Turn your ordinary meal into an extraordinary culinary adventure with this incredibly easy and undeniably delicious Taco Pizza! Featuring simple ingredients, this crowd-pleasing dish promises an explosion of flavor in every single bite, making it perfect for your next family dinner or casual gathering.
A ZESTY TWIST ON PIZZA NIGHT!
Is your family among the many who eagerly anticipate Taco Tuesday? Ours certainly is! We love exploring diverse meal variations to celebrate this beloved weekly tradition, from Mexican Pizza and Layered Taco Bake to a savory Taco Braid, hearty Taco Pie, and even a comforting Taco Spaghetti – the list goes on! My family not only enjoys these meals immensely but also appreciates how simple they are to prepare, even on the busiest of weekdays. Among all these fantastic options, this Taco Pizza stands out as an absolute favorite. It’s a straightforward dinner solution that is incredibly filling and effortlessly feeds the entire family, making it a go-to choice when you need a meal that delivers on both taste and convenience.
I love all your recipes! This one is another keeper! Huge hit at our Sunday school potluck!
– Laura
YOUR TACO PIZZA QUESTIONS ANSWERED: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Taco pizza offers a delightful fusion of two culinary worlds: the classic Italian pizza and the vibrant flavors of Mexican tacos. It begins with a traditional pizza dough crust, providing a familiar base. This crust is then generously topped with a rich, creamy salsa layer, followed by perfectly seasoned ground beef infused with classic taco spices. Finally, it’s crowned with an array of fresh and savory taco toppings, transforming it into a unique and irresistible dish that truly stands out.
Absolutely! This recipe is incredibly versatile and allows for easy customization of the protein. While ground beef is a classic choice, we frequently enjoy making this pizza with ground chicken for a lighter alternative. For a detailed guide on preparing it with poultry, be sure to check out my Chicken Taco Pizza recipe, which even includes a special sauce to elevate its flavor. You can also experiment with ground turkey or pork to discover your family’s favorite variation!
The beauty of Taco Pizza lies in its endless topping possibilities! Feel free to load it up with all your favorite taco accompaniments. For an extra layer of flavor and texture, consider spreading some refried beans on top of the pre-baked pizza dough before adding the creamy salsa mixture. Other fantastic options include fresh pico de gallo, creamy guacamole, hearty black beans, and spicy jalapeños for those who enjoy a kick. Shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, black olives, corn, sliced red onions, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro are also popular choices. Get creative and make it uniquely yours!
This recipe is designed for maximum flexibility, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences and skill level. If you enjoy baking from scratch, you can absolutely use your own homemade pizza dough. This will add a personal touch and often a superior flavor and texture. Just remember a crucial step: always pre-bake the dough first before you layer on the ground beef and cream cheese mixtures. This ensures a perfectly crispy crust that won’t become soggy under the toppings.
A taco pizza bar is an excellent idea, especially when you’re entertaining a group of people who have diverse preferences for taco toppings! It creates an interactive and fun dining experience. Simply prepare the base pizza (crust, creamy sauce, taco meat, and melted cheese), then set out a variety of fresh toppings in separate bowls. This allows each person to customize their individual slices with their favorite ingredients, ensuring everyone gets exactly what they want and enjoys a personalized taco pizza experience. It’s a fantastic way to cater to different tastes and dietary needs.
The choice of salsa significantly impacts the overall flavor profile of your Taco Pizza. You have the option to make your own fresh homemade salsa, which allows for precise control over ingredients and spice levels. Alternatively, high-quality store-bought salsa works wonderfully for convenience. My personal go-to is typically Herdez salsa, known for its authentic flavor. However, if it’s unavailable, Pace Restaurant Style salsa serves as an excellent backup. Don’t hesitate to choose a spicier salsa if you enjoy an extra kick, or a milder one for a more family-friendly dish.
For optimal freshness and texture, it’s generally best to store this pizza without the fresh toppings like shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes, as they can wilt or become soggy when refrigerated. Leftover pizza should be transferred to an airtight container and can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’re looking for a longer storage solution, this pizza freezes exceptionally well without the fresh toppings. Wrap individual slices or the entire pizza (once cooled) tightly in plastic wrap, then encase it in aluminum foil. Properly wrapped, it will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the oven until warmed through and the crust is crispy again, then add your fresh toppings.
ESSENTIAL INGREDIENTS FOR YOUR TACO PIZZA:
Crafting this incredible Taco Pizza requires a blend of fresh and flavorful components. Below is a comprehensive list of what you’ll need, along with helpful notes and substitution ideas. For precise measurements, please refer to the detailed recipe card at the end of this article.
- Pizza Dough: For ultimate convenience, I often use a refrigerated pizza crust from a tube, such as Pillsbury. However, as highlighted in the FAQ section, you are welcome to use any store-bought pizza dough or even prepare your own homemade pizza dough for a personal touch.
- Ground Beef: This provides a hearty and flavorful base for your pizza. For dietary preferences or simply to try something new, you can easily substitute ground pork, ground chicken, or ground turkey. Adjust cooking times slightly as needed for different meats.
- Taco Seasoning: Use your favorite brand, whether it’s Old El Paso or Taco Bell for that familiar flavor. Alternatively, you can craft your own homemade taco seasoning blend to control the spice and salt levels, tailoring it exactly to your taste.
- Cream Cheese: This is a crucial ingredient for the creamy, tangy sauce. Ensure it is sufficiently softened to room temperature. This makes it much easier to blend smoothly with the other ingredients, creating a luxurious and spreadable base.
- Sour Cream: Adding sour cream contributes to the rich creaminess and a hint of tang. If sour cream isn’t available or you prefer an alternative, plain Greek yogurt can be used as a healthy and equally delicious substitute, offering a similar texture and a slightly different tang.
- Salsa: Your choice of salsa will largely dictate the flavor profile and spice level of your pizza. I typically reach for Herdez salsa for its authentic taste. If that’s not on hand, Pace Restaurant Style salsa is an excellent backup. This is your opportunity to dial up the heat if you love a spicy pizza, or keep it mild for a family-friendly dish.
- Sharp Cheddar and Monterey Jack Cheeses: This combination provides a beautiful melt and a balance of sharp and mild flavors. Feel free to use your favorite cheese blend! For those who crave more heat, substituting some or all of the Monterey Jack with Pepper Jack cheese will add a wonderful spicy kick. Colby Jack or a Mexican blend would also work beautifully.
- Your Favorite Taco Toppings: This is where the fun truly begins! Gather an assortment of fresh toppings. Consider setting them out in individual bowls, allowing everyone to customize their own pizza slices. Popular choices include shredded lettuce, diced fresh tomatoes, sliced black olives, finely chopped red onions, fresh cilantro, sliced avocado or guacamole, a drizzle of hot sauce, or even a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips for extra crunch.
CRAFTING YOUR TACO PIZZA: A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE
Making this Taco Pizza is a straightforward process that yields incredibly delicious results. Follow these simple steps to bring this crowd-pleasing dish to life in your kitchen.
Step 1: Prepare the Pizza Crust
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Carefully unroll or press your pizza dough into a 10×15-inch baking dish or a similarly sized pan. Pre-bake the crust for 8 minutes. This crucial step helps to ensure your crust is wonderfully crispy and prevents it from becoming soggy once the wet toppings are added. Once pre-baked, set the crust aside to cool slightly while you prepare the other components.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, place the ground beef over medium-high heat. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, break the meat into crumbles as it cooks. Stir occasionally to ensure even browning. Continue cooking until all of the ground beef has turned brown and there is no pink remaining. This typically takes about 5-7 minutes, depending on your stove and the amount of meat.
Step 3: Season the Taco Meat
Once the beef is fully cooked, carefully drain off any excess grease from the skillet. This step is important for preventing a greasy pizza. Return the skillet to the heat and add the taco seasoning packet and water. Stir thoroughly to combine, ensuring the seasoning evenly coats the beef. Continue to cook for approximately 4 minutes, or until most of the water has evaporated and the meat mixture is thick and fragrant. Remove the skillet from the heat.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Salsa Base
In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and salsa. Using an electric hand mixer, beat the ingredients together until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Ensure there are no lumps of cream cheese, as this will result in an uneven spread. This creamy blend forms the delicious, tangy base layer of your Taco Pizza.
Step 5: Assemble the Pizza Layers
Take your pre-baked pizza crust and generously spread the creamy cream cheese mixture evenly across its surface. Be sure to leave a slight border along the edges, similar to a traditional pizza crust. Next, spoon the seasoned taco meat over the creamy layer, distributing it as evenly as possible. Finally, sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses uniformly over the taco meat. This creates the three essential savory layers before baking.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the assembled pizza back into the preheated oven. Bake for another 6-10 minutes. Keep a close eye on it during this stage; you’re looking for a crust that is golden brown and cheese that has completely melted and is bubbly, possibly with slightly browned edges. The exact baking time may vary depending on your oven and the thickness of your crust.
Step 7: Top and Serve Immediately
Once baked, remove the Taco Pizza from the oven. This is the moment to add your favorite fresh taco toppings! Common choices include a generous layer of shredded lettuce, juicy diced tomatoes, and savory sliced black olives. Other fantastic additions could be a dollop of guacamole, fresh cilantro, or a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips for added crunch. Slice the pizza into desired portions and serve immediately to enjoy it at its freshest and warmest, ensuring the crust is still crispy and the cheese is perfectly gooey.
