Description
Enjoy a flavorful homemade taco pie with layers of seasoned beef, cheese, and crispy crust. Perfect for a hearty meal any night of the week.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound ground turkey (or lean ground beef) – This serves as the protein base, providing the essential flavor and texture that define the dish.
- 1 small onion, diced – Onions add a sweet and savory element, enhancing the overall taste.
- 1 oz taco seasoning (or homemade mix) – This spice blend is crucial for delivering authentic taco flavor. You can easily find pre-made options or mix your own with chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder.
- ¾ cup water – This helps to hydrate the seasoning and bind the meat together.
- 1 (9-inch) refrigerated or homemade pie crust – The crust provides a sturdy shell that holds all the delicious fillings.
- 1 cup refried beans (optional) – Refried beans can offer additional creaminess and protein, acting as a delightful layer in the pie.
- 1½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack) – Cheese is essential for that gooey, melty finish that we all crave.
- 1 medium diced tomato – Fresh tomatoes add a burst of freshness and color.
- 4 oz diced green chilies (optional) – These lend a bit of heat and flavor to the mix.
- ¼ cup sliced black olives (optional) – Olives contribute a salty contrast that enhances the overall flavor palette.
- ½ cup crushed tortilla chips (for garnish) – Adding these on top provides an extra crunch and a classic taco vibe.
- Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, salsa, shredded lettuce, jalapeños, cilantro – These not only improve presentation but also allow customization for personal preferences.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a 9-inch pie dish by greasing it lightly.
- Cook the ground turkey: In a skillet over medium heat, brown 1 pound of ground turkey for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula until fully cooked.
- Add the onion: Stir in 1 small diced onion and sauté until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Spice it up: Add 1 oz of taco seasoning and ¾ cup of water to the skillet. Let everything simmer for 3-4 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Prepare the crust: Roll out your pie crust and place it in the prepared pie dish, pricking the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling.
- Add refried beans: If using refried beans, spread 1 cup evenly on the bottom of the crust, creating a flavorful base for the meat.
- Layer in the meat: Spoon the seasoned turkey mixture over the beans, spreading it out evenly.
- Top it off: Sprinkle 1½ cups of shredded cheese over the top, followed by 1 medium diced tomato, 4 oz of diced green chilies, and ¼ cup of sliced black olives if desired.
- Bake to perfection: Place the pie in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- Cool and serve: Once out of the oven, let it cool for about 5 minutes. Garnish with ½ cup of crushed tortilla chips and your favorite toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, or shredded lettuce.