Name: Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 8 small flour tortillas; 1/2 lb ground beef; 1/2 lb ground chicken; 1/2 cup pepperoni slices (halved); 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded); 1/2 cup pizza sauce; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper (to taste); 2 tbsp olive oil; Fresh basil (for garnish)

If you’re a fan of both pizza and tacos, the Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos recipe is a must-try fusion of flavors that brings the best of both worlds into one delicious dish. Imagine biting into a soft taco shell filled with savory pizza toppings like ground beef, chicken, pepperoni, and gooey melted mozzarella cheese. These pizza tacos are perfect for a fun family dinner, a gathering with friends, or a quick weeknight meal. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and customizable to suit your preferences. Whether you love a meat-loaded taco or prefer adding veggies, this recipe has something for everyone.

Ingredients:

8 small flour tortillas
1/2 lb ground beef
1/2 lb ground chicken
1/2 cup pepperoni slices (halved)
1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
1/2 cup pizza sauce
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper (to taste)
2 tbsp olive oil
Fresh basil (for garnish)

Preparation:

Step 1:
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and ground chicken to the skillet, breaking the meat apart as it cooks. Season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir frequently, making sure the meat is evenly cooked and browned. This should take about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet and set the meat mixture aside.

Step 2:
While the meat is cooking, warm the tortillas. You can do this by placing them on a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side until they are soft and pliable. Alternatively, you can wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave them for 20-30 seconds.

Step 3:
Spread about 1 tablespoon of pizza sauce over each tortilla, covering it evenly. The pizza sauce adds that signature pizza flavor while serving as a base for the taco fillings.

Step 4:
Divide the cooked ground meat mixture among the tortillas, spooning it evenly over the pizza sauce. Add halved pepperoni slices on top of the meat mixture for an extra layer of flavor.

Step 5:
Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese over each taco. Place the assembled tacos on a baking sheet and set your oven to broil. Broil the tacos for about 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on them to prevent the tortillas from burning.

Step 6:
Once the cheese has melted to perfection, remove the tacos from the oven and garnish them with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and added flavor.

Cooking Note:

If you’re looking to make a vegetarian version of this recipe, you can easily swap the ground meats with plant-based alternatives like soy crumbles or a mixture of beans and mushrooms. You can also experiment with different pizza toppings such as olives, bell peppers, or onions to make the dish more colorful and nutrient-packed.

Serving Suggestions:

These Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos are best served fresh out of the oven, while the cheese is still melted and gooey. Pair them with a side of fresh salad or a bowl of marinara sauce for dipping. They also make a great party appetizer or main course when served alongside chips and salsa, guacamole, or a cold pasta salad.

Tips:

If you’re short on time, you can prepare the meat mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just warm it up when you’re ready to assemble the tacos.
For extra crispy tacos, you can lightly brush the tortillas with olive oil and bake them for a few minutes before adding the toppings.
If you like a bit of spice, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on the tacos before broiling or drizzle them with hot sauce before serving.
Use whole wheat or gluten-free tortillas to fit dietary preferences.

Prep Time:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Calories: 400 kcal
Protein: 20g
Sodium: 850mg (Note: Nutritional values are approximate and will vary based on specific brands and ingredient substitutions.)

FAQs:

Q: Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
A: Yes, corn tortillas can be used for a gluten-free alternative, but keep in mind they may be smaller and less pliable than flour tortillas, so handle them carefully.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can cook the meat and prepare the toppings ahead of time. When you’re ready to serve, simply warm the tortillas, assemble the tacos, and broil them until the cheese melts.

Q: How can I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover pizza tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the oven for a few minutes or in the microwave for a quick warm-up.

Q: What other meats can I use?
A: You can substitute the ground beef and chicken with ground turkey, sausage, or even shredded rotisserie chicken. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly.

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: To make this recipe dairy-free, use dairy-free shredded mozzarella or your favorite plant-based cheese alternative.

Conclusion:

Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos are a fun and creative way to enjoy the flavors of pizza in taco form. This dish combines the hearty, savory taste of ground beef, chicken, and pepperoni with the cheesy goodness of melted mozzarella. With a base of pizza sauce and a garnish of fresh basil, these tacos are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something new for dinner, this recipe is quick, customizable, and absolutely delicious!