Craveable Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos: The Best Beefy Bite

Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos: Get ready to experience a culinary mash-up that will revolutionize your dinner routine! Imagine combining the irresistible, savory delight of your favorite meat lover’s pizza with the handheld joy and satisfying crunch of a taco. That’s precisely what we’re diving into today, and I promise, it’s even more spectacular than it sounds. While traditional pizza hails from the vibrant streets of Naples and the venerable taco has roots deep in Mexican history, this innovative dish isn’t about ancient origins; it’s about the thrilling modern spirit of culinary fusion and creative home cooking. It’s a testament to how beloved flavors can evolve and come together in new, delightful ways.

Why People Adore This Epic Combination

People absolutely adore this dish because it masterfully delivers on comfort, convenience, and an explosion of flavor. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser, bringing together the robust, meaty toppings of pepperoni, sausage, and bacon, gooey melted cheese, and a tangy pizza sauce, all perfectly nestled within a crisp taco shell. This creative approach offers a playful yet incredibly satisfying meal, making the Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos a fantastic option for family dinners, game nights, or any occasion where you crave something extraordinarily delicious and fun. It’s the perfect answer for when you can’t decide between two beloved classics – now you don’t have to!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

For the “Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos” Shells:

• 12-16 Flour Tortillas (8-inch): I find that 8-inch flour tortillas are the perfect size for these Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos, offering a great balance between a substantial bite and easy handling. They are pliable enough to shape into taco shells without breaking, and they crisp up beautifully in the oven. You could use a slightly larger size if you prefer an even more generous portion, but avoid anything too small as it might be hard to fit all the delicious fillings.
• Olive Oil Spray: A light mist of olive oil spray is essential for helping the tortillas achieve that desirable golden-brown crispiness and preventing them from sticking, especially when we’re shaping them.

For the Hearty Meat Lovers Topping:

• 1 pound Ground Beef (80/20 lean): I always go for an 80/20 lean ground beef because it offers a fantastic balance of flavor and tenderness. The slight fat content renders down during cooking, adding richness, but it’s not so fatty that it becomes greasy once drained. This forms the foundational meat component of our incredible Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos.
• 1 pound Italian Sausage (mild or hot, casings removed): Whether you prefer a gentle warmth or a fiery kick, Italian sausage is non-negotiable for true meat lovers. Removing the casings allows us to crumble it and mix it evenly with the other meats. I often opt for a mild variety so the heat doesn’t overpower the other amazing flavors, but feel free to use hot if you love a spicy surprise in your Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos.
• 4 ounces Pepperoni Slices (mini or regular, quartered): Pepperoni adds that iconic pizza flavor and a wonderful chewiness. For these Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos, I recommend mini pepperoni if you can find them, or quartering regular-sized slices. This ensures that every bite gets a good distribution of pepperoni goodness.
• 6 slices Bacon (thick-cut, cooked and crumbled): Bacon brings an irresistible smoky, salty crunch to our pizza tacos. I prefer thick-cut bacon as it holds up better after cooking and provides a more satisfying texture. Make sure to cook it until crisp and then crumble it into small pieces – that way, it integrates perfectly into the meat mixture.
• 1 small Yellow Onion (finely diced): Onions are a flavor powerhouse, adding a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth when sautéed. Finely dicing ensures they soften and blend into the meat mixture seamlessly without any large, overpowering chunks.
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced): Garlic is another must-have aromatic that elevates the entire dish. Freshly minced garlic, added towards the end of sautéing the onions, provides that pungent, savory kick that truly defines a great meat topping.
• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil: For sautéing our aromatics. A good quality olive oil always makes a difference.
• 1 teaspoon Dried Italian Seasoning: This blend of herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary is crucial for giving our meat mixture that authentic Italian pizza flavor.
• ½ teaspoon Dried Oregano: A little extra oregano intensifies that classic pizza aroma and taste.
• ¼ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional, for a kick): If you’re like me and enjoy a little warmth, red pepper flakes are a fantastic addition. Adjust to your personal spice preference for your Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos.
• Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper (to taste): Seasoning throughout the cooking process is key. I always taste and adjust as I go to ensure the flavors are perfectly balanced.

