Taco night just got a delicious makeover with this Sheet Pan Taco Bake. Imagine a flaky puff pastry base topped with seasoned ground beef, melted cheddar cheese, and fresh taco toppings, all baked to perfection. It’s a delightful fusion of taco flavors and the satisfying crunch of pastry, making it a perfect weeknight dinner or party dish. This recipe is as easy as it is fun, and it’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

There’s something incredibly comforting about the familiar flavors of a taco combined with the novelty of a sheet pan bake. The puff pastry creates a buttery, flaky crust that holds all the savory goodness of ground beef seasoned with taco spices. Once baked, it’s topped with crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, tangy black olives, and a generous drizzle of ranch or sour cream. This dish is a celebration of textures and tastes, making every bite a delightful experience. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1 refrigerated puff pastry sheet
• 1 lb. ground beef
• 1/4 cup onion, chopped
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 cup water
• 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 1/2 cups green lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup black olives, sliced
• 1 cup cocktail tomatoes, sliced
• 1/4 cup ranch dressing or sour cream

Preparation

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper and set it aside.
2. Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the chopped onion. Once the beef is browned and the onions are translucent, add the taco seasoning, garlic powder, and paprika. Pour in the cup of water and let the mixture simmer until the water has mostly evaporated.
3. Add Cheese: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the beef mixture until well combined and melted.
4. Prepare the Puff Pastry: Roll out the puff pastry onto the prepared sheet pan. Use a fork to pierce the pastry in several places to prevent it from puffing up too much. Roll the edges slightly to create a crust around the pastry.
5. Assemble and Bake: Spoon the beef mixture evenly over the puff pastry. Place the sheet pan in the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes.
6. Top and Serve: Once cooled slightly, top the baked puff pastry with chopped lettuce, sliced black olives, and cocktail tomatoes. Sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Drizzle with ranch dressing or sour cream. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips and Variations

• Meat Variations: You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with a mixture of black beans and corn seasoned with taco spices.
• Spicy Kick: Add some diced jalapeños to the beef mixture for an extra spicy taco bake.
• Cheese Options: Try using a Mexican blend cheese or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.

FAQs

1. Can I prepare this dish in advance? Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake the taco bake just before serving.
2. How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
3. Can I use a different type of pastry? Absolutely! You can use crescent roll dough or even a pizza dough as a base for this recipe.
4. What other toppings can I use? Feel free to get creative with toppings. Avocado slices, salsa, chopped cilantro, or even a sprinkle of cotija cheese would be great additions.

This Sheet Pan Taco Bake is a fun and delicious twist on traditional tacos, bringing together the best of both worlds in one easy-to-make dish. The combination of savory beef, melted cheese, fresh veggies, and creamy dressing all atop a flaky puff pastry is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a crowd-pleaser for your next gathering, this recipe is a winner. Enjoy the simplicity and rich flavors, and make taco night an even more delightful experience!