Beef and Bean Tiny Tacos Recipe

Cook Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1/2 cup water
• 48 round corn tortilla chips (from a 11-ounce bag)
• 1 (14-ounce) can refried beans
• 8 ounces shredded Mexican blend cheese
• 1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro
• 1/4 cup taco sauce for dipping (or as needed)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350F (175C).
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook while breaking it apart with a spatula. Stir occasionally until the meat is browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the taco seasoning and water to the beef. Stir everything together, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Continue cooking for a few more minutes until the meat is evenly coated with the seasoning. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Arrange the tortilla chips in a single layer on the bottom of two rimmed baking sheets.
5. Spread a thin layer of refried beans on top of each chip, ensuring it's even.
6. Evenly distribute the seasoned taco meat over the beans, followed by a generous sprinkling of shredded cheese.
7. Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. As soon as the chips are baked, carefully fold each chip in half to form a taco shape.
9. Transfer the taco nachos to a serving platter. Serve with taco sauce on the side for dipping.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 808
• Total Fat: 51g (65% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 10g (49% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 52mg (17% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 1024mg (45% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 67g (24% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 5g (18% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 24g (47% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 26mg (29% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 169mg (13% Daily Value)
• Iron: 3mg (18% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 1630mg (35% Daily Value)

Note: Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. If you're following a medically restrictive diet, consult with a doctor or dietitian before preparing this recipe.

Beef and Bean Tiny Tacos are a fun and delicious twist on the classic Mexican taco, perfect for parties or casual family dinners. These mini tacos are made using round corn tortilla chips, filled with taco-seasoned beef, refried beans, and melted cheese. A quick, easy, and savory treat that combines all the favorite flavors of a taco in bite-sized portions.

History and Origins

The taco, a quintessential Mexican dish, has deep historical roots dating back to the indigenous peoples of Mexico, who used tortillas to hold food. The concept of "tiny tacos," as seen in this recipe, is more modern, likely emerging in the United States, where smaller, bite-sized snacks gained popularity in the 20th century. Mini tacos, such as the Beef and Bean Tiny Tacos, reflect the evolving nature of the taco, from its traditional form to the more contemporary, party-friendly variations that we enjoy today.

Regional Characteristics

Tacos themselves are incredibly versatile, with regional variations throughout Mexico. In northern Mexico, for example, tacos are often filled with grilled meats, while in other regions, such as the Yucatn Peninsula, tacos may include more complex fillings like cochinita pibil (slow-cooked pork). This particular recipe, with ground beef and refried beans, is more typical of Tex-Mex cuisine, a fusion of Mexican and American food traditions. The use of tortilla chips to create a taco-shaped vessel is a playful innovation seen more commonly in Americanized Mexican food.

Difference from Similar Dishes

While the Beef and Bean Tiny Tacos are a fun take on traditional tacos, they differ significantly from classic soft or hard-shell tacos. The use of corn chips as the base for the taco shapes sets this dish apart, creating a crisp and crunchy texture that enhances the flavor. Additionally, the incorporation of refried beans alongside the seasoned beef gives these mini tacos a richness thats not typical of standard tacos, which might focus more heavily on the protein or vegetables.

Where They're Typically Served

Beef and Bean Tiny Tacos are ideal as appetizers or finger foods at gatherings like birthday parties, game nights, or casual barbecues. Their small size and portability make them easy to serve and enjoy in a group setting. This dish is commonly found at Tex-Mex restaurants or fusion eateries that blend traditional Mexican ingredients with American flavors. They also make a perfect addition to a party buffet, where guests can snack and socialize without the need for cutlery.

Fun Facts About Beef and Bean Tiny Tacos

• The concept of using tortilla chips as taco bases is believed to have originated in California, where chefs began experimenting with different ways to serve tacos in bite-sized portions.
• The combination of beef and beans in tacos is often seen as a way to balance the rich, meaty flavor with the creamy texture of the beans, making it a filling option thats both hearty and satisfying.
• Refried beans, a key ingredient in this recipe, are not actually "fried" twice, as the name might suggest. The term refers to the method of cooking beans until they are soft and then mashing them for a creamy consistency.
• Mini tacos like these have become a trendy snack option in many areas, especially during football season, as they are easy to eat while watching a game.

FAQ about Beef and Bean Tiny Tacos Recipe