Are you ready to revolutionize your weeknight dinners with a dish that’s both incredibly easy to make and bursting with flavor? Look no further than the Sheet Pan Taco Bake! This recipe takes the classic taco flavors you love and transforms them into a convenient one-pan meal that the whole family will enjoy. With a golden puff pastry crust, seasoned ground beef, and a colorful array of toppings, this dish is as visually appealing as it is delicious. So let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to create this mouthwatering masterpiece in your own kitchen!
Ingredients
- 1 refrigerated puff pastry sheet
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1/4 cup onion, chopped
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup water
- 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 1/2 cups green lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup black olives, sliced
- 1 cup cocktail tomatoes, sliced
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing or sour cream
Instructions
Preparing the Sheet Pan Taco Bake
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
- Unroll the puff pastry sheet onto the prepared sheet pan, pressing it down gently to cover the bottom evenly. Set aside.
Cooking the Ground Beef
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent.
- Drain any excess grease from the skillet, then add the taco seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, and water. Stir to combine and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the mixture has thickened slightly.
Assembling the Taco Bake
- Spread half of the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the puff pastry crust.
- Spoon the cooked ground beef mixture over the cheese, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture.
Baking and Serving
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the puff pastry is golden brown.
- Remove the taco bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Top with chopped lettuce, sliced black olives, and sliced cocktail tomatoes.
- Drizzle ranch dressing or sour cream over the top, if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with cooked black beans or lentils seasoned with taco seasoning for a meatless version.
- Spice it Up: Add diced jalapenos or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the ground beef mixture for an extra kick of heat.
- Customize Toppings: Feel free to personalize your taco bake with your favorite toppings such as diced avocado, salsa, or chopped cilantro.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
Keto Version
- Replace the puff pastry with a keto-friendly dough made from almond flour, cream cheese, and eggs.
- Use ground beef cooked with keto-friendly taco seasoning or spices.
- Substitute the cocktail tomatoes with diced avocado for a lower-carb option.
Low-Carb Version
- Use low-carb tortillas or a cauliflower crust as the base instead of puff pastry.
- Opt for lean ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef to reduce the fat content.
- Skip the cocktail tomatoes and black olives and top with low-carb veggies such as bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use store-bought taco seasoning or make my own? A: Yes, you can use store-bought taco seasoning for convenience, or you can make your own by combining chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Q: Can I prepare the taco bake in advance? A: Absolutely! You can assemble the taco bake ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and bake it when ready to serve.
Q: Can I freeze leftover taco bake? A: Yes, leftover taco bake can be frozen for future meals. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap individual portions or the entire dish tightly in aluminum foil and plastic wrap before freezing. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake in a preheated oven until warmed through.
Q: Can I customize the toppings to my liking? A: Of course! Feel free to get creative with the toppings and add your favorite ingredients such as diced bell peppers, onions, jalapenos, or shredded lettuce to suit your taste preferences.
The Sheet Pan Taco Bake is a game-changer for busy weeknights, offering a delicious and convenient meal that’s sure to please the whole family. With its golden puff pastry crust, flavorful seasoned beef, and colorful array of toppings, it’s a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. Whether you’re a taco enthusiast or simply looking for a fun twist on classic comfort food, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the incredible flavors of this easy and satisfying dish.
Experience the joy of cooking with the Sheet Pan Taco Bake and treat yourself to a meal that’s both effortless and incredibly delicious. With its simple preparation and versatile ingredients, it’s a recipe that’s perfect for any occasion, from busy weeknights to casual gatherings with friends. So don’t wait any longer – whip up a batch of this mouthwatering taco bake and delight your taste buds with every bite. Bon appétit!
