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Ground turkey tacos in a cream colored dish on a wooden table with cilantro scattered around.
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Ground Turkey Taco Cupcakes

Looking for a creative, kid-friendly, and healthy dinner idea? These Ground Turkey Taco Cupcakes are the perfect bite-sized twist on traditional tacos—layered with flavor, packed with lean protein, and baked to perfection in a muffin tin. They're ideal for meal prep, game day snacks, or quick weeknight dinners!
Course Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine Mexican
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 12 cupcakes
Calories 259kcal
Author Jillian Schneider

Equipment

  • baking sheet
  • 12 cup muffin tin
  • colander

Ingredients

  • 12 corn tortillas
  • cooking spray
  • ½ cup shredded taco cheese blend
  • 1 large tomato or 2 small tomatoes chopped
  • plain greek yogurt or sour cream optional topping
  • ¼ cup low-sodium beef broth can also use bone broth
  • ⅓ cup taco seasoning purchase pre-made or use the spices below
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp chili powder

Instructions

  • Step 1 - Preheat oven to 350 °.  Spray a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray.  Also, line a baking sheet with foil and spray with cooking spray, as well!  Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat.  Add ground turkey and cook until browned. 
  • Step 2 - Drain ground turkey in a colander and return skillet.  Add broth and the homemade taco seasoning. Mix to combine. 
  • Step 3 - Spray each side of the tortilla with cooking spray and lay it on the prepared baking sheet lined with foil. Bake for 5 minutes.
  • Step 4 - Remove from oven and slowly push each one into the prepared muffin tin. Be careful, they will be a little hot from just baking in the oven. Bake for another 10 minutes to crisp them up.
  • Step 5 - Fill up the corn tortillas with the ground turkey and top with tomatoes and cheese.  Put back in the oven for 10 more minutes until the tortilla is firm and the cheese is melted. 
  • Step 6 - Remove and add your favorite toppings.

Notes

How can the kids help?
Little Chefs Can:
  • Spoon in the taco mixture (with help!)
  • Sprinkle shredded cheese
  • Add toppings like avocado, Greek yogurt, or salsa
  • Be the official "taste testers"
Pro Tip: Assign each child their own “cupcake station” for a fun and mess-free taco night!
Can I use ground beef instead of ground turkey?
Yes! Swap in lean ground beef or even ground chicken if preferred. Just make sure to drain any excess grease.
Can I make these taco cupcakes ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can prep and assemble them the night before. Store covered in the fridge and bake when ready to serve.
Can I freeze taco cupcakes?
Absolutely. You can prep and assemble them the night before. Store covered in the fridge and bake when ready to serve.
What toppings go best with taco cupcakes?
Greek yogurt (as a sour cream substitute), avocado, pico de gallo, fresh cilantro, shredded lettuce, or even a drizzle of hot sauce!

Nutrition

Serving: 1taco cupcake | Calories: 259kcal | Carbohydrates: 33.6g | Protein: 15.6g | Fat: 7.5g | Saturated Fat: 2.8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 29.2mg | Sodium: 637mg | Potassium: 7mg | Fiber: 3.5g | Sugar: 2.1g | Vitamin A: 2IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 12mg | Iron: 13mg