Taco Pie Recipe

If you love the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine and crave something comforting yet fun, this Taco Pie Recipe is going to become your new favorite weeknight dinner. It combines all the classic taco ingredients layered perfectly in a flaky flour tortilla crust, baked until bubbly and topped with fresh, zesty garnishes. It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings together savory, cheesy, and fresh elements in every bite, making it perfect for family meals, casual gatherings, or whenever you want to add some fiesta flair to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but essential for building the delicious layers of flavor and texture that make this Taco Pie Recipe shine. Each one plays a key role, from the seasoned beef to the creamy toppings that bring everything together.

• 1 pound ground beef: The hearty base that delivers rich, savory flavor and satisfying protein.
• 1 small onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when cooked with the beef, creating a flavorful foundation.
• 1 packet taco seasoning mix: A vital blend of spices that gives the beef its signature zesty, warm taste.
• ¾ cup water: Helps simmer the seasoned beef to juicy perfection without drying out the mixture.
• 1 (8-inch) flour tortilla: Acts as the flaky, comforting crust that holds all the layers together.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully to create cheesy, gooey goodness on top of the beef.
• ½ cup sour cream (for serving): Provides a cool, creamy contrast that brightens the dish when added at the end.
• ½ cup salsa: Adds tang and a touch of spice, keeping every bite lively and fresh.
• ½ cup refried beans: A creamy layer that adds texture and balances the bold flavors.
• ½ cup diced tomatoes: Fresh and juicy bits to add brightness and color.
• ¼ cup sliced black olives: A slightly salty, earthy accent that complements the other toppings.
• ¼ cup chopped green onions: Adds crisp, mild onion flavor and vibrant green color.
• ¼ teaspoon salt (to taste): Enhances all the flavors and brings balance.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper (for seasoning): Adds just the right amount of subtle heat and complexity.

How to Make Taco Pie Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the pie will bake evenly and the cheese will melt to perfection, creating that irresistible bubbly top layer.

Step 2: Cook the Beef and Onion

Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef together with the chopped onion until the beef turns brown and the onions become translucent and fragrant. Drain any excess fat to keep the pie hearty but not greasy.

Step 3: Add Seasoning and Simmer

Sprinkle the taco seasoning mix over the cooked beef and onion, then pour in ¾ cup water. Stir well and let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes, allowing the savory flavors to meld and the mixture to thicken just right.

Step 4: Prepare the Pie Dish and Base

Grease a 9-inch pie dish to prevent sticking, then lay the flour tortilla flat on the bottom. This tortilla acts as the wonderfully flaky crust that holds all the delicious layers together.

Step 5: Layer with Refried Beans

Spoon the refried beans evenly over the tortilla in the pie dish. This creamy layer adds both texture and richness, giving the pie a smooth base that contrasts perfectly with the seasoned beef.

Step 6: Add the Beef Mixture, Salsa, and Cheese

Spoon the thickened beef mixture over the beans, then add a layer of salsa. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously on top to ensure a beautifully melted, cheesy finish after baking.

Step 7: Bake Until Bubbly

Place the pie dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. You want the cheese melted, bubbly, and slightly golden around the edges—that’s your cue that it’s ready!

Step 8: Cool and Top

Remove the taco pie from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes to set. Then, top it with dollops of cooling sour cream, fresh diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, and chopped green onions for a burst of freshness and color.

Step 9: Slice and Serve

Cut the taco pie into slices and serve it warm. The combination of textures and flavors will have everyone at the table asking for seconds!

How to Serve Taco Pie Recipe

Garnishes

The toppings really make this Taco Pie Recipe pop! Sour cream brings a silky tang that balances the spices, while fresh diced tomatoes add juicy brightness. Black olives lend a subtle saltiness, and green onions provide a crisp, mild bite and vibrant color. You can also add a sprinkle of cilantro or a squeeze of lime for an extra flavor lift.

Side Dishes

This taco pie pairs beautifully with simple sides like a fresh green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette or classic Mexican street corn. For a heartier meal, serve with Mexican rice or refried beans to keep the festive theme going strong.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual slices on brightly colored plates with a small bowl of guacamole or a drizzle of hot sauce on the side. For a fun twist, assemble miniature taco pies in muffin tins for a bite-sized party snack or potluck hit!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover taco pie keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled completely before sealing to maintain firmness and freshness.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully, making it perfect to prepare in advance. Wrap the cooled taco pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or microwave on medium power until warmed through. Reheating in the oven helps restore the crispy edges and melty cheese better than the microwave.

FAQs

Can I substitute ground beef with something else?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute work well in this Taco Pie Recipe. Just adjust cooking times if necessary to ensure the protein is fully cooked and flavorful.

Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Skip the meat and use extra refried beans or a mixture of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, corn, and zucchini with taco seasoning. The layers and cheese will still make it satisfyingly delicious.

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?

While flour tortillas create the best sturdy crust for this pie, you can use corn tortillas for a gluten-free option, but they may be more fragile and require careful layering to prevent breaking.

What kind of cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar is classic for this Taco Pie Recipe because it melts well and offers bold flavor. However, you can also try Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a Mexican blend for variety.

How spicy is this recipe?

The spice level depends on the taco seasoning and salsa you choose. To adjust heat, select a mild, medium, or hot seasoning mix, and opt for a salsa that suits your preferred spice level.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Taco Pie Recipe a try because it’s such a joyful way to enjoy all your favorite taco ingredients in one delicious, easy-to-make dish. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself, this pie is comfort food with a fun twist that’s sure to become a go-to in your kitchen. Happy cooking and even happier eating!

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