Description
Loaded Taco Pizza
Add crispy bacon to this taco pizza for an irresistible savory touch!
Ingredients:
1 medium flatbread
1/2 lb ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning
4 slices crispy bacon, crumbled
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup diced onions
Sour cream for topping
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 200°C. Cook ground beef with taco seasoning.
Spread beef on the flatbread, add bacon, and sprinkle cheese.
Bake for 10 minutes.
Top with onions and a dollop of sour cream.
Who’s ready for bacon and tacos?
#BaconTacoPizza
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect Loaded Taco Pizza every time. First, preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). While it heats, brown the 1/2 lb of ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess grease, then add the packet of taco seasoning along with the amount of water specified on the packet. Simmer for 3-5 minutes until thickened. Meanwhile, cook the four bacon slices until very crispy, then drain on paper towels and crumble. Place your medium flatbread on a baking sheet. Evenly spread the seasoned beef over the flatbread, creating your base layer. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the beef, followed by the 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Bake on the middle rack for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly and the flatbread edges are crisp. Remove from the oven and let cool for 2 minutes before adding the final toppings.
Serving Suggestions
This pizza is a complete meal on its own, but you can elevate it with creative sides and toppings. Serve it sliced into wedges alongside a fresh, crisp garden salad with a lime-cilantro dressing to cut through the richness. For extra toppings, set out small bowls of diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, black olives, guacamole, and fresh cilantro. A drizzle of spicy ranch or chipotle sauce makes an excellent alternative to sour cream. For a fun party appetizer, cut the baked pizza into small squares for easy grabbing.
How-to Summary
In short: Cook seasoned beef and crispy bacon. Layer beef, bacon, and cheese on a flatbread. Bake at 200°C for 10 minutes. Finish with fresh onions and sour cream.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different protein? Absolutely. Ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat alternative work perfectly. Just be sure to season it well.
What if I don’t have a flatbread? A pre-baked pizza crust, naan bread, or even a large flour tortilla are great substitutes. Adjust baking time as needed for crispiness.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer to maintain crispness; the microwave will make it soggy.
Can I make it less spicy? Yes. Use a “mild” taco seasoning packet and omit any fresh jalapeños if adding them as an extra topping.
Is it possible to make this ahead of time? You can cook the beef and bacon ahead and store them separately in the fridge. Assemble and bake the pizza just before serving for the best texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Avoid using raw onions under the cheese; they won’t cook through and will be too pungent. Always add them fresh after baking.
- Do not skip pre-cooking the ground beef. Adding raw meat to the pizza will result in a greasy, undercooked mess.
- Ensure your bacon is very crispy before crumbling. Soft bacon will become chewy and rubbery in the oven.
- Do not over-load the flatbread with toppings, as this can make the center soggy and prevent even cooking.
- Avoid baking on a cold baking sheet. Placing the flatbread on a sheet that’s already in the preheating oven helps achieve a crispier crust.
Conclusion
This Loaded Taco Pizza masterfully combines the best of two beloved foods into one easy, customizable meal. With its crispy base, savory seasoned beef, smoky bacon, and cool, fresh toppings, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser for weeknight dinners or game-day gatherings. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common mistakes, you’ll achieve a perfectly balanced pizza every time. Don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorite taco toppings to make it your own. Enjoy the delicious fusion of #BaconTacoPizza!