For Assembling and Garnishing:

• 1 ½ cups Pizza Sauce (your favorite marinara or homemade): A good quality pizza sauce is paramount. Whether you prefer a classic marinara, a rich chunky tomato sauce, or even a homemade blend, make sure it’s flavorful. We’ll be using some for the base and a little extra for serving, if desired, to bring all the components of these Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos together.
• 3 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (low-moisture, part-skim): Mozzarella is the quintessential pizza cheese, known for its incredible melt and stretch. Low-moisture, part-skim mozzarella is my top choice because it melts beautifully without releasing too much water, preventing a soggy taco. Shredding your own from a block often yields better results than pre-shredded bags, which sometimes contain anti-caking agents.
• ½ cup Shredded Provolone Cheese (optional, for extra flavor): Provolone adds a sharp, slightly smoky flavor that complements mozzarella wonderfully. It’s an optional but highly recommended addition for an even richer cheese experience in your Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos.
• Fresh Basil Leaves (for garnish): A sprinkle of fresh basil leaves, torn or thinly sliced (chiffonade), at the very end adds a vibrant color, a beautiful aroma, and a burst of fresh, peppery flavor that cuts through the richness of the meats.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese (for serving, optional): A final dusting of freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving adds a salty, umami kick and a gourmet touch.

Instructions for Your Delicious Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos:

Phase 1: Preparing the Taco Shells (Pizza-Style!)

1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets: First things first, let’s get that oven roaring. Preheat your oven to a good, hot 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, grab two large baking sheets and line them with parchment paper. This will ensure our tortillas don’t stick and make cleanup a breeze. If you don’t have parchment paper, a light spray of olive oil directly onto the baking sheet will work.
2. Warm and Soften the Tortillas: For our Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos, we need pliable tortillas that can be shaped without tearing. I like to warm them slightly first. You can do this in a few ways:
   • Microwave Method: Stack 3-4 tortillas at a time, wrap them loosely in a damp paper towel, and microwave for 20-30 seconds until warm and flexible.
   • Stovetop Method: Heat a dry skillet over medium-high heat. Cook each tortilla for about 10-15 seconds per side, just until it’s warm and soft.
   • Oven Method: Wrap a stack of tortillas in foil and place them in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes.

   Keep them covered with a clean kitchen towel to retain warmth and flexibility while you work.

3. Prepare for Shaping: This is where we start transforming simple tortillas into the perfect vessel for our Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos. Take one warm tortilla and lightly spray both sides with olive oil spray. This not only helps with crisping but also prevents them from drying out too quickly.
4. Shape Your Taco Shells: Now for the fun part – shaping! There are a couple of excellent methods here:
   • Taco Holder Method: If you’re lucky enough to own a taco holder rack, this is the easiest way. Drape the oiled tortilla into one of the slots, creating an inverted “V” shape. Repeat with the remaining tortillas, placing them on your prepared baking sheets.
   • Foil Tent Method (My Personal Favorite!): If you don’t have taco holders, don’t worry! Crumple pieces of aluminum foil into long, sturdy “tents” or “mountains.” You’ll want them to be about 2-3 inches tall and long enough to support a tortilla. Drape each oiled tortilla over a foil tent, allowing the ends to hang down to create that classic taco shape. This method works incredibly well for getting a perfectly formed taco shell for our Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos.
   • Baking Sheet Crease Method: Some baking sheets have a natural crease or lip in the middle. You can try to drape the tortilla over this, but it might not give as deep a “V” shape as the other methods.

   Arrange your shaped tortillas on the prepared baking sheets, ensuring they have a little space between them for even cooking.

5. Pre-Bake the Shells: Bake the shaped tortillas in your preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until they are lightly golden and have started to hold their shape firmly but are still somewhat pliable. We don’t want them rock-hard yet, as we still need to fill them. This pre-baking step is crucial for preventing soggy bottoms and ensuring a good crunch in our finished Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos. Carefully remove them from the oven and set them aside. Keep the oven on, as we’ll be using it again shortly!

