Pillsbury Crescent Roll Taco

This Pillsbury Crescent Roll Taco is a simple and satisfying twist on taco night. It uses flaky crescent dough as a buttery crust filled with seasoned ground beef simmered in salsa and spices. Topped with melted Cheddar cheese and fresh crisp lettuce and diced tomatoes, it offers a playful blend of textures and flavors that make for a comforting meal without complicated prep.

I first made this dish on a busy weeknight when I wanted something flavorful with little fuss. It instantly became a family favorite, requested regularly for its combination of taste and ease.

Ingredients

• One 8ounce can Pillsbury refrigerated crescent dinner rolls: for a flaky buttery crust that bakes perfectly in a casserole
• One pound lean ground beef at least 80 percent: for the hearty protein base choose freshly ground for best texture
• Three quarters cup Old El Paso Thick 'n Chunky salsa: for added flavor and moisture within the beef mixture
• Two tablespoons Old El Paso taco seasoning mix from a oneounce package: to keep the seasoning consistent and balanced
• One cup shredded Cheddar cheese: that melts beautifully on top for a gooey finish
• Shredded lettuce and diced tomato: as fresh garnish to add crunch and brightness to the baked dish

Instructions

Sculpt the crust:

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Unroll the crescent dough and separate it into eight triangles. Press the dough gently into an ungreased nineinch square pan or teninch pie plate. Make sure the dough covers the bottom and goes up the sides to form a sturdy crust that will hold the filling without leaking.

Cook the beef:

Place a teninch skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook for eight to ten minutes, stirring occasionally to break up the meat. Continue until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink. Drain the excess fat carefully to avoid a greasy dish.

Add salsa and seasoning:

Stir the Thick 'n Chunky salsa and taco seasoning into the cooked beef. Lower the heat to a simmer and cook for five minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the mixture to thicken slightly for a juicy but not watery filling.

Assemble with cheese:

Spoon the beef mixture evenly into the prepared crescent roll crust. Spread gently but cover all areas so every bite has beef. Sprinkle the shredded Cheddar cheese evenly over the top to ensure it melts uniformly during baking.

Bake to golden:

Place the assembled taco bake in your preheated oven. Bake for twenty to twentyfive minutes until the crust is a deep golden brown and the cheese is fully melted and bubbling with slight browning around the edges.

Add fresh toppings and serve:

Remove from the oven and immediately top with shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes. Serve hot so the warm, cheesy base contrasts perfectly with the crisp fresh toppings.

My favorite part is the buttery crust which adds a comforting texture and rich flavor that pairs wonderfully with the spicy beef. One summer night, making this dish brought the whole family around the table, sparking stories about our most memorable taco adventures.

Storage tips

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, the oven is your best friend to keep the crust crisp while warming the filling. For longer storage, freeze the assembled bake before adding fresh toppings. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Ingredient substitutions

You can swap ground turkey or chicken for beef if you want a lighter option. For vegetarians, seasoned cooked lentils or black beans work great instead of meat. Adjust salsa heat level to your preference by choosing mild or spicy versions.

Serving suggestions

Try serving this taco bake with Mexican rice or refried beans to complete your meal. Adding a dollop of sour cream or guacamole brings creaminess and balances the spices. A crisp green salad or fresh corn salad pairs well too for color and crunch.

Serve hot and enjoy the contrast of the warm cheesy base and crisp fresh toppings. This easy bake makes a great weeknight meal that pleases a crowd.

Common Recipe Questions

→ What dough is used for the crust?

Refrigerated crescent roll dough is unrolled and pressed into the baking dish, creating a flaky and buttery crust that crisps as it bakes.

→ Can I substitute the ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter alternative while maintaining flavor and texture.

→ How can I add more heat to the filling?

Incorporate chopped green chiles or increase the taco seasoning to enhance the spice and depth of flavor.

→ Which cheese melts best on top?

Shredded Cheddar melts nicely to a rich, gooey finish, but Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend also work well.

→ What are suggested accompaniments?

Fresh garnishes such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, and avocado slices add texture and complement the hearty filling.

→ Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, the filling can be made in advance and assembled just before baking to keep the crust crisp and fresh.