Delicious Taco Pie

If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful dish that brings the best of taco night into one hearty pie, look no further than this Delicious Taco Pie. Packed with a perfectly seasoned ground beef or turkey filling, a tender masa harina crust, and topped with melty cheese, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s a weeknight family dinner or a casual get-together with friends, this dish delivers all the spice and satisfaction with minimal fuss. Plus, it’s made with simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, making it an accessible and delightful meal.

Why This Delicious Taco Pie Stands Out

This recipe shines because it combines the beloved flavors of tacos into a convenient, sliceable pie form. Unlike traditional tacos that require assembly at the table, this pie is an all-in-one dish that’s easy to serve and enjoy. The crust, made from masa harina, offers a subtle corn flavor and a tender, slightly crumbly texture that perfectly complements the savory meat and bean filling. Layered with cheese that melts into gooey goodness, it’s comfort food that feels special without complicated steps.

Moreover, the seasoning blend balances warmth and zest with cumin, chili powder, garlic, and onion powder—all marrying beautifully to create a rich, layered taste. The inclusion of beans and diced tomatoes with green chilies adds moisture and extra heartiness, making it a well-rounded meal. This Delicious Taco Pie is also incredibly versatile, allowing for swaps and tweaks to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredient Rundown

• 1 1/2 cups hot water: Used to hydrate the masa harina to form the crust.
• 1 1/2 cups masa harina: A finely ground corn flour that forms the base crust with a tender texture.
• 1 tsp salt: Enhances the flavor of the crust and filling.
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder and 1/2 tsp ground cumin: Add warm, savory notes to the crust.
• 1 tbsp olive oil: Gives moisture and richness to the crust.
• 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey: The protein base of the filling; ground turkey is a lean alternative.
• 1 tsp granulated onion powder, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp chili powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp pepper: The spice blend that seasons the meat beautifully.
• 1/2 tsp cornstarch: Helps thicken the filling slightly for a perfect pie consistency.
• 1 15.5 ounce can pinto or black beans, drained: Adds fiber, texture, and heartiness to the filling.
• 1 10 ounce can diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained: Brings moisture, acidity, and a touch of heat.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese: Melts on top, creating a golden, flavorful crust.

Hardware & Gadgets

• Mixing bowl: For preparing the masa harina dough.
• 9-inch pie dish or round baking dish: To assemble and bake the taco pie.
• Skillet: To cook the ground meat and spices.
• Spatula or wooden spoon: For stirring the filling.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accuracy helps balance flavors and textures.
• Cheese grater: If shredding your own cheese.

Delicious Taco Pie — Do This Next

Step 1: Prepare the Masa Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine the masa harina, salt, garlic powder, and ground cumin. Slowly add the hot water while stirring until a soft dough forms. Stir in the olive oil and knead gently until smooth. Set aside while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Cook the Meat Filling

Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or turkey, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Season and Thicken the Filling

Add granulated onion powder, garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to the meat. Stir well to combine. Sprinkle the cornstarch over the meat and stir it in, then add the drained beans and canned diced tomatoes with green chilies. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.

Step 4: Assemble the Taco Pie

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Press about two-thirds of the masa dough evenly into the bottom and up the sides of your pie dish to form a crust. Spoon the meat and bean filling evenly over the masa crust. Crumble or press the remaining masa dough over the filling to create a top crust.

Step 5: Bake and Add Cheese

Bake the pie for 25 minutes or until the masa crust is firm and slightly golden. Remove from oven, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top, and return to the oven. Bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Let the pie cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite taco toppings like sour cream, chopped cilantro, diced avocado, or fresh salsa.

Substitutions by Category

• Protein: Swap ground beef or turkey for ground chicken, plant-based meat crumbles, or cooked lentils for a vegetarian twist.
• Beans: Use kidney beans, chickpeas, or refried beans instead of pinto or black beans.
• Cheese: Substitute cheddar or Mexican blend with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
• Spices: Adjust chili powder level for more or less heat; smoked paprika adds a lovely smoky flavor.
• Masa harina: For a gluten-free option, masa harina is already suitable, but ensure the brand is certified gluten-free.

What Not to Do

• Do not skip draining the beans well; excess liquid will make the filling too watery and affect the pie’s texture.
• Avoid overworking the masa dough; it should be soft but not sticky or crumbly.
• Do not undercook the meat mixture; ensure it’s fully cooked and well-seasoned before assembling.
• Resist the urge to slice the pie immediately after baking — letting it rest helps it set and slice cleanly.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

This Delicious Taco Pie keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store leftovers in an airtight container or tightly cover the pie with foil. Reheat individual slices in the microwave or warm the whole pie in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

For longer storage, you can freeze the unbaked pie assembled in a freezer-safe dish. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.

Common Questions

Can I make this Delicious Taco Pie vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the ground beef or turkey with plant-based meat alternatives, cooked lentils, or extra beans. You might also want to add diced vegetables like bell peppers or corn for added texture and flavor.

Is masa harina the same as cornmeal?

While both come from corn, masa harina is specially treated with lime (calcium hydroxide) and finely ground, giving it a unique flavor and texture ideal for tortillas and pie crusts like this one. Regular cornmeal won’t provide the same results.

Can I use shredded chicken instead of ground meat?

Yes! Cooked shredded chicken can be seasoned and mixed with the beans and tomatoes for the filling. Just be mindful that shredded chicken is less fatty, so you might want to add a splash of olive oil or broth to keep the filling moist.

How spicy is this pie, and can I adjust the heat?

This recipe has a moderate level of spice from the chili powder and green chilies in the diced tomatoes. You can adjust the heat by reducing or omitting chili powder, or adding fresh jalapeños if you prefer it spicier.

You Might Also Like

• Instant Pot Taco Pasta — A quick and cheesy pasta dish with all the taco flavors in one pot.
• Mexican Shredded Beef Tacos — Slow-cooked, tender beef tacos perfect for taco night.
• Walking Taco Casserole — A fun, layered casserole inspired by classic walking tacos.

Hungry for More?

If you love dishes that bring bold flavors and comforting vibes to your table, be sure to check out other recipes that celebrate the vibrant tastes of Mexican-inspired cuisine. From quick weeknight meals to hearty casseroles, there’s a world of deliciousness waiting for you to explore. This Delicious Taco Pie is a fantastic gateway to experimenting with flavors and textures that your whole family will love.

Whether you’re making this for a casual dinner or a potluck, it’s a recipe that invites smiles and seconds. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and dive into the wonderful world of this Delicious Taco Pie. Your taste buds will thank you!

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