Pillsbury Crescent Roll Taco Bake is a delightful fusion of savory taco flavors wrapped in a buttery, golden crescent roll crust. This quick and easy recipe combines ground beef seasoned with taco spices, salsa, and melted cheddar cheese, all baked into a crispy base. It’s a fun twist on traditional tacos, making it perfect for busy weeknights or even a casual dinner with friends. The flaky crust complements the flavorful taco filling, and with fresh toppings like shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
INGREDIENTS
- 1 (8 oz) can Pillsbury® refrigerated crescent dinner rolls: The foundation of the dish, forming a flaky, golden crust that holds the taco filling.
- 1 lb lean ground beef (at least 80%): The main protein in the recipe, offering a savory and hearty base.
- 3/4 cup Old El Paso® Thick 'n Chunky salsa: Adds a bold, tangy flavor to the beef mixture, enhancing the taco theme.
- 2 tablespoons Old El Paso® taco seasoning mix: Infuses the beef with traditional taco spices, creating a deliciously seasoned filling.
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese: Melts on top of the taco bake, adding creamy richness and a cheesy finish.
- Shredded lettuce (as desired): Provides a fresh, crunchy topping for the taco bake once it's out of the oven.
- Diced tomato (as desired): Adds a burst of juicy flavor and color to the final dish.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Unroll the crescent dough and separate it into 8 triangles. Place the dough in an ungreased 9-inch square pan or 10-inch pie plate, pressing it over the bottom and up the sides to form a crust.
- Step 2:
- In a 10-inch skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Step 3:
- Add the Old El Paso® taco seasoning mix and salsa to the cooked beef, stirring until well combined. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Step 4:
- Spoon the beef mixture into the crescent roll crust, spreading it evenly across the bottom of the pan.
- Step 5:
- Sprinkle the shredded Cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the meat mixture.
- Step 6:
- Bake the taco bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is deep golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Step 7:
- Remove from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Top with shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes as desired before serving.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Pillsbury Crescent Roll Taco Bake is best served warm, topped with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and your favorite taco toppings like sour cream or avocado slices.
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
- For a fun twist, serve the taco bake with extra salsa or hot sauce on the side to give it an extra kick of flavor.
Helpful Notes
- To add more flavor, mix in a can of chopped green chiles with the beef mixture before baking. The chiles will add a slight heat and a pop of flavor to the dish.
- If you prefer a spicier taco bake, use a hot taco seasoning mix and choose a spicier salsa.
- This dish is versatile and can be customized with your favorite toppings. Add jalapeños, olives, or even extra cheese for more variation.
Tips from well-known chefs
- Chef Rick Bayless: “For an authentic taco flavor, use fresh, high-quality salsa. The balance of acidity and spice will elevate your dish.”
- Chef Rachael Ray: “Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses. A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack can give the taco bake an extra creamy texture.”
- Chef Gordon Ramsay: “When baking with crescent dough, make sure to bake until the crust is deeply golden. This ensures a crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft taco filling.”