Description
Pillsbury Crescent Roll Taco Bake delivers a fiesta of flavors in one easy casserole. Mexican-inspired ingredients layer together, creating a crowd-pleasing meal that brings zest and comfort to your dinner table.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein and Base:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or turkey
- 1 tube (8 oz/235 g) Pillsbury crescent rolls
Seasoning and Liquid:
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix (or homemade, ~1 tablespoon)
- ½ cup (120 ml) water
Cheese and Optional Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups (150 g) shredded cheddar or Mexican-blend cheese
- ½ cup (50 g) diced tomatoes or salsa (optional)
Optional Toppings:
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Sour cream
- Guacamole
- Sliced black olives
- Jalapenos
Instructions
- Prepare the cooking environment by heating the oven to 375F (190C) and coating a round baking dish with a light layer of grease to prevent sticking.
- Transform ground beef into a savory taco filling by browning the meat in a skillet over medium heat, then draining excess fat. Infuse the meat with robust taco seasoning and a splash of water, allowing the mixture to simmer and thicken into a rich, flavorful base.
- Craft the foundation of the dish by carefully unrolling crescent roll dough and strategically positioning the triangular pieces within the prepared baking dish. Create a seamless crust by overlapping the wide ends in the center and extending the pointed tips outward, pressing gently to eliminate any potential gaps.
- Layer the culinary creation by spreading the seasoned taco meat evenly across the dough foundation. Enhance the flavor profile by scattering diced tomatoes or a vibrant salsa, then blanket the surface with a generous helping of shredded cheese.
- Artfully fold the overhanging crescent roll points toward the center, partially concealing the savory filling while allowing tantalizing glimpses of the ingredients beneath.
- Slide the assembled dish into the preheated oven, allowing the crust to transform into a golden-brown masterpiece over 20-25 minutes. Ensure the dough is thoroughly cooked and the filling is heated through.
- Add a final flourish of cheese during the last 2-3 minutes of baking, creating a molten, bubbling topping that promises irresistible flavor.
- Allow the taco bake to rest briefly, then slice into wedges that reveal the layers of seasoned meat and melted cheese. Present alongside an array of traditional taco accompaniments for a complete culinary experience.
Notes
- Swap ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a leaner, healthier alternative that still packs incredible flavor and satisfies different dietary preferences.
- Use whole wheat crescent rolls to boost fiber content and add nutritional value without compromising the delicious taste of this comfort food classic.
- For gluten-sensitive guests, replace regular crescent rolls with gluten-free versions available in most grocery stores, ensuring everyone can enjoy this crowd-pleasing dish.
- Customize the heat level by selecting mild, medium, or spicy taco seasoning, allowing you to control the flavor intensity based on personal preference or family’s spice tolerance.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 16 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg