Cheesy Taco Muffins (Perfect for Parties!)

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Created on August 31st, 2025 at 10:58 am

Bite-size flavor bombs for any occasion

Looking for a fun twist on Taco Tuesday or a new party snack idea? These Cheesy Taco Muffins pack all the flavor of a classic taco—seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and Tex-Mex spices—into fluffy, handheld muffin form! Whether you’re hosting a game day party, prepping lunchbox-friendly meals, or need a no-fork-required dish for your next potluck, this mini muffin recipe is your go-to. Quick to whip up and endlessly customizable, these muffins are a cozy comfort food you can enjoy on the go. You’ll love how Pampered Chef simple they are—no fancy ingredients, just real, satisfying flavor. 🎉🌮

Veggie taco muffins with corn and beans baked to golden perfection.

⏱️ Time Breakdown

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 12–14 muffins

📝 Ingredients List

1 lb ground beef (or ground chicken for a lighter option)
1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend
1 cup milk
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
1 tsp taco seasoning (or to taste)
2 large eggs
¼ cup crème fraîche or Greek yogurt
¼ cup diced onion
½ cup diced bell pepper (optional)
½ cup corn kernels (optional)
1–2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free:

12-cup muffin tin
Large skillet or frying pan
Mixing bowls (one large, one medium)
Measuring cups & spoons
Whisk
Wooden spoon or spatula
Ice cream scoop or spoon (for portioning batter)
Oven mitts
Wire cooling rack

🧑‍🍳 Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line with paper liners.
Sauté the filling: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper; cook 2–3 minutes until softened. Add ground beef and cook until fully browned. Stir in taco seasoning and salt. Add corn if using. Remove from heat. 🌽
Make the batter: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, mix eggs, milk, and crème fraîche until smooth. Pour wet ingredients into dry and stir just until combined.
Add cheese and beef: Fold in shredded cheese, then the taco beef mixture. Don’t overmix! 🧀
Portion and bake: Use a scoop to fill each muffin cup about ¾ full. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and serve: Let muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Garnish with fresh cilantro, sour cream, or guacamole if desired. 🥑

💡 Pro Tips

Make ahead: These freeze beautifully. Just reheat in the microwave for a quick snack or lunch.
Switch it up: Use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef. Or make them vegetarian with black beans and extra corn.
Add heat: Like it spicy? Toss in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the batter.
Party perfect: Serve with salsa or queso for dipping at your next gathering.

📊 Nutrition Table

Serving Size	Calories	Protein	Carbs	Fat	Fiber	Sugar
1 muffin	300	18g	20g	12g	2g	3g

Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.