It could be the Tex-Mex cousin of Québec’s Tourtière… But it has qualities all its own that make it stand alone. And, like conventional tacos, you can top as you like it. The suggested sour cream and chips topping is just a bare-bones-basic presentation!
Top it as you like it. Real taco fans will want to add lettuce and
tomatoes (per photo above). And who knows what else?
You’re going to love the quirkiness of this ‘pie’ as much as you love its simplicity and brilloso flavour! With only 6 ingredients (most of which you already have on hand) and a few prep steps, you’ll be able to whip it up on the spur of the moment when you want something ‘different’…
What you need
“This taco pie is a quick, easy meal that is very filling. Some people will also top it with regular taco toppings such as lettuce, tomatoes, black olives, etc.,” says recipe contributor Stephanie. “It’s also great as leftovers for lunches. Serve with taco sauce.”
Ingredients:
- 1 (8 ounce) package refrigerated crescent rolls (Pillsbury or equivalent)
- 1 lb / 455 g ground beef
- 1 (1 ounce) package taco seasoning mix (Old El Paso or equivalent)
- 1 (16 ounce) container sour cream (full-fat recommended, but ‘lite’ is okay, too)
- 8 ounces shredded Mexican-style cheese blend
- 1 (14 oz / 396 g) bag tortilla chips, coarsely crushed or to taste
Optional:
- Whatever else you want to load it with!
What you do
The crust of this ‘pie’ couldn’t be easier… It’s a can of Pillsbury (or equivalent) crescent roll dough cut to fit your favourite casserole dish. Blind bake in a pre-heated 350 F oven it per package instructions, and set it aside while you get the rest of the ingredients ready.
While the crust is baking, grab the 1 lb / 455 g of ground beef you might have had to go out to the store for, and scramble it off. Pour off any excess fat. Stir in a packet of Taco seasoning.
Spread the ground beef in an even layer over the crust. Add a layer of sour cream. And top that with the grated cheese. Top the whole thing with coarsely crushed Tortilla chips. You can use original (plain), spicy, or even ‘diablo’ as suits your taste.
Bake in that pre-heated oven for 10 minutes or so 9until the cheese is melted) and get ready to dig in. I recommend you let the ‘pie’ rest a few minutes (at least 5) so the ingredients can set up and not run all over the place when you cut squares to serve.
My take
The minimal cooking required and the quick bake time make this a great summertime ‘lazy night’ supper that won’t overheat the kitchen. And what’s even better, you can instantly customize this casserole/pie to make it your own! Or, lay out a spread of add-on ingredients on the dining/picnic table so folks can dress their servings to suit themselves.
Yes… I know this isn’t the healthiest recipe I’ve ever showcased in this space – by far. But its many other charms make it one of my favourites!
~ Maggie J.