If you’re craving something that combines all your favorite taco flavors into one hearty, comforting dish, this Deep Dish Taco Pie Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine a buttery pie crust filled with seasoned ground beef, zesty taco rice, sweet corn, and gooey cheddar cheese, all brought together by a savory salsa-egg mixture baked to golden perfection. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser for family dinners, potlucks, or anytime you want a delicious twist on taco night that’s easy to make and impossible to resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Deep Dish Taco Pie Recipe comes together with simple, everyday ingredients that pack a punch in flavor and texture. Each component plays a vital role in creating that perfect balance of crisp crust, creamy layers, and bold taco seasoning.
- 2 lbs ground beef: The hearty protein base that absorbs all the delicious taco spices.
- 2 (1-oz) packages taco seasoning: Provides that classic, zesty taco flavor that ties everything together.
- 2 (5.6-oz) packages Knorr Taco Rice: Adds a flavorful, textured layer that soaks up the savory juices.
- 1 (12-oz) package frozen corn kernels, thawed: Sweet bursts of corn add a subtle crunch and vibrant color.
- 1 cup salsa: Brings a tangy and slightly spicy brightness to the custard mixture.
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey, golden goodness that every bite craves.
- 3 eggs: Binds the layers together in a rich custard that holds the pie’s shape.
- 1½ cups milk: Balances the eggs and salsa for a creamy texture.
- 1 (15-oz) package refrigerated pie crust (2-count): The flaky, buttery shell that cradles all the delicious fillings.
How to Make Deep Dish Taco Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish
Start by heating your oven to a toasty 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray—this will help the pie crust release easily and keep things mess-free.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
Brown the ground beef in a skillet until there’s no pink left, then drain off any excess fat to keep the pie from becoming greasy. Stir in the taco seasoning with the amount of water specified on the packet, letting it simmer until the liquid evaporates and the beef is richly coated with seasoning.
Step 3: Prepare the Taco Rice
Simultaneously, cook the two packages of Knorr Taco Rice as directed on their packages. The rice is infused with flavors that complement the taco meat beautifully, adding body and heartiness to the pie. Once cooked, set it aside and let it cool just a bit.
Step 4: Line the Pie Crust
Unroll both pie crusts and gently press them into the bottom and up the sides of your baking dish, making sure there are no gaps by pressing the edges together with your fingers. This flaky crust is the delicious base that will crisp up around all the vibrant fillings.
Step 5: Layer the Fillings
Start by spreading the thawed corn kernels evenly over the pie crust—these add a sweet counterpoint to the savory beef. Next, layer on the cooked taco rice, then pile on the seasoned taco meat. Top it all off with a generous heap of shredded cheddar cheese for that irresistible melty finish.
Step 6: Whisk the Custard Mixture
In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and salsa until smooth. This mixture will soak into the layers and set as it bakes, giving the pie an amazingly creamy texture with a subtle kick from the salsa.
Step 7: Bake
Pour the egg mixture carefully over the layered ingredients, then set the pie on the oven’s middle rack. Bake for 30 minutes or until the top is lightly browned and the custard is fully set.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Let the Deep Dish Taco Pie rest for 10 to 15 minutes after baking. This allows everything to firm up so it slices cleanly and the flavors meld beautifully.
How to Serve Deep Dish Taco Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh toppings turn this flavorful pie into a showstopper. Try sprinkling chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, or diced avocado on top. A dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lime juice adds bright contrast and an extra pop of flavor—trust me, these little touches make every bite even better.
Side Dishes
Serve your Deep Dish Taco Pie Recipe alongside a crisp green salad, a bowl of fresh tomato salsa, or even some crunchy tortilla chips to balance out the warm, cheesy richness. Mexican street corn or refried beans also pair beautifully and round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun spin, consider making individual Deep Dish Taco Pies using muffin tins—perfect for parties or lunchboxes. You can also top your pie with sliced jalapeños or swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese to add extra heat. Presentation is part of the fun, so don’t hesitate to get creative!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or foil and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, and the flavors often taste even better after having time to meld overnight.
Freezing
This Deep Dish Taco Pie Recipe freezes wonderfully. Wrap it well in foil or place it in an airtight container before freezing for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat slices in a preheated 350-degree oven until warmed through and the crust is crisp again—about 15 to 20 minutes. Avoid microwaving for best texture unless you’re in a hurry; the oven brings back that freshly baked magic.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will lighten up the dish while still soaking in all the taco seasoning flavor wonderfully.
Is there a vegetarian version of this Deep Dish Taco Pie Recipe?
Yes, you can swap out beef for sautéed beans or seasoned lentils. Just cook your protein alternative with taco seasoning and follow the rest of the recipe as usual for a delicious meatless option.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free pie crust and check that your taco seasoning and rice packages are gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy it safely.
What can I substitute for Knorr Taco Rice?
If Knorr Taco Rice is unavailable, cook plain rice and season it yourself with a mix of cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and salt. It won’t be quite the same but still delicious!
How spicy is this Deep Dish Taco Pie Recipe?
The dish is moderately spicy, thanks to the taco seasoning and salsa. You can adjust the heat by choosing mild or hot taco seasoning, and using a milder salsa if preferred.
Final Thoughts
I hope you feel inspired to try this Deep Dish Taco Pie Recipe because it truly brings comfort food and fun together in a way that’s easy to make and endlessly satisfying. Next time you want a meal that lights up your taste buds and gathers everyone around the table with smiles, this pie is your go-to. Happy baking and even happier eating!
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Deep Dish Taco Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Description
Deep Dish Taco Pie is a hearty, flavorful casserole that combines seasoned ground beef, taco rice, corn, and cheese baked within a crunchy pie crust. Topped with a savory egg and salsa mixture, this dish makes a perfect family-friendly Mexican-inspired meal ready in under an hour.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 2 (1-oz) packages taco seasoning
- 2 (5.6-oz) packages Knorr Taco Rice
- 1 (12-oz) package frozen corn kernels, thawed
- 1 cup salsa
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 eggs
- 1½ cups milk
- 1 (15-oz) package refrigerated pie crust (2-count)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400ºF (204ºC). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking and set it aside.
- Cook Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it is no longer pink. Drain excess fat. Add the taco seasoning along with the water quantity called for on the seasoning package, then cook until all liquid is absorbed and the beef is well seasoned.
- Prepare Taco Rice: Cook both packages of Knorr Taco Rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, allow the rice to cool slightly to make layering easier.
- Prepare Pie Crust: Lay the pie crusts into the prepared baking dish, covering the bottom and sides completely. Press seams and edges together firmly with your fingers to form one solid crust layer that holds the filling.
- Layer Ingredients: Spread the thawed corn kernels evenly over the pie crust. Next, layer the cooked taco rice over the corn. Then spread the seasoned taco meat on top of the rice. Finally, sprinkle 3 cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the meat layer.
- Mix Egg Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and salsa until fully combined. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the baking dish. This will help bind the pie together and infuse it with extra flavor.
- Bake the Pie: Place the baking dish on the middle rack of the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes or until the top starts to turn golden brown and the egg mixture is set.
- Rest and Serve: Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes. This resting period helps the pie set for easier slicing and serving.
Notes
- Make sure to drain excess grease from the cooked ground beef to avoid a soggy pie.
- You can substitute shredded Monterey Jack or Mexican blend cheese for cheddar if desired.
- Letting the pie rest after baking helps the layers firm up, making it easier to cut neat slices.
- Use fresh or canned corn kernels if frozen corn is not available; just drain well.
- The pie crust serves as both the base and the edge holder, so press seams tightly to prevent spills during baking.
