Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos

Introduction

If you’re a fan of both pizza and tacos (and who isn’t?), then you’re in for a treat with these Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos. This recipe combines the best of both worlds, with crispy flour tortillas stuffed with a hearty mix of savory meats, melty cheese, and zesty pizza sauce. The blend of ground beef, Italian sausage, and pepperoni creates a flavorful and satisfying taco filling, while the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses melt into a delicious gooey topping. As a family that loves pizza nights, this fun twist on traditional tacos became an instant favorite. The whole family loved how easy it was to prepare, and the tacos were so filling that we barely had room for dessert! With only a few ingredients and less than 30 minutes to cook, these pizza tacos are a great weeknight meal that will impress everyone at the dinner table. They’re flavorful, customizable, and sure to become a regular on our menu.

Ingredients

For the Pizza Tacos:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 lb Italian sausage, crumbled
• 1/2 lb pepperoni slices
• 1/2 cup sliced black olives
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup pizza sauce
• 8 small flour tortillas
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Garnish:

• Fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Meat:
   In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage until fully browned. Stir occasionally to break up the meat into small pieces. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
   Add the dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the meat mixture. Stir to combine and let the spices meld with the meat for about 1-2 minutes.
2. Prepare the Tacos:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce on each flour tortilla, making sure to cover the entire surface evenly.
   Evenly distribute the cooked meat mixture over the tortillas, followed by the pepperoni slices and black olives. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese on top.
3. Bake the Tacos:
   Place the prepared tortillas on a baking sheet and bake them in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the tortillas are crispy and golden.
4. Garnish and Serve:
   Remove the taco pizzas from the oven and let them cool slightly.
   Garnish with freshly chopped basil leaves, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, and a dash of red pepper flakes if desired.
   Cut each pizza taco into wedges and serve warm.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: 450 kcal
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 27 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve as a Family Dinner: These pizza tacos make a fun and hearty meal for the whole family. Serve them with a simple green salad on the side to balance out the rich, savory flavors.
• As a Party Appetizer: Cut the tacos into smaller wedges and serve them as finger food at parties or gatherings. They’re perfect for sharing!
• For Game Day: These tacos are ideal for game day or any casual get-together. Pair them with your favorite dip, like guacamole or sour cream, for a fun and tasty snack.
• For Leftovers: These tacos reheat well, so store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Simply reheat in the oven for a few minutes to crisp them up again.
• As a Quick Lunch: Leftover pizza tacos make a great quick lunch. Just heat them in the microwave or oven and enjoy!

Additional Tips

1. Use Homemade Pizza Sauce: If you have time, making your own pizza sauce with crushed tomatoes, garlic, and Italian seasoning can elevate the flavor of these tacos even more.
2. Customize the Meat: Feel free to use any combination of meats you prefer. Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef and sausage for a lighter option.
3. Make It Spicy: Add some sliced jalapeños or sprinkle red pepper flakes on top before baking for an extra spicy kick.
4. Use Whole Wheat Tortillas: If you want a healthier twist, swap the flour tortillas for whole wheat tortillas.
5. Experiment with Cheese: While mozzarella and cheddar are classic choices, you can experiment with different cheeses like provolone, gouda, or pepper jack for more flavor.

Recipe Variations

1. Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian version of these pizza tacos, omit the meat and load up on extra vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions. You can also add a bit of ricotta or goat cheese for extra creaminess.
2. Gluten-Free Version: To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free tortillas. You can also make your own pizza sauce if you need to ensure the sauce is gluten-free.
3. BBQ Chicken Pizza Tacos: Swap the ground beef and sausage for shredded cooked chicken and top with BBQ sauce instead of pizza sauce for a fun twist on the original.
4. Buffalo Chicken Pizza Tacos: For a spicy, tangy version, use shredded buffalo chicken in place of the traditional meats and drizzle with ranch or blue cheese dressing after baking.
5. Meatball Pizza Tacos: Add small meatballs to the tacos instead of ground beef for a hearty, satisfying variation.

Serving Suggestions

• With a Side of Garlic Bread: Serve these pizza tacos with some warm garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks for the ultimate pizza-inspired meal.
• Pair with a Fresh Salad: A crisp Caesar or mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will complement the richness of the pizza tacos perfectly.
• For a Spicy Kick: Serve with hot sauce, ranch dressing, or a spicy marinara dipping sauce to add an extra layer of flavor.
• With Sweet Potato Fries: Pair these tacos with crispy sweet potato fries for a savory and slightly sweet side dish.
• Pair with a Cold Drink: These pizza tacos go great with a cold beer or a soda, making them perfect for a casual dinner or gathering.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: If you have leftovers or want to make a big batch ahead of time, pizza tacos freeze well. After baking, let the tacos cool completely and then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes or until hot and crispy.
• Storing Leftovers: Store leftover pizza tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the oven to keep the tortillas crispy.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the taco fillings ahead of time. Store the cooked meat mixture, cheese, and sauce separately in the refrigerator, then assemble and bake when ready to serve.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different kind of tortilla?
   Yes, you can use corn tortillas or even gluten-free tortillas as a substitute for flour tortillas.
2. Can I use store-bought pizza sauce?
   Absolutely! Store-bought pizza sauce works perfectly, but you can also make your own to control the flavors.
3. Can I freeze the taco filling?
   Yes, you can freeze the taco filling (meat mixture and cheese) for later use. Just make sure it’s cooled completely before freezing.
4. Can I make these pizza tacos vegetarian?
   Yes, just omit the meats and add your favorite veggies, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives.
5. How long will these pizza tacos last in the fridge?
   They can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
6. Can I use different cheeses?
   Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses like provolone, gouda, or even blue cheese for a unique flavor.
7. Can I use spicy sausage?
   If you like spice, feel free to use spicy sausage or hot pepperoni slices.
8. Can I serve these tacos with a side dish?
   Yes! They pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or even roasted vegetables.
9. Can I make these tacos in advance?
   Yes, you can prepare them ahead of time and bake them when ready. Just don’t add the cheese until you’re ready to bake to prevent it from becoming too soft.
10. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
    Reheat pizza tacos in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore the crispiness of the tortillas and melt the cheese.

Conclusion

These Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos are a fun and delicious way to enjoy your favorite pizza flavors in a new, exciting format. With savory meats, gooey cheese, and a crispy tortilla shell, they’re sure to be a hit at your next dinner, party, or family gathering. Plus, they’re easy to make and customize to suit your preferences, whether you want extra heat, a veggie version, or a different cheese combination. Try them today and enjoy a flavorful twist on your typical taco night!

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