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Taco Pizza is the easiest way to bring together two family favorites into one dinner that always gets rave reviews at my house. Perfect for busy weeknights or when leftover taco fixings are begging for a second act, this recipe gives you the best of crispy-chewy pizza and seasoned taco goodness all in one slice.
The first time I made this was after a big taco night when the fridge was loaded with leftovers and not much inspiration. It turned out to be such a hit that my family started requesting Taco Pizza more than classic tacos or pizza by itself.
Ingredients
- Pizza dough: Fresh dough makes the best chewy base Consider homemade or look for high quality refrigerated types in the bakery section
- Lean ground beef: Look for 90 percent lean meat to avoid extra grease Select bright red beef for freshness
- Taco seasoning mix: Choose your favorite blend or make your own for extra flavor control
- Refried beans: Go for smooth and creamy ones Check labels to be sure you get real pinto beans and minimal additives
- Shredded Colby Jack cheese: Melts perfectly and gives a mild tang Grate your own if you want the best melt
- Diced tomato: Adds color and freshness Look for ripe but still firm tomatoes so they do not get mushy when baking
- Sliced black olives: Adds briny punch Choose pitted olives for convenience
- Green onion: Gives a fresh pop and crunch Pick bunches with crisp green tops
- Sour cream: For creamy finishing swirl Go for full fat for the best flavor
- Salsa: Adds zest and finishes off with a classic taco touch Choose chunky or smooth depending on your texture preference
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- Let your dough rest for 15 to 20 minutes at room temperature for easier stretching Grease a 12 by 17 inch baking sheet well then stretch the dough evenly to fit the pan Press it into the corners and prick all over with a fork so it will not bubble
- Cook and Season the Beef:
- In a large skillet cook the ground beef over medium heat breaking it up with a sturdy spoon Stir and cook for about 8 to 10 minutes until browned and cooked through Drain off any excess grease Sprinkle the taco seasoning evenly over the beef Add a splash of water and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until thick and fully flavored
- Spread the Beans:
- Warm the refried beans in a saucepan or microwave just until spreadable Use a large offset spatula to smooth them evenly over the stretched dough covering right up to the edges
- Assemble the Toppings:
- Scatter the seasoned beef over the bean layer Use your hands to ensure even distribution Top generously with shredded Colby Jack cheese Sprinkle on diced tomatoes and sliced black olives pressing them lightly into the cheese so they stick
- Bake the Pizza:
- Slide the pan into a preheated 450 degree oven Bake for 16 to 18 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling and starting to brown around some edges Rotate the pan halfway through baking for even color
- Finish and Serve:
- Let the pizza rest 5 to 10 minutes before slicing This helps set the cheese and avoids burnt fingers Sprinkle chopped green onion over the top Dollop with sour cream and spoon on salsa just before serving Cut into squares and enjoy the fiesta
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I am always amazed how the green onions add a finishing touch I started tossing them on at the end because my youngest would only eat them raw and now I cannot imagine Taco Pizza without that fresh bite It reminds me of so many hands fighting to be the first to get an edge piece fresh out of the oven
Storage Tips
Let leftover pizza cool to room temperature before slicing and storing for best texture Use an airtight container or a large zip top bag Layer parchment or wax paper between pieces to prevent sticking Pizza is good in the refrigerator for up to two days For reheating skip the microwave if you want a crisp bite and use an air fryer or toaster oven for a few minutes
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap ground turkey or even shredded rotisserie chicken for the beef if you want variety Veggie lovers can use sautéed onions bell peppers or beans Try Monterey Jack or cheddar for a cheese change Refried black beans work just as well as traditional pinto beans
Serving Suggestions
Serve Taco Pizza at the table with bowls of extra salsa jalapenos chopped cilantro and avocado slices That way everyone can top their own piece just like a taco This is a bright colorful dinner for game night parties or a weekend treat Serve with a tossed green salad or tortilla chips on the side
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Cultural Context
Taco Pizza is a great mashup of Mexican flavors layered onto a classic American pie No surprise it came from the Midwest where creative uses for leftovers rule the kitchen It brings together family favorites in a fun way and is all about making dinnertime exciting and relaxed
Commonly Asked Questions
- → What toppings work best for this pizza?
Seasoned ground beef, refried beans, Colby-Jack cheese, diced tomatoes, black olives, green onions, salsa, and sour cream are classic choices. You can personalize it with your favorite taco-inspired toppings for extra flavor and variety.
- → How do I keep the crust from getting soggy?
Drain the ground beef thoroughly after cooking and warm the refried beans before spreading to make the assembly smoother and avoid soggy crust.
- → Can I use store-bought dough?
Absolutely! Refrigerated or fresh dough both work well. Preheat the oven according to the dough package for best results.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Allow the pizza to cool, cut it into squares, and store in an airtight container or ziplock bag in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- → What's the best way to reheat?
Microwave for convenience or air fry for a crispier crust. Avoid reheating multiple times for the best texture.
- → Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Use seasoned beans, grilled veggies, or meat substitutes in place of ground beef for a vegetarian-friendly version.