Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. 2

   In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 lb ground beef (or chicken) and cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Break it apart with a spoon to ensure even cooking.

3. 3

   Add the finely chopped onion (1 small onion) and minced garlic (2 cloves) to the skillet. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

4. 4

   Stir in the taco seasoning (1 packet) and water (1/2 cup). Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

5. 5

   While the meat mixture is cooking, prepare the taco shells or tortilla cups. Arrange them in a muffin tin to hold their shape.

6. 6

   Once the meat is ready, begin layering. Start by spreading about 1 tablespoon of refried beans (1 can) in the bottom of each taco shell.

7. 7

   Add a generous spoonful of the seasoned meat mixture on top of the beans.

8. 8

   Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups) over the meat in each cupcake.

9. 9

   Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the taco shell is crispy.

10. 10

    Remove from the oven and let cool for a couple of minutes. Carefully remove the Taco Cupcakes from the muffin tin.

11. 11

    Top each cupcake with salsa (1 cup), sour cream (1/2 cup), shredded lettuce (1 cup), and diced tomatoes (1 medium tomato). Garnish with chopped cilantro (1/4 cup) if desired.