If you’re looking to shake up your taco night with something new and exciting, this Impossible Taco Pie is the perfect dish to try. Combining all the classic taco flavors into a savory, easy-to-make pie, this recipe is ideal for a family dinner or a fun gathering. The best part? It’s simple to prepare and packed with flavor, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights.
Why You’ll Love This Impossible Taco Pie
- Flavor-Packed: This pie is loaded with seasoned ground beef, diced green chiles, and salsa, all topped with melty cheddar cheese for a comforting, delicious meal.
- Quick & Easy: With minimal prep and straightforward instructions, you can have this dish on the table in under an hour.
- Versatile: Customize it with your favorite taco toppings, like sour cream, guacamole, or even a squeeze of lime, to make it your own.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 1/2 lbs Lean Ground Beef: The base of the pie, providing a hearty, protein-rich filling.
- 1 Packet Taco Seasoning: For that classic taco flavor, you can use store-bought or homemade seasoning.
- 1 (4.5 oz) Can Diced Green Chiles: Adds a mild heat and tang to the dish.
- 1/2 Cup Salsa: Choose your favorite salsa to add moisture and extra flavor.
- 1 Cup Cheddar Cheese, Grated: Melts beautifully over the beef, adding a rich, cheesy layer.
- 1/2 Cup Bisquick Mix: This helps form the pie’s crust-like topping.
- 1 Cup Milk: Combines with the Bisquick to create a batter that holds everything together.
- 3 Large Eggs: Helps the pie set, creating a firm, sliceable dish.
- Kosher Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper, to Taste: Season the pie to your preference.
- Fresh Cilantro, Finely Chopped (for Garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant finish to the dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9-inch pie plate with nonstick spray to ensure easy removal after baking.
2. Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the lean ground beef until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef, stirring to coat it evenly. Add the diced green chiles and salsa, and stir to combine. Let the mixture cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Assemble the Pie: Transfer the beef mixture into the prepared pie plate, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese over the top of the beef, ensuring an even layer of cheesy goodness.
4. Prepare the Batter: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the Bisquick mix, milk, and eggs until the batter is smooth and well combined. Carefully pour the batter over the beef and cheese in the pie plate, allowing it to seep into all the nooks and crannies.
5. Bake: Place the pie plate in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the pie is set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few crumbs.
6. Serve: Once the pie is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of color and flavor. Slice and serve the pie with your favorite taco toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or extra salsa.
Nutritional Information (Approximate, Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Protein: 24g
- Fat: 20g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
Tips for Success
- Customize the Heat: If you like your tacos spicy, use a spicier salsa or add a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture before baking.
- Cheese Choices: Feel free to mix in other types of cheese like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the beef mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble and bake the pie.
Serving Suggestions
This Impossible Taco Pie is a meal in itself, but here are a few ideas to round out your dinner:
- Side Salad: Serve with a crisp green salad topped with avocado and a lime vinaigrette.
- Mexican Rice: Pair with Mexican-style rice for a more traditional taco dinner.
- Refried Beans: A side of refried beans adds extra protein and complements the taco flavors perfectly.
Conclusion
The Impossible Taco Pie is a delicious, family-friendly dish that brings a fun twist to traditional tacos. With its savory beef filling, cheesy topping, and easy prep, it’s bound to become a regular in your meal rotation. Perfect for Taco Tuesday or any night you’re craving something comforting and full of flavor, this pie is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy a new favorite in your dinner lineup!