Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Prep and bake
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and place a sheet pan on the middle rack so it heats with the oven.
- Press the refrigerated pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish, shaping the edges evenly for a clean bake.
- Cook the ground beef and onion in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until browned, with no large pink pockets remaining.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring until fragrant.
- Stir in the taco seasoning and water, scraping up any browned bits so the flavor clings to the beef.
- Add the chunky salsa, diced green chilies, corn kernels, and black beans, then stir until everything is evenly combined.
- Simmer for 5 minutes, until the mixture thickens slightly and looks cohesive rather than watery.
- Remove from the heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese until melted and glossy.
- Spoon the filling into the prepared crust and smooth the top so it bakes evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the top so it melts into a bubbly layer.
- Brush the crust edges with beaten egg to help them brown, using a light, even coat.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes at 375°F (190°C), until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
- Cool for 5 minutes before slicing so the filling sets and slices stay intact.
Garnish and serve
- Top the warm pie with chopped cilantro and green onions for a fresh finish.
- Add sour cream, diced tomatoes, and sliced avocado for creamy, juicy contrast.
- If using jalapeño slices, place them on top to add heat and color.
Notes
For the cleanest slices, let the pie cool for the full 5 minutes, then serve with toppings. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days; reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Freeze yes: freeze slices wrapped tightly for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge. If you want a lighter option, use leaner ground beef (or ground turkey) and reduce the cheese by 1/2 cup.