Phase 2: Crafting the Hearty Meat Lovers Topping

1. Cook the Bacon: In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan, cook your thick-cut bacon over medium heat until it’s wonderfully crisp. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once crispy, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess fat. Once cooled slightly, crumble it into small pieces and set aside. I often save a tablespoon or two of the bacon grease in the pan for extra flavor, but you can discard it if you prefer.
2. Brown the Ground Beef: Add the 1 pound of ground beef to the same skillet (with or without the bacon grease, as desired). Break up the meat with a wooden spoon or spatula. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until the beef is thoroughly browned and no pink remains. This typically takes about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, carefully drain off any excess fat from the skillet. This is an important step to prevent a greasy filling for our Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos. Set the browned beef aside in a bowl.
3. Cook the Italian Sausage: Now, add the Italian sausage (casings removed, if applicable) to the hot skillet. Use your spoon to break it apart into small, crumbles. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sausage is fully cooked through and browned, about 7-10 minutes. Again, drain any excess fat. Combining these two meats gives our Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos a fantastic depth of flavor. Transfer the cooked sausage to the bowl with the ground beef.
4. Sauté the Aromatics: Add 1 tablespoon of fresh olive oil to the now-empty skillet (or just use the residual fats if you left a little). Reduce the heat to medium. Add the finely diced yellow onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it becomes soft and translucent, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. You want them to be tender and slightly sweet, not browned.
5. Add the Garlic and Seasonings: Once the onions are softened, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for just 1 minute more, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter very quickly. Immediately stir in the dried Italian seasoning, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another 30 seconds, allowing the spices to toast slightly and release their aromas. This step really infuses the base with that classic pizza taste for our Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos.
6. Combine and Simmer the Meat Mixture: Return both the browned ground beef and cooked Italian sausage to the skillet with the sautéed onions and spices. Add ½ cup of your favorite pizza sauce to the mixture. Stir everything together thoroughly, ensuring all the meat is coated with the sauce and seasonings. Let this mixture simmer over low heat for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This short simmer time helps deepen the taste of our meat filling for the Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos.
7. Stir in Pepperoni and Bacon: Finally, stir in the quartered pepperoni slices and most of the crumbled bacon (save a little for garnish if you like). Cook for just another 2 minutes, allowing the pepperoni to warm through and release its oils into the meat mixture. Taste the mixture and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your preference. Remember, the bacon and pepperoni are salty, so adjust accordingly.

Phase 3: Assembling Your Epic Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos

1. Prepare Your Assembly Station: Gather your pre-baked taco shells, the delicious meat topping, your pizza sauce, and all your shredded cheeses. This makes the assembly process smooth and efficient. It’s almost time to bring our Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos to life!
2. Set Up Your Baking Sheet: You’ll likely need your original baking sheets with the taco shells still on them. If they were cooled, you can briefly warm the shells in the oven for a couple of minutes to make them a bit more flexible for filling.
3. Sauce the Shells: Using a small spoon or a pastry brush, spread a thin layer of pizza sauce along the inside bottom of each pre-baked taco shell. Don’t go too heavy on the sauce here, as we want to avoid making the shells soggy. Just enough to provide a flavorful base.
4. Layer the Cheese Base: Sprinkle a generous pinch of the shredded mozzarella cheese (and provolone, if using) over the sauce in each taco shell. This cheese layer acts as a barrier, further helping to prevent the shells from getting too wet from the meat filling, and also provides an extra layer of cheesy goodness.
5. Fill with the Meat Lovers Topping: Now for the star of the show! Spoon a generous amount of your hearty meat lovers topping into each taco shell. Be mindful not to overfill them, as we still need to add more cheese on top, and you want them to be manageable to eat. Aim for a good, even distribution of meat in each of your Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos.
6. Top with More Cheese: Crown each filled taco with a final, generous sprinkle of the remaining shredded mozzarella (and provolone, if using). This top layer of cheese will melt into a golden, bubbly crust, sealing in all the flavors.

Phase 4: The Grand Finale – Baking to Perfection

1. Return to the Oven: Carefully place the baking sheets with your assembled Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos back into the preheated 400°F (200°C) oven.
2. Bake Until Golden and Bubbly: Bake for 8-12 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted, bubbly, and beautifully golden brown around the edges. The tortillas should also become crispier during this final bake. Keep a close eye on them to prevent over-browning. Every oven is a little different, so the timing might vary slightly.
3. Cool Slightly: Once baked to perfection, carefully remove the baking sheets from the oven. It’s tempting to dive right in, but these Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos will be incredibly hot! Let them rest on the baking sheets for 3-5 minutes. This allows the cheese to set slightly and prevents you from burning your mouth.

