Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos Delight

This hearty meat lovers pizza taco recipe combines everything you love about pizza with the fun handheld format of tacos. The result is a mouthwatering fusion dish that satisfies both pizza and taco cravings in one delicious meal.

I created this recipe when my kids couldn't decide between pizza night and taco Tuesday. The compromise became our family's most requested dinner, especially when we have friends over to watch football games.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: provides the hearty protein base for these tacos
• Pepperoni: adds that classic pizza flavor and a bit of spice
• Turkey bacon: offers a lighter alternative to traditional bacon while still providing smoky flavor
• Sliced sausage: brings extra richness and texture to the meat mixture
• Pizza sauce: ties everything together with authentic pizza taste
• Mozzarella cheese: creates that stretchy, melty goodness we all love
• Black olives: add a briny contrast to the rich meats
• Bell pepper: provides a fresh crunch and subtle sweetness
• Red onion: gives a sharp aromatic kick that balances the rich meats
• Garlic powder: infuses the entire dish with savory depth
• Italian seasoning: brings in the classic pizza herb profile
• Tortillas: serve as the vehicle for all these delicious toppings

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Beef:

Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until no pink remains, usually about 7 minutes. Break up any large chunks with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Be sure to drain excess fat to avoid greasy tacos.

Add Flavorings:

Incorporate pepperoni, turkey bacon, sausage, bell pepper, onion, and all seasonings into the beef. Allow these ingredients to cook together for a full 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the vegetables soften slightly.

Warm Tortillas:

Preheat oven to 350°F and place tortillas directly on the rack for 2 to 3 minutes. This quick warming makes them pliable and prevents cracking when you fold them. Watch closely as they can quickly become too crisp.

Build the Base:

Remove warmed tortillas and spread about 1 tablespoon of pizza sauce on each, leaving a small border around the edge to prevent dripping. The sauce should be thin enough to spread but thick enough to not make the tortillas soggy.

Add Filling:

Distribute the meat mixture evenly among all tortillas, using about 2 heaping tablespoons per taco. Top with a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and a few olive slices on each.

Melt the Cheese:

Return assembled tacos to the oven for 5 to 7 minutes until cheese is completely melted and starting to bubble. The edges of the tortillas will begin to crisp slightly, giving a nice textural contrast.

Rest Before Serving:

Allow tacos to rest for at least 1 minute before serving. This brief waiting period allows the melted cheese to set slightly and prevents burning your mouth on the hot filling.

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The pepperoni is truly the secret star in this recipe. I discovered this trick when I had leftover pizza toppings in my fridge and needed to make a quick dinner. The way the pepperoni infuses the ground beef with its spicy, savory flavor creates a depth that makes these tacos irresistible.

Make-Ahead Options

These pizza tacos work beautifully as a meal prep option. You can cook the meat mixture up to three days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat the filling in a skillet, warm your tortillas, and assemble. This approach actually allows the flavors to develop even more, making for an even tastier taco.

Serving Suggestions

These pizza tacos pair wonderfully with simple sides that complement without competing with the bold flavors. A crisp green salad with Italian dressing makes for a refreshing contrast. For a more substantial meal, consider serving with garlic bread or a side of marinara for dipping. I sometimes set up a toppings bar with additional cheese, vegetables, and different sauces so everyone can customize their own pizza tacos.

Kid-Friendly Adaptations

This recipe is already a hit with children, but you can make it even more appealing to younger palates with a few adjustments. Consider using mini tortillas for smaller hands and appetites. You can also omit spicier ingredients like pepperoni and replace with milder options such as ham. Let kids help with assembly by setting up a build your own taco station, which makes dinnertime interactive and fun.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What meats are included in Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos?

These tacos feature ground beef, pepperoni, turkey bacon, and sausage for a hearty and flavorful filling.

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or a pizza cheese blend for variety.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a drizzle of hot sauce to the meat mixture or as a topping.

→ What type of tortillas should I use?

Flour tortillas are ideal, but you can also use corn tortillas if preferred or to make them gluten-free.

→ Can I prepare these tacos ahead of time?

You can prepare the meat mixture in advance and assemble the tacos shortly before serving to keep them fresh and delicious.