Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos

This playful meat lovers pizza taco recipe is perfect for anyone torn between two classic comfort foods. With all the bold flavors of a supreme pizza wrapped up in a handheld tortilla, this makes weeknight dinners or game day snacking a breeze.

The melty cheese and savory meats instantly hooked my family. After the first batch, these tacos became our go to treat for Friday movie nights and backyard parties.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: adds hearty protein and depth so look for eighty five percent lean for the right balance
• Diced pepperoni: boosts that classic pizza bite choose a brand that crisps up nicely
• Cooked bacon: brings saltiness and crunch opt for thicker cut if possible
• Sliced sausage: provides more texture and spice fully cooked Italian sausage works best
• Bell pepper: introduces color and sweetness pick one that feels firm and glossy
• Red onion: adds a hint of tang and color select a small one with shiny skin
• Garlic powder and Italian seasoning: infuse everything with familiar herby aroma
• Salt and pepper: heighten all the other flavors
• Pizza sauce: binds things together with zesty tomato flavor use a jarred sauce you’d enjoy on pizza
• Shredded mozzarella: melts perfectly and offers that gooey satisfaction buy a block and shred for best results
• Black olives: finish things with a briny kick go for ones with a deep black sheen
• Tortillas: make the taco shell choose soft taco medium size and warm them for flexibility

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Meat:

In a large skillet cook ground beef over medium heat until fully browned this may take six to eight minutes break up with a spoon as it cooks for even texture Drain off most of the fat for a less greasy filling

Combine Meats and Vegetables:

Add diced pepperoni crumbled bacon sliced sausage bell pepper red onion garlic powder Italian seasoning salt and pepper to the skillet Stir and cook for at least five minutes until vegetables have softened and flavors marry Stir occasionally to prevent burning

Warm the Tortillas:

Preheat oven to three hundred fifty degrees Place tortillas on a baking sheet and heat for about two to three minutes just until soft They should be warm and pliable not crispy

Layer the Sauce:

Remove warm tortillas from the oven and spread each with a thin layer of pizza sauce This helps keep the meat filling juicy

Fill and Top:

Spoon meat mixture onto each tortilla Divide evenly and press down slightly Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and sliced black olives over the top

Bake to Finish:

Return tacos to the oven on the same baking sheet Bake for an additional five to seven minutes until the cheese is melty and edges of tortillas are golden

Rest and Serve:

Let tacos sit for a minute This allows the flavors to meld and makes them easier to handle Enjoy immediately for maximum cheese pull

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My favorite part about these tacos is the way the pepperoni caramelizes during the final bake Every time we make this dish laughter fills the kitchen as everyone builds their own and piles on the cheese

Storage Tips

Store any leftover filling separately from tortillas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave before assembling more tacos Tortillas keep best wrapped in a clean towel at room temperature and filled fresh for each meal Freezing is possible for the filling just cool fully first

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap out ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter version Use turkey pepperoni or vegetarian sausage if serving dietary needs For a spicier taco slice in some jalapenos Try a different cheese such as cheddar or provolone for a twist or swap in a gluten free tortilla if required

Serving Suggestions

Serve these tacos with a side of warm marinara for dipping A simple green salad or roasted vegetables balances the richness Pickled vegetables or pepperoncini add a fresh tang Try offering a taco bar so everyone can add their favorite pizza toppings from mushrooms to pineapple

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Cultural Notes

This dish marries two icons of Italian and Mexican American food blurring the lines in a fun way Pizza tacos started appearing in food trucks and home kitchens as a playful answer to cravings for both foods at once The appeal is universal thanks to familiar flavors and easy assembly

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use different types of meat?

Yes, you can substitute or add meats like chicken, turkey, or vegetarian sausage according to preference.

→ How do I prevent the tortillas from getting soggy?

Warming the tortillas before assembly and serving soon after baking helps keep them crisp.

→ Is it possible to make these ahead of time?

The meat mixture can be prepared in advance, but assemble and bake the tacos just before serving for best texture.

→ Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely. Feel free to include mushrooms, jalapeños, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.

→ What cheese alternatives work well in this dish?

Try provolone, cheddar, or a plant-based mozzarella as substitutes for classic mozzarella.