Name: Beef and Cheese Pizza Crust Taco Rolls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 37 min
Ingredients: 1 pound pizza dough; 1 pound ground beef; 2 tablespoons taco seasoning; 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese; ½ cup diced red and yellow bell peppers; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Fresh cilantro for garnish

If you’re searching for a delightful meal that fuses two beloved favorites, look no further than these irresistible Beef and Cheese Pizza Crust Taco Rolls. This dish encapsulates everything we love about both tacos and pizza, creating a fun and flavorful treat that’s perfect for any gathering or weeknight dinner. Imagine soft, golden pizza dough wrapped around a savory filling of seasoned ground beef, melted cheddar cheese, and vibrant bell peppers. Each bite offers a lovely balance of textures and flavors, making this a truly unique culinary experience.

What makes these Beef and Cheese Pizza Crust Taco Rolls so appealing is not only their fantastic taste but also their simplicity and versatility. They’re incredibly easy to make, coming together quickly in just a few steps, which means you can whip them up for family dinners or casual get-togethers without breaking a sweat. Plus, they can be customized with your favorite taco toppings, whether you prefer extra spices, diverse cheese blends, or additional veggies. The result is a satisfying dish that caters to all kinds of palates.

Why You’ll Love This Beef and Cheese Pizza Crust Taco Rolls

Easy to Prepare: These taco rolls come together quickly, perfect for busy weeknights.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite taco toppings or extra spices to the beef mixture.
Perfect for Sharing: Great for parties, gatherings, or game day, everyone will love these tasty rolls.
Kid-Friendly: A fun way to introduce children to new flavors, and they make for a great lunchbox treat.
Freezable: Prepare a batch and freeze for easy meal prep; bake directly from the freezer!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you dive into making these delicious Beef and Cheese Pizza Crust Taco Rolls, it’s essential to set up your kitchen for success. Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring it reaches the right temperature for even cooking. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate clean-up.

On your kitchen counter, create a clean workspace by gathering all the necessary ingredients: pizza dough, ground beef, taco seasoning, cheddar cheese, diced bell peppers, and olive oil. A rolling pin will be handy for rolling out the dough, so have that close by as well!

Once everything is in place, you’re ready to start. Remember to use a skillet for browning the beef, as a non-stick skillet will help in making the cooking process smoother. Having measuring cups and spoons on hand will also be beneficial for accurate ingredient portions.

Ingredients

1 pound pizza dough
1 pound ground beef
2 tablespoons taco seasoning
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup diced red and yellow bell peppers
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that when your rolls are ready, they won’t have to wait long before they can bake and reach their golden state. Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper, which serves as an excellent non-stick surface, making it easier to remove the taco rolls later and simplifying the cleanup process.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

In a skillet, place your ground beef over medium heat. As it cooks, break it apart with a spatula or wooden spoon. Stir it occasionally to ensure it cooks evenly, and keep an eye on it until it’s thoroughly browned and no pink remains. Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat to avoid oily rolls. This is a crucial step, as you want your filling to be rich and flavorful without being greasy!

Step 3: Season and Combine

After the beef has cooled slightly, sprinkle in the taco seasoning and mix thoroughly, ensuring every bit of meat is infused with flavor. To add a delightful crunch and a burst of color, fold in the diced bell peppers and shredded cheddar cheese. This mixture is the heart of your rolls, so err on the side of seasoning to your preference, making sure every bite has that wonderful taco flair.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

Take the pizza dough and place it onto a lightly floured surface. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough into a rectangle approximately ¼ inch thick. Keep your surface floured to prevent sticking. Ensuring this shape allows the filling to be evenly distributed when you roll it up.

Step 5: Fill and Roll

Now comes the fun part! Spread the seasoned beef mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. This prevents the filling from spilling out while baking. Once spread evenly, gently roll the dough tightly from the longer side to form a log. Make sure to keep it snug but not too tight, as the dough needs some space to expand while baking.

Step 6: Slice and Bake

Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 1-inch spirals. This should yield perfect bite-sized pieces that are easy to serve. Place the rolls cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave some space between them so they have room to expand. Brush the top of each roll with olive oil, enhancing flavor and encouraging a golden-brown finish during baking. Slide the tray into the oven and let bake for 18–22 minutes or until the rolls are bubbly and golden on top.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, take your rolls out of the oven and let them cool for a minute or two. Before serving, adorn them with fresh, chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness. Serve these delightful rolls warm alongside your favorite dipping sauces, and watch as everyone savors the fusion of taco and pizza!

Variations

Protein: Substitute ground beef with turkey, chicken, or a plant-based protein for a healthier or vegetarian option.
Vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or onion into the filling for added nutrition and flavor.
Spices: Add extra spices such as cumin, chili powder, or diced jalapeños for a more robust flavor profile.

Cooking Notes

Always check the expiration date of taco seasoning for maximum freshness and flavor.
Let the pizza dough sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before rolling; this makes it more pliable.
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack to create your ultimate flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for dipping to elevate the flavor experience.
Serve with a refreshing salad for a light accompaniment to balance the rich flavors of the rolls.

Tips

If you want extra crispy rolls, consider placing them under the broiler for the last few minutes of cooking, watching closely to prevent burning.
You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days, making the assembly quicker on the day you plan to bake.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 22 minutes
Total Time: 37 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 320 per serving
Protein: 20 grams
Sodium: 650 milligrams

FAQs

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the rolls up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time when you bake them cold.

What can I serve these taco rolls with?

These rolls pair wonderfully with a variety of dips including salsa, guacamole, and sour cream. Additionally, a fresh green salad can accompany the dish nicely.

Can I freeze unbaked rolls?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked rolls! Place them on a baking sheet until frozen solid, and then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you want to enjoy them, bake straight from the freezer, adding a few minutes to the cooking time.

How do I store leftovers?

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving again.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these Beef and Cheese Pizza Crust Taco Rolls are not only a delicious fusion of two popular dishes, but they also present endless opportunities for customization and creativity in the kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a family dinner, or looking for a quick meal, these rolls are sure to impress with their flavorful filling and convenient portioning. We encourage you to try your hand at this recipe, experiment with different ingredients, and perhaps make them your own culinary delight. If you enjoy making these taco rolls, don’t forget to comment below with your thoughts or share your favorite variations! Happy cooking!