Phase 5: Serving Your Irresistible Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos

1. Garnish for Freshness: While the tacos are still warm, sprinkle them with fresh basil leaves. The heat will help release the basil’s aromatic oils, adding a beautiful, fresh counterpoint to the rich meat and cheese. If you reserved some crumbled bacon, now is the time to sprinkle it over the top for an extra touch of savory crunch.
2. Optional Extra Toppings: For an extra layer of flavor and texture, I sometimes like to add a dusting of grated Parmesan cheese or a few more red pepper flakes for those who enjoy a spicier bite. A small dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of ranch dressing can also be a surprisingly delightful addition for these Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos.
3. Serve Immediately: These Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, while the cheese is still melty and the shells are crisp. They make a fantastic meal on their own, or you can serve them alongside a simple green salad to balance the richness.

Why This Recipe is a Game-Changer

This isn’t just another dinner recipe; it’s an experience, a delightful fusion that I’m incredibly excited for you to try. I’ve shared with you my ultimate creation, a dish that truly bridges two beloved culinary worlds in the most spectacular way possible. Imagine the irresistible crispy perfection of a taco shell meeting the rich, savory explosion of a classic meat lover’s pizza – it’s a revelation for your taste buds, and I promise you, once you taste it, there’s simply no going back. This recipe is more than just food; it’s a testament to creativity in the kitchen, offering a delightful and unexpected twist on familiar favorites that will leave everyone at your table utterly thrilled. It’s designed to be a showstopper, a fantastic conversation starter, and an instant family favorite that you’ll find yourself craving time and time again.

The Irresistible Appeal

So, what specifically makes this particular dish a must-try for your next mealtime adventure? It’s the harmonious, vibrant blend of textures and flavors that dance on your palate with every single bite. You get that incredibly satisfying crunch from the perfectly cooked taco shell, immediately followed by the juicy, intensely seasoned meat mixture – a medley of savory pepperoni, hearty sausage, and flavorful ground beef – all generously smothered in tangy, robust pizza sauce and gloriously gooey, melted mozzarella cheese. Every bite is a culinary journey through comfort food paradise, offering the absolute best elements of both pizza and tacos without compromising on the authentic deliciousness of either. It’s incredibly hearty, astonishingly flavorful, and surprisingly straightforward to put together, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknight dinners or fun, laid-back weekend gatherings with friends and family. Trust me on this; the combination is nothing short of divine, a truly unforgettable gastronomic experience.

Perfect Pairings and Creative Twists

When it comes to serving these culinary masterpieces, you’ll find they are incredibly versatile and play well with a variety of side dishes. I personally love to serve them with a simple, crisp side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette; the freshness helps to cut through the richness of the main dish beautifully. A bowl of classic tortilla chips accompanied by a vibrant, fresh salsa or a generous dollop of cool sour cream on the side also makes a fantastic accompaniment, really leaning into the taco inspiration. For drinks, a cold soda, a refreshing iced tea, or even a crisp craft beer (for the adults, of course!) would complement the robust, savory flavors of the dish wonderfully. Think casual, fun, and supremely flavorful!

Customization is Key!

But the fun and creativity certainly don’t stop there. One of the greatest joys of home cooking is the freedom to make a recipe truly your own, and this particular dish is incredibly adaptable to personal preferences. Feeling adventurous? Try adding some finely diced bell peppers or onions to your meat mixture during cooking for an extra layer of flavor and a pleasing textural crunch. For those who adore a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes mixed in, or a dash of your favorite hot sauce drizzled on before serving, will definitely do the trick. You could even swap out the mozzarella for a sharper cheddar, a smoky provolone, or a lively blend of Mexican cheeses for a distinctly different flavor profile. Consider introducing some sautéed mushrooms, sliced black olives, or even some pickled jalapeños if you’re a fan. And for the ultimate in personalized dining, why not set up a toppings bar? Let everyone at the table choose their own adventure with additional cheese, fresh cilantro, more jalapeños, or even a drizzle of creamy ranch dressing. The possibilities are truly endless, ensuring that your Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos can be perfectly tailored to suit every single palate, making each bite uniquely theirs.

