Best Taco Pizza Recipe: Bold, Spicy, and Delicious

Name: Best Taco Pizza
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 cup warm water; 1 teaspoon sugar; 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast; 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey; 1 packet taco seasoning; 1/2 cup refried beans (optional); 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend); 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1 cup shredded lettuce; 1/2 cup sliced black olives; 1/2 cup diced onions; sliced jalapeños (to taste); 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt; salsa or guacamole (for topping)

When the craving for both pizza and tacos strikes, what do you do? You whip up a taco pizza that embodies the best of both worlds. This delightful dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual showstopper, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner. Let’s dive into this bold, spicy, and delicious taco pizza recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why Make This Recipe

What sets this taco pizza apart from traditional options? Here are a few highlights:

It combines the comforting elements of pizza with the vibrant flavors of taco night, delivering a one-of-a-kind experience.
This recipe is customizable, allowing you to mix and match toppings according to your family’s preferences.
It’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor, making it an ideal choice for those busy evenings when you need a meal on the table in no time.

Simple Way to Prepare Taco Pizza

No more ordering takeout. This homemade taco pizza is simple to prepare and bursting with flavor. Follow these steps to create your very own taco pizza, and you’ll be serving up smiles in no time.

Step 1: Prepare the Pizza Dough

Begin by preheating your oven to 475°F (245°C). As your oven warms up, grab a mixing bowl and combine 1 cup of warm water with 1 teaspoon of sugar and 1 packet of active dry yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons). Give it a quick stir and let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This foamy mixture indicates that your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.

Next, add 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt to the yeast mixture, followed by 2 tablespoons of olive oil. It’s time to get your hands a little messy; knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 to 7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Once kneaded, place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise for about 1 hour, allowing it to double in size.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

While the dough is rising, it’s the perfect time to prepare the savory taco filling. In a skillet over medium heat, cook 1 pound of ground beef (or ground turkey, if you prefer) until it’s browned and crumbled. Drain any excess grease, then stir in 1 packet of taco seasoning and a splash of water. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Set aside once done.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

After the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface until it’s about 1/4 inch thick. Transfer the rolled-out dough into a greased baking dish, ensuring it fits well and covers the corners.

Step 4: Assemble the Pizza

To build your taco pizza, spread a thin layer of refried beans (optional) over the surface of the dough. This acts as a creamy base and adds extra flavor. Next, sprinkle the seasoned ground beef evenly across the beans, followed by 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese (or a delicious Mexican blend for an extra kick).

Step 5: Bake the Pizza

Slide your pizza into the preheated oven and bake for about 12 to 15 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the crust reaches a golden brown hue and the cheese is bubbly. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will surely whet your appetite.

Step 6: Add Fresh Toppings

Once the pizza is out of the oven, allow it to cool for about 5 minutes. This will help with the assembly of fresh toppings. Top off your pizza with 1 cup of diced tomatoes, 1 cup of shredded lettuce, 1/2 cup of sliced black olives, and 1/2 cup of diced onions. For those who love heat, a sprinkle of sliced jalapeños will add that extra spice.

Finally, drizzle 1/2 cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt (for a healthier option) and a generous amount of salsa or guacamole all over the top. Slice your taco pizza into pieces and enjoy every fulfilling bite.

Keeping Taco Pizza Fresh

To make sure your taco pizza remains a delicious treat even after it’s been served, follow these storage guidelines:

Refrigerate leftover pizza in an airtight container for about 3 to 4 days.
For longer storage, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheat individual slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or in the microwave for a quick fix.

Serving Suggestions for Taco Pizza

The versatility of taco pizza knows no bounds, and there are plenty of creative ways to serve and enjoy this dish. Here are some ideas to elevate your taco pizza night:

Themed Dinner Parties: Pair your taco pizza with classic Mexican sides like elote (Mexican street corn) or a refreshing corn salad. Throw in some margaritas for an authentic touch.
Movie Night Snack: Cut the taco pizza into bite-sized pieces for a fun family movie night snack that everyone can enjoy.
Salad Pairing: Serve your pizza with a vibrant Mexican chopped salad on the side for a healthy balance of flavors.
Taco Bar: Create a DIY taco bar by presenting a variety of toppings, including guacamole, pico de gallo, and different types of cheese. Let everyone customize their slices.

Tips to Make Taco Pizza

Do not skip the dough rise: Giving the dough sufficient time to rise makes a world of difference in the texture and taste of your crust.
Feel free to swap toppings: Experiment with proteins like grilled chicken or use beans for a vegetarian version.
Maximize flavor: Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged shredded cheese for a creamier melt.
Avoid soggy bottoms: Spread a slight layer of sauce or beans to prevent the crust from getting soggy, allowing it to maintain crispy edges.

Variations or Substitutions

For a healthier alternative, consider using cauliflower crust, which is lower in carbohydrates and perfect for those who may be gluten-free.
If you’re looking to change up the flavor profile, try switching the ground beef or turkey for chorizo for an extra kick of spice.

FAQs About Taco Pizza

Q: Can I make taco pizza ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble and bake the pizza when you’re ready to serve.

Q: Can I use different proteins?

A: Yes, feel free to use chicken, turkey, or even shredded pork. For a vegetarian version, black beans or lentils work wonderfully.

Q: How do I make it spicier?

Use spicy taco seasoning.
Add diced fresh jalapeños.
Top with a drizzle of hot sauce.

Q: Can I make the dough gluten-free?

A: Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that your active dry yeast is also gluten-free.

As you embark on the journey to create this taco pizza, let your creativity shine. The beauty of this dish lies not only in its delicious flavors but also in its ability to adapt to various personalities in the kitchen—each pizza a story waiting to be told, slice by slice. Enjoy your culinary adventure and the bright flavors that come with it!

Best Taco Pizza Recipe

Best Taco Pizza Recipe: Bold, Spicy, and Delicious

Why Make This Recipe