Here’s a more detailed breakdown of how to make this Taco Pizza with all the classic taco toppings!
Taco Pizza
Ingredients:
- 6.5-ounce package pizza dough mix (or substitute with homemade or store-bought pizza dough if you prefer)
- 15 ounces refried beans (about 1 can)
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese (or your favorite shredded cheese for tacos)
- 3 cups shredded lettuce
- 2 tomatoes, seeded and chopped
- Optional toppings: taco sauce or salsa, sour cream
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a pizza pan or baking sheet lightly with cooking spray or a little oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Pizza Dough
- In a medium bowl, combine the pizza dough mix with the required amount of water as indicated on the package instructions. Stir until well combined, then cover and let it rest for at least 10 minutes. This allows the dough to become more workable and to rise slightly.
- Cook the Taco Meat
- While the dough is resting, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon or spatula until fully browned and cooked through.
- Sprinkle in the taco seasoning and stir well. If your ground beef is on the fattier side, drain any excess grease before adding the seasoning. Let the meat cook with the seasoning for an additional 2-3 minutes to infuse the flavors. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Assemble the Pizza
- Spread the dough out evenly over the greased pizza pan or baking sheet. Press it out to the edges, forming a slightly raised crust if desired.
- Spread the refried beans in an even layer over the dough, creating a base for the toppings.
- Evenly distribute the seasoned taco meat over the beans.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top, covering the taco meat and beans layer completely.
- Bake
- Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the crust is golden and cooked through, and the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Add Fresh Toppings and Serve
- Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes to make it easier to slice.
- Top the pizza with shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, and any additional toppings you like, such as taco sauce, salsa, or sour cream.
Tips:
- Crust Alternatives: If you prefer a thinner crust, roll out the dough more thinly and bake for slightly less time. For a crispier texture, brush a bit of olive oil around the edges before baking.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the taco meat for extra heat.
- Customization: Feel free to get creative with the toppings! You could add sliced black olives, diced onions, or a drizzle of guacamole for extra taco flavor.
This Taco Pizza combines the best of pizza and tacos, making it a great family meal or party dish. Enjoy!