Bali-Style Cheeseburger Cups: A Fun and Delicious Snack for Kids
Looking for a fun and easy snack idea for your kids in Bali? These Bali-Style Cheeseburger Cups are the perfect bite-sized treat!
Using local ingredients like ground beef, tropical seasonings, and gooey cheddar cheese, these mini burgers are packed into a cup shape that’s easy for little hands to hold.
Perfect for lunchboxes, after-school snacks, or family picnics, these cheeseburger cups are both nutritious and fun to make.
Get your kids involved in the kitchen and enjoy this tropical twist on a classic favorite!
What are Cheeseburger Cups?
Cheeseburger cups are a creative twist on the classic cheeseburger. Instead of a traditional burger, the ingredients are baked in a cup shape, making them easy to eat and fun for kids.
In this Bali-inspired version, we use locally available ground beef, tropical herbs, and a hint of sweet chili sauce for a Balinese touch.
These cups are topped with melted cheddar cheese and served in bite-sized portions, perfect for little hands.
Bali-Style Inspiration
To give this recipe a Balinese flair, we use:
Local Ground Beef: Available in Bali’s markets and supermarkets.
Cheddar Cheese: Adds a creamy, melty texture.
Tropical Herbs: Cilantro and sweet chili sauce for a Balinese twist.
Pandan-Flavored Buns: For a hint of local flavor (optional).
Coconut Oil: A healthy frying option, widely used in Bali.
Ingredients for 4 Kids
Ground Beef: 250g (local lean beef)
Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup (shredded)
Onion: 1 small (finely chopped)
Garlic: 2 cloves (minced)
Sweet Chili Sauce: 2 tablespoons
Egg: 1 large (for binding)
Tortilla Wraps or Bread Rolls: 4 (cut into circles to fit muffin cups)
Coconut Oil: 2 tablespoons (for cooking)
Salt and Pepper: To taste
Fresh Cilantro: For garnish (optional)
Steps to Prepare
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture
Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of coconut oil in a pan over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic.
Sauté them gently until they turn fragrant and translucent, which usually takes about 2–3 minutes. Next, add the ground beef to the pan.
Stir occasionally to break it into small pieces and ensure even cooking. Sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste, along with 2 tablespoons of sweet chili sauce to give the mixture its signature Balinese twist.
Continue cooking until the beef is browned and fully cooked, which should take about 5–7 minutes. Remove the pan from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
Step 2: Assemble the Cups
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). While waiting for the oven to heat, grease each cup of a muffin tin lightly with coconut oil.
This step ensures that the cups don’t stick to the tin and can be easily removed after baking. If using tortilla wraps or bread rolls for the base, cut them into circles large enough to line each muffin cup.
Gently press the circles into the tin, making sure they form a cup shape to hold the filling.
Step 3: Fill the Cups
Spoon the cooked beef mixture evenly into each prepared muffin cup. Fill each cup generously but avoid overfilling, as this may cause spillage during baking.
Once the beef mixture is in place, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of each cup.
The cheese will melt and create a gooey, flavorful topping that kids will love.
Step 4: Bake the Cheeseburger Cups
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes. Keep an eye on the cups as they bake, looking for the cheese to melt and become bubbly while the edges of the tortilla or bread base turn golden and crispy.
Once baked to perfection, remove the tin from the oven and let the cheeseburger cups cool for about 5 minutes.
This cooling period helps the cups hold their shape when removed from the tin.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Carefully remove the cheeseburger cups from the muffin tin using a fork or spatula. Arrange them on a serving plate and garnish each cup with a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro for added flavor and color.
Serve the cheeseburger cups warm, alongside a small bowl of sweet chili sauce for dipping.
These bite-sized treats are perfect for kids and make a fun, easy-to-eat snack or meal.
Tips for Perfect Cheeseburger Cups
Use Fresh Beef: Local ground beef provides the best flavor.
Add Veggies: Include finely chopped carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrients.
Cheese Variety: Try mozzarella or gouda for different flavor options.
Make Ahead: Prepare the beef mixture in advance and assemble just before baking.
Health Benefits for Kids
These cheeseburger cups are packed with nutrients:
Protein: Ground beef supports growth and muscle development.
Calcium: Cheddar cheese provides calcium for strong bones.
Vitamins: Onions and garlic boost immunity and overall health.
Fun Ways to Involve Kids in Cooking
Mixing the Beef: Let kids mix the beef and seasonings.
Assembling the Cups: Kids can press the tortillas into the muffin tin.
Cheese Sprinkling: They’ll love adding the cheese on top!
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: 280
Protein: 18g
Fat: 15g (8g saturated)
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 320mg
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken instead of beef?
A: Yes, ground chicken works great as a leaner option.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Q: Can these be made gluten-free?
A: Yes, use gluten-free wraps or bread for the base.
Q: Can I freeze cheeseburger cups?
A: Absolutely! Freeze them for up to 1 month and reheat when needed.