Craving that satisfying crunch and explosion of flavor from Applebee's Taco Wonton Tacos, but without the restaurant price tag? This recipe brings that deliciousness right to your kitchen! These homemade wonton tacos are surprisingly easy to make, bursting with savory taco filling, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend gathering. Get ready for a flavor fiesta!
Ingredients:
For the Taco Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1 (15 ounce) can of black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can of corn, drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For Assembly:
- 1 package (20-24 count) wonton wrappers
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- Cooking spray or oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Taco Filling:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with the onion and bell pepper until the beef is cooked through and the vegetables are softened.
- Drain off any excess grease.
- Stir in the taco seasoning and water. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Stir in the black beans and corn and heat through. Remove from heat and stir in half of the shredded cheese.
2. Assemble the Wonton Tacos:
- Lay out your wonton wrappers on a clean surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the taco filling in the center of each wrapper.
- Lightly brush the edges of the wonton wrappers with the beaten egg.
- Fold the wrappers in half to form a triangle, pressing the edges firmly to seal. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
3. Fry the Wonton Tacos:
- Heat about 1/2 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Alternatively, you can spray a large skillet with cooking spray for a healthier, lighter option.
- Carefully place a few wontons in the hot oil or skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd.
- Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the wontons from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
4. Serve and Enjoy!
- Top the crispy wonton tacos with the remaining shredded cheese, your favorite taco toppings (salsa, sour cream, guacamole, shredded lettuce), and a squeeze of lime. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious homemade Applebee's copycat Taco Wonton Tacos!
Cooking Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a teaspoon of chili powder or cumin to the taco filling.
- Make it spicy: Include a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños in the filling.
- Vegetarian option: Substitute the ground beef with 1 cup of cooked lentils or crumbled vegetarian chorizo.
- Bake instead of fry: Arrange the filled wontons on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, brush with oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving):
This will vary depending on the ingredients used and portion size. Use a nutrition calculator for a precise estimate based on your specific ingredients.
This recipe provides a quick, easy, and delicious alternative to ordering out. These wonton tacos are perfect for satisfying those cravings for a fun, flavorful, and relatively healthy meal – a perfect addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals! They're a great addition to your quick dinner ideas arsenal too! Enjoy the homemade cooking experience and the delicious results!