Easy Crescent Taco Bake

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Description:
This Easy Crescent Taco Bake is a quick and delicious dish that combines the classic flavors of tacos with flaky crescent rolls. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and makes a great option for family dinners or gatherings. With layers of seasoned ground beef, cheese, and veggies, this dish is sure to be a hit!

Ingredients:

  • Ground beef (or turkey): 1 lb (450 g)
  • Taco seasoning: 1 packet (about 1 oz / 28 g)
  • Crescent roll dough: 2 cans (8 oz each)
  • Shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend): 1.5 cups (150 g)
  • Onion (chopped): 1 medium
  • Bell pepper (chopped, optional): 1 (any color)
  • Salsa: ½ cup (120 ml)
  • Sour cream (for serving, optional)
  • Fresh cilantro or green onions (for garnish, optional)

Optional Ingredients:

  • Black beans (drained and rinsed): 1 can (15 oz)
  • Corn (frozen or canned): 1 cup

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven:
    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the beef:
    In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef (or turkey) and chopped onion until the meat is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. If using, add the chopped bell pepper and cook for another 3-4 minutes until softened.
  3. Add seasoning:
    Stir in the taco seasoning and 2/3 cup of water (as per the seasoning package instructions). Bring to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes until thickened. If using, stir in black beans and corn.
  4. Prepare the crescent rolls:
    While the meat mixture is simmering, unroll one can of crescent roll dough and press it into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish, sealing the perforations to create a crust.
  5. Layer the filling:
    Spoon the beef mixture evenly over the crescent roll crust. Pour salsa on top, and sprinkle shredded cheese over the filling.
  6. Top with crescent rolls:
    Unroll the second can of crescent roll dough and lay the triangles over the cheese, overlapping them slightly and sealing any gaps.
  7. Bake:
    Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the crescent roll dough is golden brown and cooked through.
  8. Serve:
    Allow the bake to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, topped with sour cream and garnished with fresh cilantro or green onions if desired.

Tips for Success:

  • Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the meat mixture for an extra kick.
  • Veggie variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or diced tomatoes for added nutrition.
  • Make ahead: You can prepare the meat mixture in advance and assemble the dish just before baking.

Recommendations:

  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
  • Freezing: This dish can be frozen before baking. Assemble it in the baking dish, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
  • Serving suggestions: Pair with a fresh salad or tortilla chips and guacamole for a complete meal.

Nutrition (per serving, approx. based on 8 servings):

  • Calories: 320
  • Protein: 18 g
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Carbohydrates: 22 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 700 mg

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