Impossible Taco Pie

Welcome to a world of culinary delight with our Impossible Taco Pie recipe! This dish offers a unique and flavorful twist on the traditional taco, combining all the beloved taco flavors into a convenient and delicious pie format. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Join us on a journey through the ingredients, instructions, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb adaptations for a dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lbs lean ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 (4.5 oz) can diced green chiles
• 1/2 cup salsa
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup Bisquick mix
• 1 cup milk
• 3 large eggs
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Cilantro, finely chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9-inch pie dish with cooking spray or butter.
2. Brown the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the lean ground beef until it’s fully cooked and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
3. Season and Add Flavor: Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked ground beef and stir well to combine. Add the diced green chiles and salsa to the skillet, stirring until everything is evenly mixed.
4. Layer the Pie Dish: Transfer the seasoned beef mixture into the prepared pie dish, spreading it out evenly to cover the bottom.
5. Sprinkle with Cheese: Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese over the beef mixture, creating a generous layer of cheesy goodness.
6. Prepare the Batter: In a separate bowl, whisk together the Bisquick mix, milk, and eggs until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Pour Over the Beef: Carefully pour the Bisquick mixture over the beef and cheese in the pie dish, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
8. Bake to Perfection: Place the pie dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pie is set and the top is golden brown.
9. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the taco pie from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Cook’s Notes and Variations:

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or a mixture of black beans and corn for a vegetarian version.
• Cheese Lover’s Delight: Experiment with different types of cheese such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend for added flavor.
• Customize Your Toppings: Serve with your favorite taco toppings such as sour cream, diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, or shredded lettuce for extra freshness and flavor.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions: For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here are some modifications you can make to adapt this recipe:

• Low-Carb Bisquick Substitute: Use a low-carb baking mix or almond flour instead of Bisquick to reduce the carb content.
• Replace Milk with Cream: Substitute heavy cream or a mixture of cream and water for the milk to lower the carb count further.
• Watch the Salsa: Opt for a salsa with no added sugar or make your own using fresh tomatoes, onions, peppers, and spices to control the carb content.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef in this recipe. Adjust seasoning as needed for flavor.
2. Can I make this ahead of time? Absolutely! You can assemble the taco pie ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then bake as directed when ready to serve.
3. What should I serve with Impossible Taco Pie? This dish pairs well with a variety of sides such as a fresh green salad, Mexican rice, refried beans, or guacamole.
4. Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, you can freeze leftover slices of taco pie for future meals. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake in a preheated oven until heated through.

With its savory filling, fluffy topping, and endless possibilities for customization, Impossible Taco Pie is a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe is sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings for classic taco flavors in a convenient and comforting pie format. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a delicious meal that’s truly impossible to resist!