Craving tacos but short on time? This Taco Pie with Crescent Rolls is the perfect solution! It's a delicious, easy-to-make recipe that brings all the vibrant flavors of tacos into one comforting, family-friendly pie. Forget complicated layering and messy taco shells; this recipe delivers a satisfying and healthy meal in under an hour, making it an ideal addition to your quick dinner ideas repertoire. Get ready to experience a fun twist on classic tacos that’s sure to become a new favorite in your homemade cooking rotation!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet (10 oz) frozen taco seasoning
- 1 cup water
- 1 (16 ounce) can refried beans
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 (8 ounce) package crescent rolls
- 1 cup taco sauce (your favorite brand)
- ½ cup chopped onion
- ½ cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- ½ cup diced tomatoes
- Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, jalapeños
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This simple prep step ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
Brown the Beef and Season:
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In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease. This step builds the flavor base of your delicious taco pie.
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Stir in the taco seasoning and water. Bring to a simmer, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced and the beef is well seasoned.
Assemble the Pie:
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Spread half of the refried beans evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish. This creates a flavorful and hearty base for the pie.
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Top the beans with the seasoned ground beef mixture. Distribute evenly for consistent flavor in every bite.
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Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the beef. The cheese adds a delicious melt and enhances the overall flavor profile.
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Unroll the crescent roll dough and arrange the triangles over the cheese layer, slightly overlapping the edges to create a complete crust. This simple step makes the pie visually appealing and adds a delightful textural element.
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Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crescent rolls are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Baking until golden ensures a perfectly cooked crust and a delightful texture.
Finishing Touches:
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Once the pie is out of the oven, let it rest for 5-10 minutes before adding the remaining refried beans, the rest of the cheddar cheese, and the taco sauce.
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Top with lettuce, tomatoes, and your favorite taco toppings, such as sour cream, guacamole, or jalapeños. Customizing toppings allows everyone to enjoy their perfect taco pie.
Cooking Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the beef mixture for an extra kick.
- Vegetarian option: Substitute the ground beef with 1 (15 ounce) can of vegetarian chili or lentils for a meatless version.
- Make it cheesy: Use a blend of cheeses, such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack, for a more complex flavor.
- Add vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like corn, mushrooms, or zucchini into the beef mixture for added nutrients.
- Prep ahead: Prepare the beef mixture and assemble the pie ahead of time; just bake it when ready to serve.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This Taco Pie with Crescent Rolls recipe offers a delicious and convenient way to enjoy the flavors of tacos. It's a perfect example of easy recipes that are both healthy meals and quick dinner ideas for busy weeknights. Whether you're a beginner cook or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy!