Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos Recipe
If you’re craving something bold, cheesy, and absolutely loaded with flavor, Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos are about to become your new obsession. Imagine everything you adore about a classic meat lovers pizza—gooey cheese, zesty sauce, and a medley of savory meats—all bundled up in a crispy taco shell. This dish is as fun to make as it is to eat, and it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser for pizza nights, game day gatherings, or whenever you want to shake up your dinner routine.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients are the secret to these show-stopping tacos! Each one plays a key role in creating layers of flavor, texture, and that irresistible pizza vibe. Gather these staples and you’re halfway to dinner bliss.
- Flour tortillas (8 small): The perfect vessel for holding all that meaty, cheesy goodness, and they crisp up beautifully in the oven.
- Pizza sauce (1/2 cup): Tangy and rich, this is the flavor backbone of your tacos—feel free to use your favorite jarred or homemade version.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1/2 cup): Melts like a dream and gives you those classic pizza pulls everyone loves.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1/2 cup): Adds a sharp, creamy bite that balances out the richness of the meats.
- Cooked Italian sausage, crumbled (1/2 cup): Brings a little spice and big, meaty flavor to every bite.
- Cooked ground beef (1/2 cup): Hearty and familiar, it makes these tacos extra satisfying.
- Mini pepperoni slices (1/4 cup): Tiny but mighty, these pack a punch and give that unmistakable pizza taste.
- Cooked and chopped bacon (1/4 cup): Smoky, crispy, and absolutely essential for true meat lovers.
- Dried oregano (1/4 teaspoon): Just a pinch elevates the sauce and ties the whole pizza theme together.
- Garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a subtle kick and savory depth to the sauce.
- Olive oil (for brushing): Helps the tortillas crisp up and adds a gorgeous golden color.
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish): A pop of green for freshness and color—totally optional but so worth it.
How to Make Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos
Step 1: Shape and Bake the Taco Shells
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly brush both sides of each small flour tortilla with olive oil—don’t be shy, this step is what gives the shells their irresistible crispiness! Drape the tortillas over the edges of oven-safe baking racks or tuck them into taco molds if you have them. Pop them in the oven for 5 to 7 minutes, until they’re golden and hold their shape. Once done, take them out and let them cool slightly so they’re ready to be filled.
Step 2: Make the Pizza Sauce
While the taco shells are baking, set a skillet over medium heat. Pour in your pizza sauce, then sprinkle in the dried oregano and garlic powder. Give it a good stir and let the sauce warm through—this step wakes up all those classic Italian flavors and makes your kitchen smell amazing.
Step 3: Fill the Taco Shells
Grab your baked taco shells and start the assembly line! Spoon a little of the warm pizza sauce into each shell, then layer on the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese. This cheesy base sets the stage for all those meaty toppings that are coming next.
Step 4: Add the Meats
Now for the fun part that makes these truly Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos. Top each cheesy shell with a mix of crumbled Italian sausage, ground beef, mini pepperoni slices, and a generous sprinkle of chopped bacon. Each taco should be absolutely loaded, so don’t hold back—it’s meant to be indulgent!
Step 5: Bake Until Melty and Bubbling
Arrange the filled tacos on a baking sheet and slide them back into the oven for another 5 to 8 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the cheese is melted, bubbling, and just starting to brown. This quick trip in the oven melds all the flavors and makes the tacos extra irresistible.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
If you’re feeling fancy, scatter some fresh basil or parsley over the top of your finished tacos. Serve them hot and watch everyone’s eyes light up at the first bite!
How to Serve Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley is a classic touch that adds both color and a hint of freshness to balance all those rich, savory flavors. If you like, offer a bowl of extra pizza sauce, ranch, or even spicy marinara on the side for dipping—trust me, it takes these tacos over the top!
