It's December something-teen at 6pm, and you've just remembered you promised to take a hot appetizer to a function that, until about 10 minutes ago, you didn't even remember RSVPing "yes" to. And, it's likely that you have little party food stock on hand. You really don't feel like aimlessly roaming the supermarket aisles at this time of day with a head full of hot rollers, plus, you're not wanting to spend an hour in the kitchen once back home.
We feel ya. We've been there. And so, we are happy to present to you our favourite easy and delcious "Make it and Take it" hot appetizers for your next party panic. THANK YOU, UNKNOWN PERSON, FOR INVENTING OLD EL PASO MINI TACO BOWLS.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or use a Mexican blend; it's all good!)
1 clove garlic, pressed or grated
1 jalapeno pepper, chopped, seeds included if you like spice but be warned; some peppers are "muy caliente."
¼ cup crumbled bacon or real bacon bits
¼ tsp each salt and pepper
What you do:
In a bowl big enough to hold everything - THIS IS PANIC TIME USE A SAUCEPAN IF YOU NEED TO - mix all ingredients (except taco bowls, natch) together until well combined.
Spoon filling into taco bowls and place on foil or parchment lined baking sheet (because who wants to wash a pan? NOT THIS GAL) and bake at 350 until hot and browned at edges, about 12 or 13 minutes.
Now, these are going to be delicious, granted. BUT PLEASE - wait 5 minutes. They are lava hot and the wait will be worth it.
Spoon a small scoop of cinnamon sugar around or on each bowl and it will stick to the butter. FULL DISCLOSURE: My first 5 or 6 were beautiful, and then I looked at the clock and it was SUGAR ALL THE THINGS but the good news is these are so delicious that no one is going to care about aesthtetic with a mouth full of appley-caramel goodness.
Spoon filling into each boat and place on foil/parchment lined baking sheet and bake at 350 until hot - so for like 12 minutes or even 10 minutes if your partner is at the door and has their shoes on.
Let cool for 2 or 3 minutes and drizzle with caramel and sprinkle with icing sugar.
Prepare to be hailed "Potluck Princess; Neighbourhood Hero." Go ahead; have a shirt made.
Makes 12 appetizers and probably some filling to spare (eat it hot in a mug tomorrow.)
2- Bite Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas
Together we can make "no fork" enchiladas a thing.
Mix can of refried beans with chillies, salt, pepper, chili powder and shredded, cooked chicken and a few tablespoons of salsa.
Spread filling in mini taco bowls to make about 1/3 deep (leave room for next round of goodies!)
Add a spoonful (I used a measuring spoon. No; that's a lie. I used a soup spoon. Okay; that's a lie, too. I used a Paw Patrol spoon we got free from a fast food restaurant somewhere) of salsa to each boat.
Top with shredded cheddar and bake at 360 (this one needs a high temp to get beans hot) for 12-15 minutes.
Let cool for 2 minutes, sprinkle with chopped cilantro, and take the hot rollers out of your hair because you are party ready, my friend.
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