Description
Garlic Bread Taco Bites are a flavorful and fun appetizer that combines the savory taste of taco-seasoned ground beef with the irresistible aroma of garlic butter on crispy bread bites. Perfect for parties or casual snacking, these bite-sized treats are topped with melted cheddar and mozzarella cheese and can be served with sour cream, salsa, or chopped green onions for extra zest.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Bread Base
- 1 loaf of French bread or Italian bread
- 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 Taco Meat
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/4 cup water
Toppings
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Optional toppings: Sour cream, salsa, or chopped green onions
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Slice the Bread: Cut the loaf of French or Italian bread into 1 to 1.5 inch squares to create bite-sized pieces. Arrange these pieces evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet. Add the taco seasoning packet and 1/4 cup water to the meat. Stir to combine and let it simmer for 5 to 7 minutes until the sauce thickens. Remove the skillet from heat.
- Prepare Garlic Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, mix together the melted unsalted butter, minced garlic, dried parsley, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This mixture will impart rich garlic flavor to the bread.
- Butter the Bread Bites: Using a brush, generously coat each bread piece with the garlic butter mixture to ensure they are flavorful and moist.
- Add Meat and Cheese: Spoon a portion of the seasoned ground beef onto each garlic-coated bread bite. Then, sprinkle shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
- Bake: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the bread turns golden brown and the cheese melts and bubbles deliciously.
- Serve: Remove the garlic bread taco bites from the oven. Serve warm, optionally garnished with sour cream, salsa, or chopped green onions for added flavor and freshness.
Notes
- Use day-old bread for better texture; it holds up well under the toppings without becoming soggy.
- Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef for a lighter option.
- Adjust the garlic butter seasoning to taste, adding more garlic or herbs if preferred.
- These bites can be kept warm in a low oven if preparing for a party.
- For extra crispiness, broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
