Taco Bake
Introduction
Taco Bake is a fun and tasty dish that the whole family will love. It combines the flavors of a taco in a warm, cozy bake. This one-dish meal is easy to make and is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s great for sharing with friends or family, too!
Why Make This Recipe
Making Taco Bake is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of tacos without all the mess. You get the savory taste of ground beef, beans, and cheese all in one dish. It’s filling, quick to prepare, and you can easily customize it according to your taste. Plus, kids love it, and it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!
How to Make Taco Bake
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 can (8 oz) crescent roll dough
- Optional toppings: sour cream, green onions, jalapeños
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it is browned. Make sure to drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the taco seasoning. Follow the package instructions, usually adding water and letting it simmer.
- Add black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes to the beef mixture. Stir everything together and heat it through.
- Take the crescent roll dough and spread it into the bottom of a greased baking dish. Press it down to cover the bottom and slightly up the sides.
- Pour the beef mixture over the crescent roll dough, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the beef mixture.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Look for the crescent roll dough to turn golden brown and the cheese to melt.
- When it’s done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve with your favorite toppings like sour cream, green onions, or jalapeños.
How to Serve Taco Bake
Serve Taco Bake warm, right out of the oven. Cut it into squares for easy serving. You can add toppings like sour cream, green onions, or jalapeños on each individual piece for extra flavor.
How to Store Taco Bake
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3-4 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave for a minute or two, or heat it in an oven until warm.
Tips to Make Taco Bake
- Feel free to use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
- If you want to make it spicier, add more diced tomatoes with green chilies or jalapeños.
- You can also toss in some chopped bell peppers or corn for extra flavor and texture.
Variation
You can turn Taco Bake into a vegetarian option by swapping the ground beef for more black beans, lentils, or lentil meat alternatives. Just keep the rest of the ingredients the same.
FAQs
Can I make Taco Bake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the fridge. Just assemble and bake when you’re ready.
Can I freeze Taco Bake?
Absolutely! You can freeze Taco Bake before baking or after it has cooled. Just make sure it’s in a freezer-safe container.
What are some other toppings I can use?
Other great toppings include guacamole, diced tomatoes, lettuce, or even crushed tortilla chips for extra crunch!
Enjoy making this simple and delicious Taco Bake! It’s a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy, and you can easily modify it to fit your preferences.