Description
Taco Pie
Ingredients
1 lb (450 g) ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning
1 cup salsa
1 unbaked pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
½ cup sour cream
1 medium tomato, diced (optional for garnish)
2 green onions, sliced (optional for garnish)
Directions
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the Beef:
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
Stir in the taco seasoning and salsa. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Prepare the Crust:
Roll out the pie crust into a pie dish. Trim the edges if needed.
Assemble the Pie:
Spread half of the shredded cheeses on the bottom of the pie crust.
Add the seasoned beef mixture on top.
Spread sour cream over the beef layer.
Top with the remaining shredded cheeses.
Bake:
Place the pie in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes.
Garnish with diced tomatoes and green onions if desired. Slice and serve warm.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 350 kcal per serving
#TacoTuesday #ComfortFood #EasyDinner #CheesyGoodness #PieLovers
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect Taco Pie every time. First, ensure all ingredients are prepped: shred the cheeses, dice the tomato, and slice the green onions. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready. In a large skillet, thoroughly brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it into crumbles. Once no pink remains, drain the excess fat completely. This step is crucial to prevent a greasy filling. Add the taco seasoning and salsa to the beef, stirring to combine. Let this mixture simmer for a full 5 minutes to thicken slightly and allow the flavors to meld. While it simmers, press your unbaked pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish, crimping the edges. Begin assembly by sprinkling half of the combined cheeses directly onto the crust. This creates a protective layer that helps prevent a soggy bottom. Spoon the warm beef mixture over the cheese, then carefully spread the sour cream in an even layer. Finally, top with the remaining cheese. Bake on the center rack for 25-30 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
While delicious on its own, Taco Pie pairs wonderfully with classic Tex-Mex sides. Serve each slice with a dollop of guacamole, extra salsa, or a drizzle of crema. A simple side salad with lime-cilantro dressing or a hearty portion of Mexican rice and refried beans completes the meal. For a fun, family-style presentation, set out small bowls of additional toppings like sliced jalapeños, black olives, shredded lettuce, or corn salsa for everyone to customize their slice.
How-to Summary
In short: Brown and season beef, layer ingredients (cheese, beef, sour cream, more cheese) in a pie crust, and bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes. Let cool briefly, garnish, and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different protein? Absolutely. Ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat alternative work well. Just ensure you cook and drain it thoroughly before adding the seasoning.
How can I prevent a soggy pie crust? The key is the initial cheese layer. It acts as a barrier between the hot, moist filling and the crust. Also, avoid overfilling with salsa; drain any excess liquid from it if it’s very runny.
Can I make Taco Pie ahead of time? Yes, for best results, assemble the pie but do not bake it. Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. You may need to add 5-10 minutes to the baking time since it will be cold.
What are the best leftovers storage tips? Cool leftovers completely, then cover the pie dish or transfer slices to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven to maintain texture.
Is there a way to make this lower-carb? For a crustless version, simply grease your pie dish and start the layering process directly in the dish. The result will be a hearty, cheesy taco bake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls: 1) Not draining the fat from the cooked beef, leading to a greasy pie. 2) Using a salsa with high water content, which can make the filling watery—opt for a thick, chunky style. 3) Skipping the initial layer of cheese on the crust, which often results in a soggy bottom. 4) Overbaking, which can cause the cheese to separate and become oily. 5) Cutting the pie immediately after baking; letting it rest for 5 minutes allows the layers to set for cleaner slices.
Conclusion
Taco Pie is the ultimate fusion of classic taco flavors and comforting pie form, offering a quick, customizable, and crowd-pleasing dinner solution. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common errors, you can achieve a perfectly golden, cheesy, and flavorful dish that’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. It’s a versatile recipe that invites creativity with toppings and sides, making every #TacoTuesday a delicious celebration.