crustless taco pie

Introduction
Crustless taco pie is a savory, flavorful dish that offers all the satisfying tastes of tacos without the need for a crust or tortilla base. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, it blends seasoned ground beef, cheese, eggs, and vegetables into a hearty and protein-packed meal. This low-carb alternative to traditional taco dishes is versatile, customizable, and a hit with both kids and adults alike. Its cheesy, spiced goodness delivers a comforting yet exciting twist on tacos that can be prepared in one dish with minimal effort.

The History of Crustless Taco Pie
While traditional tacos trace their origins to Mexico, where indigenous peoples first created dishes using corn tortillas filled with various meats, taco pie is a more recent North American innovation. It takes the beloved taco concept and transforms it into a baked, layered dish reminiscent of casseroles or quiches. The crustless variation caters to modern dietary trends focused on low-carb, gluten-free, and keto-friendly meals. This adaptation removes the tortilla or pie crust for a lighter version that maintains the core flavors of a classic taco. Crustless taco pie has gained popularity as part of meal prep routines and family-friendly recipes that prioritize flavor, simplicity, and nutrition.

Ingredients Breakdown

• Ground Beef: The primary protein, offering a rich, savory base.
• Onion and Garlic: Add aromatic depth and enhance the flavor profile.
• Taco Seasoning: A blend of spices like chili powder, cumin, and paprika for classic taco flavor.
• Eggs: Help bind the pie together, creating a firm and cohesive texture.
• Shredded Cheese: Cheddar or Mexican blend cheese adds creaminess and a melty topping.
• Tomatoes or Salsa: Provide moisture, tanginess, and a slight kick of spice.
• Bell Peppers or Jalapeños: Optional additions for extra flavor and heat.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance taste.
• Fresh Cilantro or Green Onions: Brighten the dish and add a fresh garnish.

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a pie dish or baking pan.
2. Cook the Meat: In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened.
3. Season: Stir in taco seasoning and a splash of water. Mix well and simmer until the beef is evenly coated and fragrant.
4. Prepare the Mixture: In a bowl, whisk together eggs. Add cooked beef, half of the cheese, and any additional vegetables or salsa. Stir to combine.
5. Assemble: Pour the mixture into the prepared dish and smooth the top. Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly across the surface.
6. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the center is set and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve: Let the pie cool slightly before garnishing with cilantro or green onions. Slice and serve with sour cream, guacamole, or additional salsa.

Tips for the Perfect Crustless Taco Pie

• Drain excess fat from the cooked beef to prevent a greasy texture.
• Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and a smoother consistency.
• Adjust taco seasoning to taste; homemade blends allow customization of spice levels.
• Let the pie cool for a few minutes to set properly before slicing.
• Pair with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

Variations and Customizations

• Protein Substitutions: Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat for different flavors and dietary preferences.
• Add Beans: Incorporate black beans or pinto beans for extra fiber and heartiness.
• Spice It Up: Include jalapeños or a dash of cayenne for more heat.
• Cheese Alternatives: Try pepper jack, Monterey jack, or a smoky gouda.
• Vegetable Enhancements: Add chopped zucchini, spinach, or corn for more nutrients.

Health Considerations and Nutritional Value
Crustless taco pie is a protein-rich, low-carb dish that fits well into ketogenic and gluten-free diets. Ground beef provides essential nutrients like iron and zinc, while eggs contribute protein and healthy fats. Cheese adds calcium and flavor but also increases the saturated fat content. To make a lighter version, opt for lean ground meat, reduce the amount of cheese, or use reduced-fat cheese. Adding vegetables boosts fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a more balanced meal. For sodium control, use a homemade taco seasoning blend.

FAQ

• Can I make it ahead? Yes, prepare the mixture and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for the best texture.
• How do I store leftovers? Cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
• Can I freeze it? Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
• What can I serve with it? Sour cream, guacamole, and a simple green salad make excellent accompaniments.
• Is it keto-friendly? Yes, the recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates and suitable for a ketogenic diet.

crustless taco pie

Crustless taco pie delivers bold taco flavors in a low-carb, gluten-free form, perfect for a quick, satisfying meal. Simple to make and endlessly customizable, it’s a crowd-pleaser that combines convenience with deliciousness.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings 8

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound of ground beef 80/20
• 3 tablespoons of taco seasoning DIY version or sugar-free store-bought
• 2/3 cup of heavy whipping cream
• 4 large eggs
• 1/3 cup of chunky salsa
• 1 1/4 cups of shredded cheddar cheese freshly shredded
• 1/2 teaspoon of garlic salt or salt and garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper

Instructions

 

• Preheat the oven to 350°F and position the rack in the center. Grease a 9-inch pie pan and set it aside.
• In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, adding a little oil if necessary to prevent sticking, until fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.
• Stir in the taco seasoning with the cooked beef, mixing well. Transfer the seasoned beef into the prepared pie pan.
• In a small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and eggs. Add the salsa, 1 cup of shredded cheese, garlic salt, and pepper, stirring until combined.
• Pour the egg mixture evenly over the taco beef in the pie pan. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of shredded cheese on top.
• Bake the crustless taco pie uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
• Allow the pie to cool for 5 minutes before serving.
• Add your favorite garnishes, such as sour cream, salsa, cilantro, chives, avocado, diced tomatoes, or olives, if desired. Enjoy!

Notes

To make the recipe lighter, reduce the amount of cheddar cheese or substitute ground turkey or ground chicken for the beef.
Shredding cheddar cheese from a block is preferable to using pre-shredded cheese, as the latter contains added potato starch to prevent clumping and has a higher carb content.
Some readers have successfully doubled the recipe by increasing the baking time by 8-10 minutes, although this variation has not been personally tested.