Your Culinary Adventure Awaits!

So, what are you waiting for? I wholeheartedly encourage you to roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and give this incredible recipe a try this week. You’ll be absolutely amazed at how quickly and effortlessly it comes together, and even more impressed by the glorious explosion of flavors in every single bite. It’s an innovative, incredibly delicious, and undeniably fun dish that I’m confident will earn a permanent, cherished spot in your personal recipe rotation. Don’t just read about this fantastic creation; experience it for yourself – your taste buds will thank you!

Share Your Masterpiece!

Once you’ve whipped up your very own batch of these sensational treats, I would absolutely love, love, love to hear all about your experience. Did you discover any unique twists or brilliant modifications of your own? What did your family and friends think of this innovative fusion? Please, snap a gorgeous photo of your culinary creation and share it with the world! Drop a comment below to tell us about your journey. Your feedback, inspiring stories, and creative variations not only bring a smile to my face but also inspire me and countless other home cooks in our vibrant community. Let’s continue to build a space around delicious, exciting, and accessible food. Happy cooking, everyone, and I genuinely can’t wait to see your fantastic, personalized creations!

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Meat Lovers Pizza Tacos

A revolutionary culinary mash-up combining the savory delight of a meat lover’s pizza with the handheld joy and satisfying crunch of a taco.

Prep Time
30 Minutes

Cook Time
50 Minutes

Total Time
20 Minutes

Servings
12-16 servings

Ingredients

• 12-16 Flour Tortillas (8-inch)
• Olive Oil Spray
• 1 pound Ground Beef (80/20 lean)
• 1 pound Beef Italian Sausage (mild or hot, casings removed)
• 4 ounces Pepperoni Slices (mini or regular, quartered)
• 6 slices Beef Bacon (thick-cut, cooked and crumbled)
• 1 small Yellow Onion (finely diced)
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
• 1 teaspoon Dried Italian Seasoning
• ½ teaspoon Dried Oregano
• ¼ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
• Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper (to taste)
• 1 ½ cups Pizza Sauce
• 3 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (low-moisture, part-skim)
• ½ cup Shredded Provolone Cheese (optional)
• Fresh Basil Leaves (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan Cheese (for serving, optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1
   Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Warm 8-inch flour tortillas (microwave, stovetop, or oven) until pliable; keep covered. Lightly spray both sides of each warm tortilla with olive oil spray.
2. Step 2
   Shape tortillas into taco shells using a taco holder rack or by draping over foil tents. Place on prepared baking sheets. Pre-bake shells for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden and firm but still pliable. Keep oven on.
3. Step 3
   Cook beef bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crisp (8-10 min). Drain on paper towels, crumble, and set aside. (Optional: reserve 1-2 tbsp bacon grease).
4. Step 4
   Brown 1 lb ground beef in the same skillet (with or without bacon grease) over medium-high heat (5-7 min). Drain fat, transfer to a bowl. Add 1 lb beef Italian sausage (casings removed) to the skillet. Crumble and cook until browned (7-10 min). Drain fat, transfer to the bowl with ground beef.
5. Step 5
   Add 1 tbsp olive oil to the skillet. Sauté finely diced yellow onion over medium heat until soft (5-7 min). Add minced garlic, cook 1 min. Stir in Italian seasoning, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using); cook 30 seconds.
6. Step 6
   Return cooked ground beef and beef Italian sausage to the skillet. Stir in ½ cup pizza sauce. Simmer over low heat for 5-7 minutes. Stir in quartered pepperoni slices and most of the crumbled beef bacon. Cook 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Step 7
   Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce inside each pre-baked shell. Sprinkle a pinch of shredded mozzarella (and provolone, if using) over the sauce. Spoon a generous amount of meat topping into each shell. Top with remaining shredded mozzarella (and provolone).
8. Step 8
   Return assembled tacos on baking sheets to the 400°F (200°C) oven. Bake for 8-12 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown, and shells are crispier. Remove from oven and let rest 3-5 minutes.
9. Step 9
   Garnish with fresh basil leaves (and reserved crumbled beef bacon, if desired). Optional: Dust with grated Parmesan cheese or add red pepper flakes. Serve immediately.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.