Nothing beats the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked Enchilada Cups wafting through your kitchen. Picture this: crispy tortilla cups filled to the brim with savory goodness, melting cheese, and a hint of spice that makes your taste buds dance. These little wonders are not just food; they’re a fiesta on your plate, perfect for any gathering or simply a cozy night in with your loved ones.

I remember the first time I made these Enchilada Cups. My friends gathered around, their eyes wide with anticipation as I pulled them out of the oven. The moment they took their first bite, their smiles said it all – pure bliss! Whether you’re hosting a game night or enjoying a family dinner, these delightful bites promise to be a hit every time. For more inspiration, check out this more dinner recipes recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Enchilada Cups are quick to prepare, making them ideal for busy weeknights
- Their bold flavors will impress even the pickiest eaters at your table
- Visually stunning, they add a pop of color to any meal
- Plus, you can customize the fillings based on what you have handy or your personal preferences
My best friend still talks about that epic night when I surprised everyone with my culinary creation. They couldn’t believe how delicious and fun they were! For more inspiration, check out this delicious lunch options recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Flour Tortillas: Opt for small tortillas; they shape perfectly into cups and hold all those tasty fillings.
Ground Beef or Chicken: Choose lean meat for healthier options; it absorbs flavors beautifully during cooking.
Enchilada Sauce: A good quality sauce enhances flavor; feel free to use red or green based on your preference.
Shredded Cheese: A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack melts wonderfully and adds richness to each cup.
Black Beans: Canned black beans are convenient and provide protein and fiber for an extra nutritious boost.
Chopped Onions: Freshly chopped onions add crunch and sweetness; sauté until translucent for best flavor.
Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream on top brings creaminess that balances out the spices beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Enchilada Cups
Prepare Your Ingredients: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Gather all ingredients on your countertop for easy access while cooking.
Shape the Tortillas: Lightly spray muffin tins with nonstick spray. Gently press each tortilla into muffin cups to form little bowls for your filling.
Sauté the Filling Ingredients: In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground meat until browned. Add chopped onions and cook until they’re soft and fragrant.
Add Flavorful Sauce and Beans: Stir in enchilada sauce and black beans into the skillet mixture. Let it simmer for about five minutes so flavors meld together nicely.
Fill the Tortilla Cups: Spoon generous amounts of the filling into each tortilla cup. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top like you’re decorating a mini masterpiece.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Place in the oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes until tortillas are crispy and cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Now all that’s left is serving these beauties hot from the oven! Enjoy garnishing with fresh cilantro or avocado slices if you like extra flair!
With every bite of these Enchilada Cups, you’ll experience layers of flavor that will leave you wanting more – trust me; it’s hard to stop at just one!
You Must Know
- Enchilada cups are a fun twist on the traditional dish, perfect for parties or cozy nights in
- The blend of spices and melted cheese fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas
- Plus, they are customizable to suit everyone’s tastes, making them an easy crowd-pleaser
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven while you prepare your filling. Sauté onions and peppers, then mix with shredded chicken and spices before assembling your enchilada cups.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap chicken for black beans or add jalapeños for a spicy kick. Experiment with different cheeses to elevate this tasty treat!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover enchilada cups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm and crispy again.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly crispy enchilada cups, ensure your tortillas are slightly toasted before filling
- Use fresh ingredients for vibrant flavors that pop!
- Don’t skimp on cheese—it’s the glue that holds these delicious bites together!
Sharing these delightful enchilada cups with friends always leads to laughter and compliments around the table; they’ll keep asking for seconds!
FAQ
Can I make enchilada cups ahead of time?
Yes, assemble them a few hours early and bake just before serving.
What type of cheese works best in enchilada cups?
Mexican blend cheese melts beautifully, but cheddar or queso fresco are great alternatives.
Are enchilada cups gluten-free?
Use corn tortillas instead of flour to make them gluten-free and just as delicious!

Enchilada Cups
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- Author: Ann Foster
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Enchilada Cups are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, serving up crispy tortilla cups brimming with savory meat, zesty enchilada sauce, and melted cheese. These bite-sized delights are perfect for parties or a cozy family night, offering customizable flavors to suit every palate. With a quick prep time and bold taste, they guarantee smiles all around. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delicious twist on a classic dish!
Ingredients
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 1 lb lean ground beef or chicken
- 1 cup enchilada sauce (red or green)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- ½ cup sour cream
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and gather all ingredients.
- Lightly spray muffin tins with nonstick spray. Press each tortilla into the cups to form bowls.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground meat until browned. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft.
- Stir in enchilada sauce and black beans; simmer for about five minutes.
- Spoon filling into tortilla cups and top with shredded cheese.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until crispy and golden.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 70mg