Crispy Beef Cones Delight

Crispy Beef Cones are a fun weeknight dinner that always impress little ones and adults too Thanks to the bold beefy filling wrapped in crunchy tortilla cones with loads of gooey cheese I have made these for backyard parties and family game nights and they always disappear fast

First time I made these my daughter thought they looked just like little ice cream cones and now she requests them for movie nights with friends

Ingredients

• Ground beef: 80 percent lean 20 percent fat for maximum juiciness and flavor Choose beef that looks bright red with no gray spots
• Yellow onion: finely chopped for sweetness and a rich base Look for onions that are firm with papery skins
• Fresh garlic: minced for an aromatic punch Always use fresh cloves for the best sharp flavor
• Tomato paste: adds depth and rich umami flavor Opt for a deep red paste with no added sugar
• Salt: enhances all the other ingredients Use kosher salt for more control
• Black pepper: ground fresh for warmth and a slight kick Freshly cracked delivers the best flavor
• Garlic powder: boosts the savory notes in the mix Make sure it is fresh not clumpy
• Smoked paprika powder: brings a hint of smokiness Spanish smoked paprika is best if you can find it
• Red chili powder: adds depth and color Use mild or hot depending on your spice preference
• Red chili flakes: give extra heat and texture I like to use crushed flakes for a burst of flavor
• Water: ensures even cooking and moisture
• Mixed bell peppers: bring color crunch and a touch of sweetness Choose firm peppers with glossy skin
• Serrano peppers: for a spicy twist Their heat is optional but great for those who like it zesty
• Oil: allows for sautéing and flavor development Use a light cooking oil like canola or avocado
• Medium tortillas halved: these shape into cones that crisp beautifully Go for flour tortillas for flexibility
• Tillamook Farmstyle Mozzarella Shredded Cheese: melts lusciously and stretches just right This brand has a super creamy texture
• Dried parsley: to add a fresh pop of color Sprinkle before serving for a pretty finish
• Cooking spray: helps crisp up the tortilla cones evenly
• Toothpicks: necessary to secure each cone as it bakes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Aromatics:

Heat oil in a pan over medium heat Allow it to get shimmering Do not rush this step for best flavor Add finely chopped onions and minced garlic Sauté gently for 1 to 2 minutes stirring often until onions turn transparent and soft This step builds your flavor base

Brown the Beef:

Add the ground beef to the pan Break it up with a spoon or spatula Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the beef changes color and begins to brown This ensures juicy flavorful bites later

Add the Seasonings:

Sprinkle in salt black pepper garlic powder smoked paprika red chili powder and red chili flakes Stir very well so each piece of beef gets coated in spice Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes to let the spices bloom

Enrich with Tomato Paste and Simmer:

Spoon in the tomato paste and stir until the mixture looks evenly red Pour in the water and reduce heat to low Cover the pan and let everything simmer for 10 to 12 minutes Stir every few minutes to prevent sticking The goal is a thick well seasoned beef mixture with most of the liquid gone

Add Peppers and Finish Filling:

Add diced bell peppers and sliced Serrano peppers if using Stir and let them cook for 3 to 4 minutes until slightly soft yet still vibrant Remove pan from heat and set filling aside

Shape and Crisp the Tortilla Cones:

Preheat your oven to 400°F Line a baking sheet with parchment paper Take each tortilla half and gently form it into a cone Secure the seam tightly with a toothpick so the shape holds Lightly spray the outside of each cone with cooking spray for maximum crunch

Bake the Empty Cones:

Arrange the cones seam side down on your prepared baking sheet Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until they are crisp and golden Watch closely to prevent burning

Fill the Cones:

Once baked fill each cone generously with the warm beef mixture and top with shredded mozzarella cheese Place the stuffed cones upright in a loaf pan to hold their shape

Melt and Finish:

Return the pan to the oven Bake for another 8 to 10 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly Take care not to overbake

Garnish and Serve:

Sprinkle the warm cones with dried parsley right after baking for a fresh finish Remove toothpicks before serving Serve warm and enjoy

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One thing I love about this dish is how the smoked paprika amps up every bite. My children love filling and stuffing their own cones and I always remember the laughter and excitement the first time we made these together as a way to spice up taco night

Storage Tips

Crispy Beef Cones are best eaten fresh if you want the crunch If you make extras let them cool completely then wrap tightly in foil and keep in the fridge They can be reheated in a toaster oven or regular oven for a few minutes to regain crispiness Avoid microwaving if possible as the tortilla will go soft

Ingredient Substitutions

No Tillamook cheese Use any good melting mozzarella or even shredded cheddar If you are out of Serrano peppers try thinly sliced jalapeño or skip the spicy element for milder taste You can also swap the mixed bell peppers for one color if that is all you have on hand

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cones with a side of sour cream salsa or a light salad for a balanced meal They work well as party appetizers next to guacamole or a fresh tomato salad If making for kids try a little ranch dressing on the side for dipping

Cultural Note

Taco inspired party foods are rooted in Tex Mex traditions and this recipe is a playful twist on classic flavors Wrapping the filling into a cone and baking it for crunch is a modern adaptation that always brings smiles at the table

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Recipe FAQs

→ How do I keep the tortilla cones crisp after baking?

Make sure to spray the tortillas lightly with cooking spray before baking, and bake the empty cones until golden before filling. Serve immediately for best crunch.

→ Can I substitute the ground beef with another protein?

Absolutely! Try using ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat for a different twist, adjusting seasoning as needed.

→ What cheese works best in these cones?

Shredded mozzarella melts beautifully, but cheddar or Monterey Jack are also great options for a deeper flavor.

→ Are the cones spicy?

The filling includes Serrano peppers and chili flakes, so it has a kick. Adjust or omit these for a milder version.

→ How do I prevent the cones from falling apart?

Secure each shaped tortilla cone with a toothpick while baking, and make sure they're crisped well before filling—they'll hold up better.

→ Can I prep these ahead?

Prepare the beef mixture and shape the cones a day early. Fill and bake just before serving for best texture.