Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something flavorful, fun, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Taco Pie with Tortillas recipe is a game-changer, offering a delightful twist on classic tacos. It's a fantastic option for a quick weeknight dinner, a casual get-together with friends, or even a satisfying lunch. Get ready to experience a delicious explosion of textures and tastes in every bite! This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes, healthy meals, and quick dinner ideas – all without sacrificing flavor. Homemade cooking has never been simpler!
Ingredients:
This recipe makes a generous 6-8 servings.
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For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey, chicken, or vegetarian crumbles for variations)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (10 ounce) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained
- 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
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For the Crust & Topping:
- 6-8 large flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend also work well)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This is a crucial step for easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
Prepare the filling: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. Drain off any excess grease. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, black beans, Rotel, and corn. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Finally, stir in the cilantro.
Assemble the pie: Layer 3-4 tortillas on the bottom of the prepared baking dish, slightly overlapping to cover the base. Spread the taco filling evenly over the tortillas. Sprinkle half of the cheese over the filling. Top with the remaining tortillas, again slightly overlapping. Pour any remaining filling over the top layer of tortillas. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
Bake & Serve: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the tortillas are lightly golden. Let the pie cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. A dollop of sour cream adds a lovely finishing touch!
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the filling for extra heat.
- Veggie Boost: Add chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the filling for extra vegetables and nutrients. This is a great way to incorporate more healthy meals into your diet.
- Cheese Please: Experiment with different types of cheese – pepper jack, queso fresco, or a blend of your favorites.
- Make it ahead: Prepare the filling ahead of time and assemble the pie just before baking. This is perfect for those busy weeknights!
- Leftovers: Store leftover Taco Pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the ingredients used. The nutritional information provided is an estimate based on using lean ground beef and standard ingredient portions. For precise values, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
This Taco Pie with Tortillas recipe offers a delicious and easy way to enjoy a comforting and flavorful meal. It's perfect for busy weeknights and offers a fantastic opportunity for customization to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy!