Name: Weeknight Taco Braid
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef (leaner cut for a healthier option); 1 15-oz can black beans (drained and rinsed); 2 cups salsa (mild, medium, or hot); 1 1-oz package taco seasoning (homemade seasoning can be used); 1 8-oz can crescent rolls (base for braid); 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (can substitute with other cheese varieties)

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If you’re searching for a quick and delicious dinner that will please the whole family, look no further than this Weeknight Taco Braid! This recipe combines the bold flavors of taco night with the fun and flaky texture of crescent rolls. It’s a crowd-pleaser, simple to prepare, and perfect for those busy evenings when time is of the essence. You can have a hearty meal on the table in no time, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner.

Why This Weeknight Taco Braid Stands Out

What makes this Weeknight Taco Braid a standout dish? For starters, it’s incredibly versatile. Packed with lean ground beef, black beans, and cheese, each bite delivers a delightful mix of textures and flavors. The crescent roll dough adds a unique twist that sets it apart from traditional tacos. Not only is it quick to assemble, but it also requires minimal cleanup, making it perfect for those hectic evenings when you want to spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your loved ones.

Ingredient Notes

To create this delicious Weeknight Taco Braid, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 lb lean ground beef: Choose a leaner cut for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
1 (15-oz) can black beans: Make sure to drain and rinse them to remove excess sodium.
2 cups salsa: Your choice of mild, medium, or hot salsa will work.
1 (1-oz) package taco seasoning: This adds the essential taco flavor. Feel free to use homemade seasoning if you prefer.
1 (8-oz) can crescent rolls: This is the base for your braid, adding a delightful flaky texture.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: A must-have for that cheesy goodness; you can use a different cheese variety if you prefer.

Essential Tools for Success

Before you start cooking, gather the following tools to make the process seamless:

Large skillet: For browning the ground beef and mixing the filling.
Spatula: To help break up the beef while it cooks.
Baking sheet: To place your taco braid while it bakes in the oven.
Parchment paper: Optional, but it helps with easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
Sharp knife: For cutting the crescent dough into strips for braiding.

Build Weeknight Taco Braid Step by Step

Creating your Weeknight Taco Braid is a fun and straightforward process! Follow these steps for a delicious result:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your taco braid bakes evenly and gets that golden-brown finish.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the lean ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain any excess fat for a leaner filling.

Step 3: Add Beans and Seasoning

Once the beef is cooked, stir in the drained black beans and taco seasoning. Pour in your salsa and mix until everything is well combined. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Prepare the Crescent Rolls

While the filling is simmering, unroll the crescent roll dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Pinch the seams together to create a solid rectangle.

Step 5: Create the Braid

Using a sharp knife, cut strips along the sides of the dough, leaving the center uncut. Make sure the strips are even for a beautiful braid.

Step 6: Fill and Braid

Spoon the beef and bean mixture down the center of the dough. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the filling. Now, take each strip and fold it over the filling, alternating sides to create a braid effect. Press the ends to seal.

Step 7: Add Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle the remaining cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the braid. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the taco braid from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite taco toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or extra salsa. Enjoy this delightful Weeknight Taco Braid with your family!

Quick Replacement Ideas

If you’re in need of some substitutions or want to customize your Weeknight Taco Braid, consider these ideas:

Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of ground beef for a lighter option.
Swap black beans for pinto beans or kidney beans for a different flavor.
Try using a different cheese, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick.
Vegetarian options: Use a meat substitute or additional vegetables like bell peppers and corn for a veggie-packed filling.

Troubles You Can Avoid

To ensure your Weeknight Taco Braid turns out perfectly, keep these potential pitfalls in mind:

Don’t overfill the braid; it can cause the filling to leak out during baking.
Ensure the crescent roll dough is fully sealed at the seams to prevent opening while baking.
Monitor the baking time closely to avoid burning the top; every oven varies slightly.
Let it cool slightly before slicing to help maintain the structure of the braid.

Make-Ahead & Storage

This Weeknight Taco Braid can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prep! Here are some storage tips:

Assemble the braid in advance and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
You can freeze the uncooked assembled braid. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Bake it straight from the freezer; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reader Questions

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives work great in this recipe.

What toppings do you recommend serving with the taco braid?

Popular toppings include sour cream, guacamole, diced tomatoes, jalapeños, and fresh cilantro. Get creative with your favorites!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! You can use gluten-free crescent roll dough or a gluten-free pastry alternative to create your braid.

How do I know when the taco braid is done baking?

The taco braid is ready when the dough is golden brown, and the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can also use a toothpick to check that the center is hot.

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The Takeaway

In a world where time is precious, the Weeknight Taco Braid brings a delightful and satisfying meal to your dinner table with minimal effort. It’s a fun, interactive dish that lets everyone dig in and enjoy. Whether you’re feeding a family or entertaining friends, this recipe is sure to impress with its delicious flavors and beautiful presentation. So why not give it a try? You’ll find that this Weeknight Taco Braid quickly becomes a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation!

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