Description
These Garlic Bread Taco Bites combine the savory flavors of seasoned ground beef with the rich taste of garlic butter on crispy French bread, topped with melted cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Perfect as a party appetizer or a fun snack, they deliver a delightful mix of textures and flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Bread Base
- 1 loaf of French bread or Italian bread
For the Taco Beef Filling
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/4 cup water
For the Garlic Butter
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheese Topping
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Optional Toppings
- Sour cream
- Salsa
- Chopped green onions
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.
- Slice the Bread: Slice the loaf of bread into bite-sized pieces, approximately 1 to 1.5 inch squares. Arrange these evenly on the prepared baking sheet to ensure they cook uniformly.
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it into smaller pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat for a cleaner taste. Then, add the taco seasoning packet and 1/4 cup water, stir well, and let it simmer for 5 to 7 minutes until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat.
- Prepare Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, minced garlic, dried parsley, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly, then brush this flavorful garlic butter generously over each bread piece to add richness and aroma.
- Assemble the Bites: On each piece of garlic buttered bread, spoon a portion of the seasoned ground beef mixture. Then sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top for a perfect cheesy finish.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the bites for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the bread edges turn golden brown and the cheese melts into bubbly goodness.
- Serve: Remove the bites from the oven and serve them warm. Optionally, add dollops of sour cream, salsa, or sprinkle chopped green onions for extra flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Use freshly minced garlic for the best flavor in the garlic butter.
- French bread or Italian bread with a firm crust works best to hold the toppings without becoming soggy.
- Drain excess fat after browning the beef to avoid greasy bites.
- You can prepare the seasoned beef ahead of time and refrigerate it for quicker assembly later.
- Optional toppings like sour cream and salsa add freshness and balance to the rich flavors.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the oven for best texture.
