Taco Pie

Alright, friends, if you’re looking for a dish that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make, Taco Pie is here to save the day! Picture this: a buttery, flaky crust filled with seasoned beef, zesty taco flavors, gooey melted cheese, and all your favorite taco toppings, layered in a way that’s as comforting as it is delicious. It’s like having all the best parts of tacos, but in pie form. Trust me, you’re going to love this one! Whether you’re serving it for Taco Tuesday, a family dinner, or a casual gathering with friends, this Taco Pie is sure to become a staple. It’s cheesy, hearty, and packed with flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love Taco Pie

• Taco Tuesday, Elevated: All your favorite taco ingredients in one hearty pie. You get the crunch of tacos but without the mess.
• Flavor-packed: Ground beef seasoned with all the taco essentials (think: cumin, chili powder, garlic) and topped with melty cheese—what’s not to love?
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the seasonings or toppings to suit your taste. Want it spicier? Add more chili flakes. Prefer it milder? Skip the heat!
• Quick and Easy: The prep is simple and the whole pie comes together in no time. A perfect weeknight dinner or something to impress guests with minimal effort.
• Kid-friendly: This dish is a hit with both kids and adults. Serve it with a side of salsa or sour cream, and everyone will be happy!

Ingredients

For the Taco Pie:

• Ground Beef: The base of your taco pie—get a good quality lean ground beef for the best flavor.
• Taco Seasoning: This is where all the taco magic happens—seasoned with cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and other spices to create that perfect taco flavor.
• Pie Crust: You can go with store-bought for convenience or make your own from scratch for a more personalized touch.
• Shredded Cheese: A blend of cheddar and mozzarella works wonders, giving you that gooey, melty cheese pull.
• Eggs: These help bind everything together and give the pie a nice texture when baked.
• Sour Cream: For a little tanginess that complements the richness of the beef.
• Optional Toppings: Fresh tomatoes, green onions, black olives, lettuce, and salsa are perfect for adding on top once the pie is baked.

(Note: Full ingredient measurements are provided in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Once the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess fat and stir in the taco seasoning and a bit of water (according to the seasoning packet instructions). Let it simmer for a few minutes until well combined and flavorful.

Step 2: Assemble the Pie

While the beef is simmering, roll out your pie crust and fit it into a pie dish, trimming any excess dough around the edges. If you’re using store-bought crust, just press it into the dish and make sure it’s evenly spread. Next, layer the seasoned beef mixture into the pie crust, spreading it out evenly.

Step 3: Add the Cheese

Now, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese over the beef. I recommend using a mix of cheddar and mozzarella, but you can get creative with your cheese choice!

Step 4: Add the Egg Mixture

In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and a bit of sour cream. Pour this mixture evenly over the beef and cheese in the pie. The eggs will help set the pie and give it that delicious, firm texture when baked.

Step 5: Bake the Pie

Place the assembled pie in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the center is set. You can test this by gently shaking the pie to see if the filling is firm.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. Top with your favorite taco toppings like tomatoes, green onions, black olives, lettuce, and a dollop of sour cream. Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 320
Total Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 105mg
Sodium: 600mg
Total Carbohydrate: 22g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 2g
Protein: 15g
Vitamin A: 10%
Vitamin C: 2%
Calcium: 15%
Iron: 10%

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve Taco Pie

• With a Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a great way to balance out the richness of the taco pie.
• With Salsa and Sour Cream: Serve with a side of fresh salsa and a dollop of sour cream for that extra burst of flavor.
• Taco Toppings: Get creative with toppings! Fresh cilantro, diced avocado, and jalapeños bring in extra freshness and heat.
• Tortilla Chips: Serve with crunchy tortilla chips on the side for some extra texture.

Additional Tips

• Make It Spicy: Add some chopped jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the beef mixture for extra heat.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap the ground beef for black beans or plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version of Taco Pie.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free pie crust to make this dish gluten-free.
• Toppings Galore: The best part about Taco Pie is all the creative toppings you can add! Try adding some diced red onion, fresh cilantro, or even some crumbled tortilla chips for a little crunch.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different type of meat?
A1: Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even pork would work well in this recipe. Just adjust the seasoning to suit the meat you choose.

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
A2: Yes! You can assemble the pie a day in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready, bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes to account for the cold filling.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Q4: Can I freeze Taco Pie?
A4: Yes! This pie freezes beautifully. After baking, let it cool, then wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven when you’re ready to eat.

Q5: Can I use a store-bought pie crust?
A5: Definitely! A store-bought pie crust saves time and works just as well. If you prefer a homemade crust, that’s totally an option too!

Q6: Can I add more veggies to the filling?
A6: Absolutely! Diced bell peppers, onions, or even corn would make a delicious addition to the beef mixture.

Q7: How can I make Taco Pie spicier?
A7: Add more chili powder, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture for some extra kick.

Q8: Can I use a different cheese?
A8: Yes! Feel free to swap the cheese for your favorites—Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a sharp cheddar would work wonderfully.

Q9: How can I make Taco Pie more “Mexican”?
A9: Try adding ingredients like refried beans, Mexican crema, or sliced avocados for an authentic Mexican twist.

Q10: How do I make the crust extra crispy?
A10: Brush the pie crust with a little butter before baking, or even bake it for a few minutes before adding the filling to help it crisp up nicely.

Conclusion

This Taco Pie is the perfect way to elevate your taco game. It’s simple to make, filled with all your favorite taco flavors, and sure to be a hit at the dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just your family, this comforting dish will quickly become a go-to recipe. So grab that pie crust, season that beef, and get ready to enjoy a slice of taco heaven!

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