Taco Pie

Taco Tuesday just got a whole lot better with our delectable Taco Pie recipe. This unique twist on a classic Mexican dish is sure to make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or a fun-filled fiesta with friends, Taco Pie is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds. In this blog post, we’ll take you through the journey of creating this culinary masterpiece, step by step. We’ll also share some exciting variations and tips to make your Taco Pie even more special.

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cornmeal
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
• 1/4 cup ice water

For the Filling:

• 1 pound ground beef (or your choice of ground meat or meat substitute)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet (about 1.25 ounces) taco seasoning mix
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chilies
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
• Sliced jalapeños (for extra heat, optional)

Instructions:

Preparing the Crust:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, and salt.
2. Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture.
3. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Slowly add the ice water and mix until the dough comes together.
5. Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Making the Filling:

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until no longer pink, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet, and sauté for a few minutes until they become translucent.
3. Stir in the taco seasoning mix and water. Simmer for a few minutes until the mixture thickens.
4. Remove the skillet from the heat, and stir in the diced tomatoes and green chilies.

Assembling the Taco Pie:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface into a circle to fit your pie dish.
3. Carefully transfer the dough to a greased 9-inch pie dish, pressing it into the bottom and up the sides.
4. Spread half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the bottom of the crust.
5. Pour the meat and tomato mixture over the cheese.
6. Top the filling with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
8. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
9. Garnish with dollops of sour cream, fresh cilantro, and sliced jalapeños, if desired.

Variation:

Vegetarian Taco Pie:

If you prefer a meatless option, substitute the ground beef with black beans or a plant-based meat alternative. You can also add sautéed bell peppers and corn for a burst of color and flavor.

Tips:

1. Customize Your Toppings: Get creative with your Taco Pie toppings. Consider adding diced avocado, sliced black olives, or pickled red onions for a unique twist.
2. Make-Ahead: You can prepare the crust and filling in advance and assemble the pie just before baking. This is a great time-saving tip for busy weeknights.
3. Serving Suggestions: Serve your Taco Pie with a side of salsa, guacamole, and a crisp green salad for a well-rounded meal.
4. Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, Taco Pie reheats beautifully in the microwave or oven. Just be prepared for it to disappear quickly!

In this epic culinary adventure, we’ve explored the world of Taco Pie, a delightful fusion of Mexican flavors and American comfort food. From the golden, flaky crust to the savory, spiced filling and the array of customizable toppings, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re a taco aficionado or a pie lover, this unique creation will leave you craving more. So, gather your friends and family, and prepare to savor the tantalizing taste of Taco Pie. With endless possibilities for customization and a flavor explosion that’s hard to beat, Taco Pie is destined to become a family favorite for generations to come. Embrace the delicious fusion of two culinary traditions, and let your taste buds embark on a flavorful journey that you won’t soon forget. Bon appétit!