Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos

Introduction

When it comes to comfort food, few combinations can rival the classic duo of pizza and tacos. Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm tortilla filled with all the savory goodness of a meat lovers pizza—ground beef, pepperoni, sausage, and cheese, all wrapped up in one delicious package. That’s exactly what these Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos deliver! My family couldn’t get enough of them during our last taco night, and the kids were thrilled to eat their favorite foods in a whole new way. This recipe has quickly become a family favorite, perfect for a fun dinner or a casual gathering with friends.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup chopped pepperoni
• 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
• 1/2 cup sliced sausage
• 1/2 cup pizza sauce
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup sliced black olives
• 1/4 cup diced green bell pepper
• 1/4 cup diced red onion
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small tortillas

Instructions

1. Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.

2. Add Meats and Veggies

To the cooked ground beef, add the chopped pepperoni, crumbled bacon, sliced sausage, diced green bell pepper, and diced red onion. Stir in the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the flavors are well combined.

3. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your tortillas are warmed properly before assembly.

4. Warm the Tortillas

Place the tortillas on a baking sheet and warm them in the preheated oven for 2-3 minutes, just until they become soft and pliable. This makes them easier to fill and fold.

5. Assemble the Tacos

Spread a layer of pizza sauce on each tortilla, then spoon the meat mixture into the center. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and sliced black olives.

6. Bake

Return the tacos to the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Serve

Garnish with fresh herbs or additional toppings like extra olives or diced vegetables. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8 tacos
• Calories: Approximately 350 calories per taco
• Total Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 80mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 18g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve the tacos hot, right out of the oven.
• Pair with sides like:
• Fresh salad
• Guacamole
• Salsa
• Sour cream
• Offer additional toppings for customization, such as:
• Chopped cilantro
• Diced tomatoes
• Jalapeños

Additional Tips

1. Make it Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
2. Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with lentils or textured vegetable protein for a vegetarian version.
3. Cheese Variations: Try using a blend of cheeses, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, for extra flavor.
4. Make Ahead: Prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the tacos.
5. Garnish: Fresh basil or oregano can elevate the flavor profile and add a pop of color.

Recipe Variations

• BBQ Chicken Pizza Tacos: Swap the ground beef for shredded BBQ chicken and use BBQ sauce instead of pizza sauce.
• Veggie Lovers Tacos: Load the tacos with an assortment of grilled vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers, omitting the meat.
• Buffalo Style: Use ground chicken or beef with buffalo sauce for a spicy twist, topped with blue cheese.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a refreshing drink, such as:
• Iced tea
• Lemonade
• A light beer
• Add a simple dessert to round out the meal, such as:
• Brownies
• Fruit salad
• Ice cream

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze the taco filling for up to three months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
• Storage: Store leftover assembled tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispness of the tortillas.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use other types of meat?

• Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match with your favorite meats like turkey or chicken.

1. What if I don’t have tortillas?

• You can use pita bread, flatbreads, or even make a pizza crust.

1. Can I make these tacos ahead of time?

• Yes, prepare the filling ahead of time and assemble just before baking.

1. Are these tacos gluten-free?

• Use gluten-free tortillas and ensure your sausage and pizza sauce are also gluten-free.

1. How do I reheat leftover tacos?

• Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.

1. What other toppings can I add?

• Consider adding arugula, avocado slices, or feta cheese for additional flavor.

1. Is it possible to make this dish healthier?

• Use leaner meats, low-fat cheese, and whole-grain tortillas for a healthier twist.

1. Can I cook the filling in a slow cooker?

• Yes, brown the meat first, then combine with other ingredients and cook on low for 4-6 hours.

1. What type of cheese is best?

• Mozzarella is traditional, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses that melt well.

1. How spicy can I make these tacos?

• Adjust the spice level by adding fresh jalapeños or using spicy sausage.

Conclusion

Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos are not just a meal; they are an experience. The combination of flavors and textures makes them a hit at any table, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings. The best part is their versatility—whether you want to keep it classic or mix in some unexpected twists, the options are endless. So next time you’re craving pizza or tacos, why not combine the two? Your taste buds will thank you!

Print