TIPS FOR TACO PIZZA SUCCESS
- Don’t Skip Pre-Baking: Pre-baking the pizza dough for a few minutes is crucial. It helps prevent a soggy crust, ensuring your Taco Pizza has a delightful crispness that holds up to the flavorful toppings.
- Drain the Grease: After cooking your ground beef, make sure to thoroughly drain any excess fat. This prevents your pizza from becoming oily and ensures the taco meat is flavorful, not greasy.
- Soften Your Cream Cheese: For a smooth and spreadable creamy base, always bring your cream cheese to room temperature before mixing. This makes blending effortless and prevents lumps.
- Customize Your Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the heat! Choose a mild salsa for a family-friendly dish or a medium/hot salsa for an extra kick. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the taco meat.
- Add Fresh Toppings Right Before Serving: Toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and avocado are best added just before serving. This keeps them fresh, crisp, and vibrant, preventing them from wilting or becoming soggy.
- Experiment with Cheeses: While cheddar and Monterey Jack are fantastic, don’t hesitate to try other cheeses like Pepper Jack for more spice, or a Mexican blend for an even richer flavor profile.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS & PERFECT PAIRINGS
Taco Pizza is a meal in itself, but a few complementary sides can elevate your dining experience. For a lighter touch, serve it alongside a crisp green salad tossed with a zesty lime vinaigrette. A simple side of black beans and corn salad, or even a refreshing fruit salsa with cinnamon sugar tortilla chips, would also be excellent. For a classic Mexican-inspired pairing, don’t forget a bowl of homemade guacamole with tortilla chips. Pair your Taco Pizza with an ice-cold Mexican soda, a refreshing margarita, or a simple iced tea for a complete and satisfying meal that captures the essence of a fun Taco Tuesday night.
CRAVING MORE RECIPES?
If you’ve enjoyed this delightful Taco Pizza and are looking for more culinary inspiration, especially involving pizza, tacos, or easy comfort food, you’re in luck! Here are some other fantastic recipes that we think you’ll love. From more pizza creations to other taco-inspired dishes, these ideas are perfect for expanding your weekly meal plan with delicious and simple options.
- Easy Pizza Pasta Bake
- Copycat Blaze White Top Pizza
- Apple Dessert Pizza
- Easy Breakfast Pizza
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pizza
- Hearty Taco Potatoes
- Cheesy Pizza Skillet Dip
- Classic Taco Bake
- One-Pan Taco Rice Dinner
- Taco Biscuit Cups
- Copycat Taco Bell Mexican Pizza
Taco Pizza
★★★★★ (3 Reviews)
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15 minutes
28 minutes
43 minutes
8
Brandie Skibinski
Ingredients
- 13.8 ounce tube pizza dough
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 ounce packet taco seasoning
- ⅓ cup water
- 8 ounce block cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- ⅓ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup salsa
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- shredded lettuce, for topping
- diced tomatoes, for topping
- sliced black olives, for topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Open the can of pizza dough and press it into a 10×15-inch or similar-sized baking dish. Prebake for 8 minutes and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef, breaking it up into crumbles. Cook, occasionally stirring, until there is no pink left.
- Drain off any excess grease and add the taco seasoning and water, stir it in until combined, and cook until most of the water has cooked out, about 4 minutes. Take off the heat.
- In a small bowl, using an electric hand mixer, mix together the cream cheese, sour cream, and salsa until smooth.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture on top of the parbaked crust, leaving a slight border along the edges.
- Top with the taco meat. Sprinkle on the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake for 6-10 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Add your favorite taco toppings, such as shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes, immediately before serving.
Video
Notes
- Please refer to the FAQ’s and ingredient list above for other substitutions or for the answers to the most common questions.
- Use whatever taco toppings you prefer. A Taco Pizza bar would be excellent to let everyone top with their personal preferences.
- Any pizza dough will work with this recipe, so feel free to make your own or buy your favorite store-bought brand.
- Depending on the brand of pizza dough you use, there may be slightly different directions for pre-baking. Always refer to the directions on your specific pizza dough package if they differ from what is written above.
- Ground chicken or turkey can be used instead of ground beef for a different flavor profile. See my Chicken Taco Pizza recipe for more ideas.
Lunch, Main Course
American
Nutrition
| Carbohydrates: 29g
| Protein: 26g
| Fat: 25g
| Sodium: 1160mg
| Fiber: 2g
| Sugar: 6g
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.
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