Crustless Taco Pie (Keto Taco Pie + Low Carb, Gluten Free)

An easy Crustless Taco Pie that makes a quick family favorite meal when you want a variation on traditional tacos. This keto taco pie is also low carb, gluten free, and sugar free, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. The combination of savory ground beef, creamy eggs, and melty cheese creates a delicious dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only about 20 minutes to prep, making it perfect for those busy evenings.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the flavorful layers in this tasty taco pie.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your toppings or swap out the ground beef for turkey or lamb to suit your family’s preferences.
• Low Carb and Keto-Friendly: Enjoy all the flavors of tacos without the carbs, fitting seamlessly into your low-carb lifestyle.
• Easy Clean-Up: With just one pie pan used, clean-up is a breeze after enjoying this delicious meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the essential tools before you start. Having everything at hand will speed up the process and enhance your culinary adventure.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9-inch pie pan
• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• 9-inch pie pan: Perfect for baking your crustless taco pie evenly, ensuring a lovely golden top.
• Skillet: Ideal for browning ground beef quickly while controlling heat levels.
• Mixing bowl: A must-have for combining ingredients smoothly without mess.

Ingredients

For the Filling

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
• 3 T taco seasoning (our DIY version or sugar-free store bought)
• 1/2 tsp garlic salt (or salt + garlic powder)
• 1/4 tsp ground black pepper

For the Egg Mixture

• 2/3 cup heavy whipping cream
• 4 large eggs
• 1/3 cup chunky salsa
• 1 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (shred your own)

How to Make Crustless Taco Pie (Keto Taco Pie + Low Carb, Gluten Free)

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat an oven to 350°F and make sure the oven rack is in the center position. Grease a 9-inch pie pan and set it aside.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a skillet over medium heat:
1. Add ground beef.
2. Cook until browned through, adding oil if needed to prevent sticking.
3. Drain any extra grease.

Step 3: Season the Beef

Add taco seasoning to the skillet with cooked ground beef:
1. Stir well to combine all seasonings with beef.
2. Transfer the seasoned beef mixture into the greased pie pan.

Step 4: Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine heavy cream and eggs using a whisk or fork.
2. Add salsa, 1 cup of shredded cheese, garlic salt, and pepper; mix well.

Step 5: Assemble Your Taco Pie

Pour the egg mixture evenly over the seasoned beef in the pie pan:
1. Top with an additional 1/4 cup of shredded cheese.

Step 6: Bake

Place in preheated oven:
1. Bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes until center is set and top is golden brown.

Step 7: Cool Before Serving

Allow your crustless taco pie to cool for about 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Step 8: Garnish If Desired

Top with optional garnishes like sour cream, salsa, cilantro, chives, avocado, diced tomatoes, or olives for an extra flavor kick. Enjoy!

How to Serve Crustless Taco Pie (Keto Taco Pie + Low Carb, Gluten Free)

Serving your crustless taco pie is as fun as making it! This dish pairs well with a variety of toppings and sides that enhance its flavor and texture.

Classic Toppings

• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and tang that complements the spices.
• Guacamole – Fresh avocado mash brings a creamy texture and healthy fats to the dish.
• Chopped Cilantro – A sprinkle of cilantro adds freshness and a burst of flavor.

Salsas

• Pico de Gallo – This fresh salsa made from diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro adds crunch and acidity.
• Mango Salsa – A sweet and spicy mango salsa can elevate your taco pie with a tropical twist.

Fresh Vegetables

• Diced Tomatoes – Fresh tomatoes add juiciness and a refreshing bite when served on top.
• Chopped Chives – These mild onion-flavored herbs provide a lovely garnish with added color.

Additional Options

• Olives – Sliced olives bring salty richness that contrasts nicely with the flavors of the taco pie.
• Pickled Jalapeños – For those who enjoy heat, pickled jalapeños add an exciting kick.

How to Perfect Crustless Taco Pie (Keto Taco Pie + Low Carb, Gluten Free)

To achieve the best crustless taco pie, follow these simple tips. They can help enhance flavor and ensure perfect texture every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and high-quality ground beef make a significant difference in taste.
• Customize Seasonings – Feel free to adjust the taco seasoning according to your spice preference for a personal touch.
• Let It Cool Before Serving – Allowing the pie to cool for a few minutes helps it set better for easy slicing.
• Experiment with Cheese Types – Try different cheeses like pepper jack for extra flavor or mozzarella for a milder option.

Best Side Dishes for Crustless Taco Pie (Keto Taco Pie + Low Carb, Gluten Free)

Pairing side dishes with your crustless taco pie can create a complete meal experience. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Cauliflower Rice – Lightly seasoned cauliflower rice serves as a low-carb base that complements the pie well.
2. Zucchini Noodles – Spiralized zucchini tossed in olive oil provides a fresh, crunchy side dish.
3. Mexican Street Corn Salad – This salad features corn, lime, spices, and cheese for a vibrant addition to your meal.
4. Avocado Salad – A simple salad of diced avocados, lime juice, and cilantro is refreshing and creamy.
5. Cabbage Slaw – Crunchy cabbage slaw with lime dressing adds texture and brightness alongside the rich pie.
6. Green Beans Almondine – Sautéed green beans with almonds offer a nutty contrast that enhances your dining experience.
7. Roasted Bell Peppers – Sweet roasted bell peppers provide color and sweetness that balance the savory pie flavors.
8. Spinach Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette – A fresh spinach salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette rounds out your meal beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your crustless taco pie, it’s easy to overlook details. Here are some common mistakes to watch for.

• Using the wrong ground meat: Opt for lean ground beef (80/20) for the best flavor and texture. Avoid overly fatty meat, which can make the dish greasy.
• Skipping the seasoning: Taco seasoning is essential for flavor. If you don’t have store-bought, use a mix of chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder for a homemade version.
• Not greasing the pan properly: A well-greased pie pan prevents sticking. Use cooking spray or oil to coat the bottom and sides thoroughly.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on your crustless taco pie as it bakes. Overbaking can lead to a dry dish; aim for a golden top and set center.
• Ignoring garnishes: Garnishes like avocado, salsa, or cilantro enhance flavor and presentation. Don’t skip this step for a more appealing meal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Enjoy within 3 to 4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Crustless Taco Pie (Keto Taco Pie + Low Carb, Gluten Free)

• Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating Crustless Taco Pie (Keto Taco Pie + Low Carb, Gluten Free)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 1-2 minutes or until warm.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, covering with a lid until warm throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making crustless taco pie.

Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is an excellent substitute that still keeps the dish flavorful while being lower in fat.

How can I customize my Crustless Taco Pie?

Feel free to add bell peppers, onions, or olives into the meat mixture for added texture and flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This Crustless Taco Pie is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and reheats easily.

What should I serve with my crustless taco pie?

Pair it with a fresh salad or some low-carb veggies to create a balanced meal that’s satisfying and nutritious.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or almond milk mixed with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.

Final Thoughts

This crustless taco pie is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or toppings according to your preference. Give this keto-friendly dish a try—it’s bound to become a family favorite!