Meat Lovers Pepperoni Pizza Tacos – The Ultimate Fusion Dinner!
If you’re someone who craves both tacos and pizza, this recipe is your dream come true. These Meat Lovers Pepperoni Pizza Tacos bring together the savory goodness of Italian-style pizza and the fun, handheld experience of tacos. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner, a game-day snack, or a party appetizer, this creative fusion dish will steal the show!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 cup pepperoni slices
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup pizza sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp garlic powder
For the Tacos:
- 8 taco shells (hard or soft, your choice)
- Optional toppings:
- Diced bell peppers
- Sliced olives
- Chopped red onion
- Fresh basil
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the sausage and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess grease to avoid soggy tacos.
2. Add Flavor with Pepperoni & Sauce
Add the pepperoni slices to the skillet, followed by Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and pizza sauce. Stir everything together and let it cook for 2–3 more minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.
3. Melt the Cheese
Turn off the heat and immediately stir in the shredded mozzarella. The residual heat will melt the cheese, giving you that ooey-gooey texture that screams “pizza!”
4. Prep Your Taco Shells
- If using hard taco shells, bake them according to the package instructions to enhance their crunch.
- For soft shells, warm them in a dry skillet or microwave just until pliable.
5. Assemble Your Pizza Tacos
Spoon a generous amount of the meat-and-cheese filling into each taco shell. Don’t overfill, as you’ll want to leave room for toppings.
6. Add Your Favorite Toppings
Top with whatever you like—diced bell peppers for crunch, olives for saltiness, red onions for zing, or fresh basil for a fresh bite. A sprinkle of Parmesan gives it a gourmet finish.
7. Drizzle & Serve
Finish with an extra drizzle of warm pizza sauce on top and serve immediately. These tacos pair perfectly with a simple side salad or dipping sauces like garlic ranch or spicy marinara. Potsticker Soup with Mushrooms Bok Choy
Serving Suggestions
- Great for family dinners, game nights, or party snacks
- Serve with potato wedges, coleslaw, or even a garlic bread side
- Cut them in half and serve on a platter for appetizers
Customization Ideas
- Swap sausage for ground beef, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles
- Use low-fat cheese and whole wheat tortillas for a lighter version
- Add a spicy kick with red pepper flakes or jalapeños
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fun, easy, and ready in under 30 minutes
- Kid-friendly and adult-approved
- Perfect combo of two comfort food favorites
- Customizable for any dietary need or occasion