Big Game Mini Tacos (Printable Version)
Mini tacos with seasoned beef and fresh salsa, perfect for party appetizers or game day bites.
# What You Need:
→ For the Mini Tacos
01 - 24 mini corn tortillas (or cut regular tortillas into 3-inch rounds)
02 - 1 lb ground beef
03 - 1 tbsp olive oil
04 - 1 small onion, finely chopped
05 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 1 tsp chili powder
07 - 1 tsp ground cumin
08 - ½ tsp smoked paprika
09 - ½ tsp salt
10 - ¼ tsp black pepper
11 - ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
12 - ½ cup shredded lettuce
→ For the Fresh Salsa
13 - 2 medium ripe tomatoes, diced
14 - ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
15 - 1 small jalapeño, seeded and minced
16 - ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
17 - Juice of 1 lime
18 - ½ tsp salt
19 - ¼ tsp ground black pepper
→ Optional Toppings
20 - ¼ cup sour cream
21 - 1 avocado, sliced
# How to Make It:
01 - Combine diced tomatoes, red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly and set aside to allow flavors to meld together.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
03 - Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and cooked through, approximately 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat from the pan.
04 - Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper evenly over the beef. Stir to coat the meat completely with spices. Cook for 1 additional minute, then remove from heat.
05 - Heat mini tortillas in a dry pan or microwave until warm and pliable, taking care not to overheat or dry them out.
06 - Spoon a small portion of seasoned beef onto each tortilla. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, lettuce, and a generous spoonful of fresh salsa.
07 - Add sour cream or avocado slices if desired for extra richness and flavor.
08 - Arrange mini tacos on a serving platter and serve immediately while warm for best results.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- The two-bite size means everyone can sample without committing to a full taco
- Make ahead friendly so you can actually enjoy the party instead of being stuck in the kitchen
02 -
- Cold tortillas crack and break when you try to fold them, so never skip the warming step
- The salsa needs at least 15 minutes to meld, so make it first and let it hang out while you cook
03 -
- Sprinkle a little cheese on the beef while it is still warm so it melts slightly before assembly
- Set out small spoons or forks so guests do not have to use their fingers