Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Taco Pie takes all the best elements of tacos and turns them into a hearty, layered casserole. The savory ground beef is spiced with chili powder, cumin, and paprika, while refried beans add a creamy texture that perfectly complements the crispy tortillas. The melty cheese and fresh toppings like salsa, diced tomatoes, and cilantro make each bite a burst of flavor. It’s an easy, comforting, and customizable dish that can be served for dinner, as a party dish, or even for meal prep!
Ingredients
Taco Pie:
- 1/2 pound ground chuck
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1/2 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 (16 ounce) can of refried beans
- 2 (10 inch) flour tortillas
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 1/2 cup freshly diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 to 2 tablespoons finely diced jalapeño peppers
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
To Serve:
- Sour cream
- Simple guacamole
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground chuck over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat and return the beef to the skillet.
- Add Seasonings: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the beef, and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the spices are fragrant.
- Prepare the Pie Layers: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish or a similar-sized casserole dish. Place one of the flour tortillas at the bottom of the dish, pressing down to cover the base.
- Layer the Ingredients: Spread half of the refried beans evenly over the tortilla. Then, layer the cooked beef mixture on top of the beans, followed by half of the salsa. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of shredded cheese over the salsa. Place the second tortilla on top of the cheese, pressing it down gently.
- Add Final Layers: Spread the remaining refried beans over the second tortilla, then layer the remaining beef mixture and salsa on top. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top tortilla is golden and slightly crispy.
- Add Fresh Toppings: Once the pie is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Top with diced tomatoes, chopped green onions, diced jalapeños, and fresh cilantro.
- Serve: Serve the Taco Pie with a side of sour cream and simple guacamole for extra flavor and creaminess.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields about 4 servings, depending on portion size. The total preparation and cooking time is around 35-40 minutes, making it a quick and easy meal.
Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Use a meat substitute like black beans or sautéed vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, corn) in place of the ground beef.
- Spicy Kick: Add more jalapeños or use a spicier salsa to give the pie an extra kick.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortillas to make this dish gluten-free.
- Cheese Swap: You can use different types of cheese, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorites, for a twist on the flavor.
Storage/reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef. Just make sure to season it well so it retains great flavor.
Can I make this Taco Pie in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the Taco Pie ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, just preheat the oven and cook as directed.
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
Yes, you can use corn tortillas, but they may not be as soft and pliable as flour tortillas. If you use corn tortillas, be sure to warm them slightly before using to prevent them from breaking.
How do I prevent the tortillas from getting soggy?
Warming the tortillas before using them will help prevent sogginess. Additionally, be sure to use a light layer of refried beans and salsa to avoid over-saturating the tortillas.
Can I freeze the Taco Pie?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled, unbaked Taco Pie for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Can I make this Taco Pie spicier?
Definitely! You can increase the amount of chili powder, add more jalapeños, or use spicy salsa to make it hotter.
What can I serve with Taco Pie?
Taco Pie pairs well with Mexican sides like rice, beans, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with additional toppings like guacamole, salsa, or a side of chips.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! You can use any cheese you like, such as cheddar, pepper jack, or Monterey Jack. A Mexican cheese blend works perfectly for this dish.
Can I add other fillings to the Taco Pie?
Feel free to add other ingredients like black beans, corn, or olives for added texture and flavor.
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Use a dairy-free cheese alternative and omit the sour cream and guacamole, or use a dairy-free sour cream alternative.
Conclusion
Easy Taco Pie is a delicious, comforting, and customizable dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a busy weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or a casual party, this meal will always be a hit. With savory ground beef, refried beans, and melty cheese, topped with fresh tomatoes and zesty jalapeños, it’s a full-flavored, hearty dish that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table!
Print
Easy Taco Pie
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Easy Taco Pie is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines seasoned ground beef, refried beans, cheese, and fresh toppings in a simple, layered casserole. This Tex-Mex favorite is perfect for busy weeknights and can be customized with your favorite toppings. With its crispy tortillas, melty cheese, and zesty salsa, this Taco Pie will quickly become a family favorite!
Ingredients
Taco Pie
1/2 pound ground chuck
1/2 cup diced onion
1/2 tablespoon minced garlic
1/2 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 to 1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 (16-ounce) can of refried beans
2 (10-inch) flour tortillas
1/2 cup salsa
1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
1/2 cup freshly diced tomatoes
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1 to 2 tablespoons finely diced jalapeño peppers
Chopped cilantro for garnish
To Serve
Sour cream
Simple guacamole
Instructions
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Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook ground chuck over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat and return beef to the skillet.
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Add Seasonings: Stir in diced onion, garlic, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the spices are fragrant.
-
Prepare the Pie Layers: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish. Warm tortillas slightly to make them pliable. Place one tortilla at the bottom of the dish, pressing down to cover the base.
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Layer the Ingredients: Spread half of the refried beans over the tortilla. Add half of the beef mixture, followed by salsa and 1/2 cup cheese. Place the second tortilla on top.
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Add Final Layers: Spread the remaining refried beans, beef mixture, and salsa over the second tortilla. Top with remaining cheese.
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Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top tortilla is golden.
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Add Fresh Toppings: Top with diced tomatoes, green onions, jalapeños, and cilantro.
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Serve: Serve with sour cream and guacamole for added flavor.
Notes
Vegetarian Version: Use black beans or sautéed vegetables in place of the ground beef.
Spicy Kick: Add more jalapeños or use spicy salsa to heat things up.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortillas to make this dish gluten-free.
Cheese Swap: Try cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for different flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
