Pillsbury Crescent Roll Taco Bake is a simple and delicious way to bring all the flavors of tacos to the dinner table with minimal effort. This taco bake features a flaky crescent roll crust filled with seasoned beef, melted cheese, and all your favorite taco toppings. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cooking Notes
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 can (8 oz) Pillsbury crescent rolls
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for serving)
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce (optional, for serving)
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional, for serving)
- Sliced black olives (optional, for garnish)
- Chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the taco seasoning mix and water, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until the seasoning is well combined and the mixture thickens.
Step 2: Assemble the Crescent Roll Crust
- Unroll the can of crescent rolls and separate into triangles. Arrange the triangles in a greased 9-inch pie dish or round baking dish, pressing the dough together to cover the bottom and sides of the dish, creating a crust.
- Spoon the seasoned beef mixture evenly over the crescent roll crust.
- Spread the salsa over the beef, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Step 3: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the crescent roll crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and allow it to cool for 5 minutes before slicing.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve the taco bake with a dollop of sour cream, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, and chopped fresh cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Notes
- Ground Beef: You can use lean ground beef to reduce the amount of grease, or substitute with ground turkey for a lighter option.
- Crescent Roll Crust: Be sure to press the seams of the crescent roll dough together well to prevent gaps in the crust during baking.
- Toppings: Customize the toppings based on your preferences—add sliced jalapeños, diced onions, or avocado slices for extra flavor.
Variations
Spicy Taco Bake
- Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the ground beef mixture for a spicy kick.
Vegetarian Crescent Roll Taco Bake
- Replace the ground beef with cooked black beans or crumbled tofu seasoned with taco seasoning for a vegetarian version.
Cheesy Taco Bake
- Add an extra layer of cheese by mixing in 1/2 cup of cream cheese or shredded pepper jack with the ground beef mixture before baking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Taco Bake Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the taco bake ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Use Crescent Dough Sheet Instead of Crescent Rolls?
Absolutely! Crescent dough sheets work just as well and create a seamless crust that’s easy to work with.
What Can I Serve With This Taco Bake?
This dish pairs well with a side of Spanish rice, refried beans, or a fresh green salad.
Pillsbury Crescent Roll Taco Bake is a fun and easy dinner that brings all the delicious flavors of a classic taco into a simple, baked dish. The flaky crescent roll crust, seasoned beef, and melted cheese make it a family favorite that’s quick to prepare and sure to satisfy. Whether you enjoy it as a weeknight dinner or for a casual gathering, this taco bake is always a hit.
Feel free to add your favorite taco toppings and enjoy this comforting and flavorful meal with your loved ones!
