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Taco Pizza Appetizer

taco pizza appetizer - featured image

This taco pizza appetizer combines the best of tacos and pizza into a crowd-pleasing, sliceable dish perfect for potlucks, parties, or game day. With a golden crust, zesty taco meat, melty cheese, and fresh toppings, it’s easy to make and always a hit.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tube refrigerated pizza dough (13.8 oz)
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
  • 2 tbsp taco seasoning
  • 2/3 cup water
  • 1 cup refried beans
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • 1 medium tomato, diced
  • 1/3 cup sliced black olives (optional)
  • 1/4 cup sliced green onions
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup salsa
  • 1 jalapeño, sliced thin (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a pizza pan or baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Unroll the refrigerated pizza dough and press it into the pan, stretching gently to fit. Mix melted butter and minced garlic, then brush over the crust. Bake for 8-10 minutes until lightly golden.
  3. Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until browned (about 5-6 minutes). Drain excess fat. Add taco seasoning and water, then simmer 3-4 minutes until thickened.
  4. While the crust is warm, gently spread refried beans across the surface using a spatula.
  5. Spoon the seasoned beef evenly over the beans and press lightly.
  6. Sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the meat. Press down gently.
  7. Return to the oven for 8-10 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and edges are crisp.
  8. Remove from oven and let cool for 3-5 minutes. Top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, olives, green onions, and jalapeños.
  9. Slice into squares or wedges. Serve warm with sour cream and salsa on the side.

Notes

For best results, pre-bake the crust and add fresh toppings after baking. Use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease. Easily adapt for gluten-free or vegetarian diets by swapping the crust or meat. Prep toppings while the meat cooks to save time. Let pizza cool a few minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts.

Nutrition

Keywords: taco pizza, appetizer, potluck, party food, easy pizza, taco night, game day, crowd pleaser, Mexican pizza, fusion recipe