Taco Pie

When it’s Taco Tuesday and you’re tired of the same taco dinner kits, give this easy taco pie a try. It’s packed with flavor, fun to put together, and ready in only 40 minutes.

Add your favorite toppings, serve it with some tasty Mexican-inspired sides, and watch it disappear from the table in no time.

This taco pie recipe packs in all the best taco flavors with seasoned ground beef, warm spices, and lots of creamy cheese, all baked together in one hearty casserole.

It is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or when you are feeding a crowd at a casual gathering. Everyone will love it!

Recipe Video

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe works because everyone loves tacos, and a taco pie is like a taco wrapped in another taco wrapped in another taco! But also it works because of how easily customizable it is, and how easily it can be paired with a variety of dishes to make a delicious taco pie meal.

The layers of seasoned meat, cheese, and tortillas are adaptable, letting you add favorite fillings like beans, corn, or bell peppers. Finish it off with the toppings of your choice, opting for taco pie ingredients like lettuce, tomatoes, or guacamole.

Furthermore, this recipe works because taco pie pairs beautifully with sides like Mexican rice, black beans, or a fresh salad, making it simple to build a complete, satisfying meal around it.

Ingredients

Sauce:

This recipe for taco pie includes the making of a simple taco pie sauce that can be easily customized to suit your taste or dietary preferences. You can add additional seasonings like crushed red pepper flakes, paprika, or coriander for more warmth. Swap the ground beef for leaner meat like ground turkey, chicken, or pork.

Eliminate the meat altogether and add some black beans or tofu. Want to add some color and nutritional value to the taco pie sauce? Saute diced bell peppers or carrots with your protein of choice. You can even simplify the process and make a quick taco pie sauce by using a can or jar of high-quality pasta sauce and a package of taco seasoning to make the process even more convenient.

Tortillas:

Flour tortillas are used in this quick taco pie recipe because they will give you a pliable crust. Corn tortillas also work well and are a naturally gluten-free alternative.

Cheese:

Cheddar cheese is an essential addition, adding to the creamy rich texture of your taco pie. However, you can use a blend of your favorite melty cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper Jack, Cotija, Colby, Queso Fresco, or mozzarella, which can offer a unique twist.

Toppings:

We suggest finishing off your taco pie with fresh diced tomatoes, black olives, jalapenos, and sour cream, but you can use any of your favorite taco toppings like shredded lettuce, avocado, guacamole, salsa, hot sauce, fresh cilantro, green onions, or tortilla chip crumble. 

How to Make Taco Pie

Step One: 

Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat.

Step Two: 

Add the onions and saute them until they are softened and slightly opaque, then mix in the garlic and saute until aromatic.

Step Three: 

Add the ground beef to the pan and cook until browned.

Step Four:

Add the corn, salt, oregano, pepper, and cumin to the browned meat. Stir to incorporate.

Step Five: 

Stir the tomato sauce in, bring to a simmer, remove from heat, and set aside.

Step Six: 

To build your taco pie, start by lining the bottom of a greased baking pan with tortillas. Top that with a layer of the beef mixture, followed by a sprinkling of cheese.

Step Seven: 

Repeat the previous step 2 more times and finish with a layer of tortillas topped with a final sprinkling of cheese.

Step Eight: 

Bake for 20 minutes at 350F.

Step Nine: 

Top your taco pie with some fresh diced tomatoes, olives, jalapeno, and a dollop of sour cream, serve, and enjoy!

Tip

•  After baking, let your cheesy taco pie sit for a few minutes before slicing. This helps it hold its shape and makes serving easier.
• You can add a layer of refried beans or black beans to the pie. This not only makes it heartier, but also adds an extra layer of flavor and texture.

What to Serve With Taco Pie

Your homemade taco pie can be paired with a variety of sides that complement its Mexican-inspired flavors. Serve it with a fresh avocado salad or Caesar salad for a lighter option. Mexican rice and cilantro lime rice, along with a side of black beans or refried beans, are a great way to make your taco pie meal even heartier. Top it with homemade salsa, guacamole, or pico de gallo for a delicious pop of color. Elote (Mexican street corn) or grilled vegetables also make flavorful accompaniments to complete the meal.

FAQs

How do I prevent a soggy taco pie crust?

You can pre-bake the tortilla crust for a few minutes, use thicker tortillas, or add an extra tortilla or two to line the bottom of the pan. This will help create a barrier so the filling doesn’t soak through.

Can I make taco pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the taco pie up to a day in advance. Assemble it, cover, and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve. Alternatively, you can assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months, making this easy taco pie a perfect meal prep option.

Is this a gluten-free recipe?

As it stands, this is not a naturally gluten-free taco pie recipe, but it is super simple to customize to a gluten-free diet. Simply swap the flour tortillas for corn tortillas or your favorite gluten-free alternative. As always, ensure that any packaged taco pie ingredients are identified as gluten-free to ensure your safety.

What's the best way to store leftover taco pie?

You can store leftover taco pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Alternately, you can wrap cooled taco pie leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Taco Recipes

Everyone loves tacos, but what about tacos with a twist like this easy taco pie? For more taco-licious inspiration, check out this list of taco recipes that are sure to get any fiesta going.

Taco Casserole

Taco Dip

Taco Spaghetti

Shrimp Tacos