Pillsbury Crescent Roll Taco

This Pillsbury Crescent Roll Taco is a simple twist on taco night that combines flaky buttery crust with savory, seasoned ground beef and melted cheddar cheese. It bakes quickly into a comforting casserole that is delicious topped with fresh lettuce and tomatoes. The combination of warm, gooey cheese and crisp fresh toppings makes for a satisfying and flavor-packed meal that feels both familiar and fun.

I first made this one evening when I was short on time but wanted something special. Everyone loved how the buttery crust gave a new spin on tacos and now it’s requested regularly at family dinners.

Ingredients

• Pillsbury refrigerated crescent dinner rolls: One 8 ounce can for a flaky buttery crust that crisps beautifully choose fresh cans for best texture and flavor
• Lean ground beef: One pound with at least 80 percent lean for hearty protein that browns well freshly ground if available for best results
• Old El Paso Thick n Chunky salsa: Three quarters cup adds moisture and a flavorful bite to the beef mix look for fresh tubs for brightness
• Old El Paso taco seasoning mix: Two tablespoons from a one ounce package ensures a consistent and balanced taco flavor freshly opened packets work best
• Shredded Cheddar cheese: One cup melts beautifully on top providing gooey richness sharp cheddar offers extra flavor
• Shredded lettuce and diced tomato: Provide fresh crunch and brightness as garnishes pick crisp lettuce and ripe tomatoes for freshness

Instructions

Sculpt the crust:

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Unroll the crescent dough and carefully separate it into eight triangles. Press the dough gently into an ungreased nineinch square pan or teninch pie plate, pressing it so it covers the bottom and the sides. This forms a sturdy crust to hold the taco filling without leaking.

Cook the beef:

Heat a teninch skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook for eight to ten minutes, stirring occasionally to break up the meat. Cook until the beef is fully browned with no pink remaining. Drain any excess fat carefully to avoid greasiness in the final dish.

Add salsa and seasoning:

Stir the Thick n Chunky salsa and taco seasoning into the cooked beef. Lower the heat to maintain a gentle simmer and cook for five minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the mixture to thicken slightly.

Assemble with cheese:

Spoon the beef mixture evenly into the prepared crescent dough crust, spreading it out gently but thoroughly so every bite has filling. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top to ensure it melts with a golden finish.

Bake to golden:

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for twenty to twenty five minutes. The crust should turn deep golden brown, firm but flaky, and the cheese should bubble and fully melt. This step finishes the dish with warmth and texture.

Add fresh toppings and serve:

Remove the dish from the oven and immediately top with shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes to add a crisp coolness against the warm, cheesy taco base. Serve hot for best texture and flavor contrast.

The buttery crust is my favorite part as it adds a comforting texture and rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the spicy beef. One summer evening, this dish brought my whole family together around the table sharing stories and laughs about our best taco adventures.

Storage tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best crust texture or in the microwave if you’re short on time. The oven will keep the crust crisp while the microwave softens it slightly. For longer storage, freeze the baked dish before adding fresh toppings and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Ingredient substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken work well as lighter protein alternatives without losing flavor. For a vegetarian twist, seasoned cooked lentils or black beans can replace the meat. Choose a mild salsa for less spice or a spicier version if you want more heat.

Serving suggestions

Pair with Mexican rice or refried beans for a full taco inspired meal. A side of sour cream or guacamole adds creaminess and balances the spices nicely. A crisp green salad or a corn salad brings additional freshness and color on the plate.

Serve hot with fresh toppings for best texture and flavor. It makes a quick family friendly meal for busy weeknights.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ 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.