Side Dishes
These tacos are hearty enough to stand on their own, but they shine even brighter when paired with the right sides. Think crisp Caesar salad, garlic knots, or oven-roasted veggies for a complete meal. They’re even fantastic with crunchy potato wedges if you’re feeding a hungry crowd.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to turn Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos into a party centerpiece? Arrange them upright on a platter, nestled in a bed of fresh greens or surrounded by colorful veggie sticks. Or, serve each taco on individual plates with a skewer of fresh mozzarella balls and cherry tomatoes for an extra pop of Italian flair!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you somehow have leftovers, store the cooled Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The shells may soften slightly, but the flavors will still be delicious. For best results, keep the garnishes separate and add them just before serving.
Freezing
To freeze, let the tacos cool completely, then wrap each one individually in foil or plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer bag and store for up to one month. They’re perfect for meal prepping or for a surprise pizza taco craving down the line!
Reheating
Reheat your Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the shells are crisp again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the shells a bit soggy. If you do use the microwave, a short burst is best and eat them right away.
FAQs
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
Flour tortillas are recommended because they crisp up best and hold the fillings without breaking, but you can try corn tortillas if preferred—just handle them gently and watch the baking time, as they crisp quickly.
What other meats can I use for Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in Canadian bacon, diced salami, or even grilled chicken for a twist. The beauty of Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos is how customizable they are to your favorite pizza toppings.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes, you can make a hearty vegetarian version by using plant-based sausage, ground meat alternatives, and veggie pepperoni. Load up on sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and olives for even more flavor.
How do I keep the taco shells crispy when serving a crowd?
To keep shells crisp, bake them just before serving and avoid filling them too far in advance. If you’re hosting, set up a “taco bar” so guests can build their own right before eating—no soggy shells!
Can I make these ahead for a party?
You can prep the meats, cheese, and sauce in advance and store them separately. Bake and fill the tortillas just before guests arrive for the freshest, crispiest Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a fun, flavor-packed dinner that’s sure to wow friends and family, you can’t go wrong with Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos. They’re easy, customizable, and seriously addictive—give them a try and watch everyone come back for seconds!
Print
Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (2 tacos per serving) 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos combine the best of two beloved comfort foods—pizza and tacos—into one delicious, easy-to-make dish. Featuring a crispy tortilla shell filled with a medley of Italian sausage, ground beef, pepperoni, and bacon, topped with melty mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, and enhanced by classic pizza sauce seasoned with oregano and garlic, these tacos are perfect for a fun family dinner or game night treat.
Ingredients
Shells and Sauce
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Olive oil for brushing
Cheeses
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Meat Toppings
- 1/2 cup cooked Italian sausage, crumbled
- 1/2 cup cooked ground beef
- 1/4 cup mini pepperoni slices
- 1/4 cup cooked and chopped bacon
Garnish (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Shells: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly brush both sides of each flour tortilla with olive oil. Drape the tortillas over the edges of two oven-safe baking racks or taco molds to create taco shapes. Bake for 5–7 minutes until the tortillas are crisp and golden. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly to maintain their shape.
- Warm Sauce: While the shells bake, heat the pizza sauce in a skillet over medium heat. Stir in the dried oregano and garlic powder to infuse the sauce with Italian flavors.
- Assemble Tacos: Spoon a generous amount of the warm pizza sauce into each crispy taco shell. Layer the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses evenly over the sauce. Top with crumbled Italian sausage, cooked ground beef, mini pepperoni slices, and chopped bacon to create a hearty and flavorful filling.
- Bake Filled Tacos: Arrange the filled taco shells on a baking sheet and return them to the oven. Bake for 5–8 minutes or until the cheeses are melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the tacos from the oven and garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the perfect fusion of pizza and tacos.
Notes
- Customize the meat toppings based on your preference—consider adding Canadian bacon, diced salami, or sausage varieties you like.
- For a spicy kick, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes over the meat or add sliced jalapeños before baking.
- These pizza tacos are delicious served with a side of marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
- Use corn tortillas for a gluten-free alternative, though the texture and shape retention may differ.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tacos
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 920mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
