Pillsbury Crescent Roll Taco

This Pillsbury Crescent Roll Taco Bake turns taco night into an effortless and crowd-pleasing meal. With its flaky buttery crust and savory seasoned beef, it’s a fresh way to enjoy familiar flavors all baked into one dish. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying dinner without fuss.

I first made this for a family gathering when time was tight and everyone loved how the crescent crust added a fun twist to tacos. Now it’s a regular request at our house.

Ingredients

• One 8-ounce 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): as 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 mix
• Two tablespoons Old El Paso taco seasoning mix from a one-ounce package: to keep the seasoning consistent and balanced
• One cup shredded Cheddar cheese: that melts beautifully on top for that gooey finish
• Shredded lettuce and diced tomato: as fresh garnish to add crunch and brightness to the baked dish

Step-by-Step 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 nine-inch square pan or ten-inch pie plate covering the bottom and going up the sides to form a crust that will hold the filling.

Cook the beef:

In a ten-inch skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat for eight to ten minutes. Stir occasionally until the meat is fully browned and no longer pink. Drain the excess fat carefully to keep the dish from being greasy.

Add salsa and seasoning:

Stir in the Thick 'n Chunky salsa and taco seasoning mix into the cooked beef. Let the mixture simmer on low for five minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld and ensures the filling is flavorful and juicy.

Assemble with cheese:

Spoon the beef mixture evenly into the crescent roll crust, spreading it gently but thoroughly. Sprinkle the shredded Cheddar cheese evenly over the top for even melting.

Bake to golden:

Bake the assembled taco bake in the preheated oven for twenty to twenty-five minutes. The crust should turn a deep golden brown and the cheese must be fully melted and slightly bubbly.

Add fresh toppings and serve:

Remove from the oven and top with shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes as desired. Serve hot for the best experience—this adds a fresh crunch that complements the warm, cheesy base.

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My favorite part is the buttery crust which I find adds a comforting texture and rich flavor that pairs so well with spicy beef. One family summer night, this dish brought everyone around the table and sparked lively stories about our most memorable taco adventures.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through, but the oven helps keep the crust crisp. For longer storage, you can freeze the baked dish before adding fresh toppings. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Ingredient Substitutions

• Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef for a lighter option.
• If you prefer a vegetarian version, swap the meat for seasoned cooked lentils or black beans.
• Feel free to use a mild or spicy salsa according to your taste preference.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve this taco bake with a side of Mexican rice or refried beans to round out the meal.
• A dollop of sour cream or guacamole on the side adds creaminess and balances the spices.
• Pair with a crisp green salad or corn salad for extra fresh crunch and color.

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Cultural Context

This recipe riffs on the classic American taco combining Tex-Mex flavors with convenience foods like crescent rolls. It shows how traditional dishes can be adapted into casserole forms popular for family dinners and potlucks. The use of taco seasoning and salsa reflects a fusion of flavors that celebrate the love of tacos in everyday home cooking.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of dough is used for the crust?

Refrigerated crescent roll dough is unrolled and pressed into a baking dish to form a flaky, buttery crust that crisps during baking.

→ Can I use another type of ground meat?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for beef to give a lighter variation without sacrificing flavor.

→ How can I add more spice to the filling?

Adding chopped green chiles or extra taco seasoning can increase the heat and depth of flavor in the meat mixture.

→ What cheese works best for melting on top?

Shredded Cheddar cheese melts nicely, providing a rich, gooey topping, but you can also try Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend.

→ Are there suggestions for serving this dish?

Serving with fresh garnishes like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, and avocado slices brings texture and coolness that balance the rich filling.

→ Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, the filling can be made in advance and assembled right before baking for convenience and fresh crust texture.