?

The spice level depends on your taco seasoning. You can use mild or hot versions and add hot sauce or jalapeños for extra heat.

What if I don’t have a muffin tin?

You can try baking them in ramekins or mini pie dishes. Just adjust baking times based on size and depth.

Cheesy Taco Cupcakes

Author: Jam Scott
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 8-10 cupcakes

Print Recipe

Description

Golden, cheesy, and handheld — these Cheesy Taco Cupcakes are loaded with seasoned beef, melty cheddar, and baked inside a soft biscuit or crescent dough shell. A perfect bite-sized twist for taco night, parties, or make-ahead snacks.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef

1 packet taco seasoning

¼ cup water

1 can crescent roll dough or biscuit dough

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

½ cup black beans (optional)

2 tbsp cream cheese or sour cream (optional)

Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a muffin tin or line with paper liners.
Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain fat.
Add taco seasoning and water; simmer until thickened. Stir in optional cream cheese or beans.
Divide dough into 8-10 portions, flatten, and press into muffin cups.
Fill each cup with beef mixture. Top with shredded cheese.
Bake for 13-16 minutes until golden and cheese is melted.
Cool 5 minutes before removing. Garnish with parsley or cilantro.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Appetizers

Want More Appetizer Ideas with a Twist?

If you love these cheesy taco cupcakes, you’ll probably enjoy these other bold and flavorful bites:

Spicy Sailor’s Dip with bold heat and creamy texture.
Green Olive and Feta Cheese Dip for a Mediterranean tang.
Cheesy Cauliflower Patties as a lower-carb, veggie-packed option.
Cranberry Sauce Meatballs for that sweet-savory balance.
The Cheese Dip That Will Make You Famous — need we say more?

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board for appetizers or party food so you can revisit it anytime.

And I’d love to hear how your cheesy taco cupcakes turned out! Did you use crescent dough or biscuits? Did you sneak in some jalapeños or mix up the cheese?

Drop your tweaks, tips, or any questions in the comments. Sharing helps everyone bring their best bites to the table!