Pillsbury Crescent Roll Taco Bake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients, this dish comes together in under an hour, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner.
• Family-Friendly: The combination of taco-seasoned beef and melted cheese wrapped in a buttery crescent roll crust is sure to please both kids and adults.
• Versatile: Customize with your favorite taco toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and sour cream for added freshness and flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 cans (8 oz each) Pillsbury™ Original Crescent Rolls
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 packet (1 oz) Old El Paso™ Original Taco Seasoning Mix
• ¾ cup Old El Paso™ Thick ‘n Chunky Salsa
• 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese (4 oz)
• Shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and sour cream for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Crescent Roll Crust:
   • Unroll the crescent rolls and arrange them in a 9-inch pie pan or a 10-inch pie plate, pressing the dough over the bottom and up the sides to form a crust.
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
   • In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
   • Stir in the taco seasoning mix and salsa, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until well combined and heated through.
4. Assemble the Bake:
   • Spoon the seasoned beef mixture evenly over the prepared crescent roll crust.
   • Sprinkle the shredded Cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
5. Bake:
   • Place the assembled dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crescent roll crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
6. Garnish and Serve:
   • Remove from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes.
   • Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a dollop of sour cream if desired.
   • Slice and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: Serves 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

1. Vegetarian Option:
   • Replace the ground beef with black beans or a mix of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and corn. Season with taco seasoning for a flavorful meat-free alternative.
2. Chicken Taco Bake:
   • Use shredded cooked chicken instead of ground beef. Season the chicken with taco seasoning or a blend of chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder for a zesty twist.
3. Cheesy Upgrade:
   • Mix different cheeses such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or Mexican cheese blend with the Cheddar for a gooey, cheesy taco bake.
4. Spicy Kick:
   • Add chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the taco meat for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
5. Tex-Mex Twist:
   • Incorporate ingredients like sliced olives, green chilies, or corn kernels into the beef mixture for added texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration:
  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing:
  • Wrap individual slices or the entire bake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing in a freezer-safe container. Frozen taco bake can last for up to 2 months.
• Reheating:
  • To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through. For best results, reheat in the oven to maintain the crispiness of the crescent roll crust.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute Cheddar with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend for varied flavors.

Is it necessary to drain the ground beef?

Yes, draining the excess fat helps prevent the dish from becoming greasy and ensures a better texture.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can assemble the taco bake up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake as directed when ready to serve.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add chopped jalapeños, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes, or use a spicier salsa to increase the heat.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a suitable substitute for ground beef and will work well in this recipe.

What can I serve with this taco bake?

Serve with a side of Spanish rice, refried beans, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Can I freeze the taco bake?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled taco bake before baking. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

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