If you love the bold flavors of tacos but crave the crispy, cheesy satisfaction of pizza, you are going to adore this Sheet Pan Taco Pizza Recipe. It’s the perfect crossover dish that brings together the best of both worlds on one easy-to-make sheet pan. Imagine a golden, slightly crispy crust smothered with seasoned ground meat, melty cheese, and fresh, vibrant toppings that mimic taco night in every bite. This recipe is quick, fun, and guaranteed to delight everyone at your table, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet purposeful ingredients is key to making this dish pop with flavor and texture. Each component plays a crucial role—from the base crust to the fresh garnishes—so let’s make sure nothing is missed.
- Refrigerated pizza dough or crescent roll dough: Provides a quick and easy crust that bakes up golden and crisp without the fuss of making dough from scratch.
- Ground beef or ground turkey: The heart of the taco toppings—choose based on your preference for a classic or lighter option.
- Taco seasoning packet: Infuses the meat with that unmistakable taco flavor, blending spices like cumin, chili powder, and garlic.
- Water: Helps simmer the taco seasoning into the meat for moist, well-flavored filling.
- Refried beans or salsa (optional): Adds an extra layer of flavor and creaminess directly on the crust if desired.
- Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend): Melts beautifully for that perfect gooey, cheesy texture topping.
- Diced tomatoes: Adds freshness and a juicy pop to balance richer ingredients.
- Shredded lettuce: Brings a crisp, green crunch to each bite.
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt: Adds cool creaminess and a tangy finish.
- Chopped cilantro or green onions (optional): Offers a fresh, herbal note that brightens the whole dish.
How to Make Sheet Pan Taco Pizza Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Par-Bake the Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F, or follow the temperature guidelines on your dough package for best results. Roll out your refrigerated pizza dough or crescent roll dough right onto a greased or parchment-lined sheet pan. Press the dough edge to edge so it covers the pan uniformly. Bake this base for 8 to 10 minutes until it’s just beginning to turn golden and set, creating a sturdy foundation that won’t get soggy from toppings.
Step 2: Cook the Seasoned Meat
While your crust is baking, heat a skillet over medium heat and cook your ground beef or turkey until fully browned. Drain any excess fat to keep things from getting greasy, then stir in a packet of taco seasoning along with 1/4 cup water. Let it simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing those spices to soak into the meat and build that signature taco taste.
Step 3: Layer the Flavors
Once the crust has baked, you can spread a thin layer of refried beans or salsa over it if you like that extra touch of moisture and flavor. Then evenly distribute the seasoned taco meat on top, making sure every inch is covered. Finish this layer by sprinkling a generous 1 1/2 cups of your shredded cheese of choice—it’s what will give you that luscious, melty topping everyone loves.
Step 4: Melt the Cheese
Return the loaded sheet pan to the oven and bake for an additional 5 to 7 minutes. This short bake time allows the cheese to melt into a bubbling, golden blanket that locks in all the taco goodness beneath.
Step 5: Add the Fresh Toppings
After removing your pizza from the oven, give it a few minutes to cool slightly so you don’t wilt the fresh ingredients. Then top the pizza with diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, a drizzle or dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, and sprinkle with optional chopped cilantro or green onions for just the right pop of color and brightness.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Cut into slices and serve immediately while the cheese is warm and stretchy and the toppings are crisp and fresh. This Sheet Pan Taco Pizza Recipe is ready to delight without fuss or delay!
How to Serve Sheet Pan Taco Pizza Recipe
Garnishes
The magic of this pizza doesn’t stop at the oven door—garnishes elevate it from great to unforgettable. Think creamy dollops of sour cream or tangy Greek yogurt, vibrant cilantro leaves, or a scatter of sliced jalapeños if you want to kick the heat up a notch. Each garnish adds texture and flavor contrast that make every bite exciting.
Side Dishes
Keep sides simple to complement this flavor-packed pizza. A crisp green salad with lime vinaigrette, Spanish rice, or a bowl of zesty black beans pairs perfectly. These light accompaniments balance the richness of the pizza while contributing fresh flavors and extra nutrition.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist at parties, cut the pizza into smaller squares for taco-inspired finger foods. You can even serve components separately for a “build your own” taco pizza bar. Setting out bowls of tomatoes, lettuce, cheese, and sour cream allows guests to customize their slices with their favorite toppings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Sheet Pan Taco Pizza Recipe slices store wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the fresh toppings separate until ready to eat helps maintain their crispness and prevents sogginess.
Freezing
If you want to stash some for later, you can freeze the fully baked pizza slices by wrapping them tightly in foil or plastic wrap along with parchment paper between slices. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
For reheating, an oven or toaster oven works best to keep the crust crisp and melt the cheese back to gooey perfection. Heat at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Microwaving is quicker but can make the crust a bit chewy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat for the taco topping?
Absolutely! Ground chicken, pork, or even a plant-based meat substitute would work well. Just brown it thoroughly and season as you would the beef or turkey.
Is it necessary to pre-bake the crust?
Pre-baking the crust ensures it stays crispy and doesn’t soak up too much moisture from the toppings. Skipping this step may result in a softer, sometimes soggy base.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free pizza dough available in many stores or make your own. Ensure taco seasoning and other ingredients are gluten-free certified if you are sensitive.
What’s a good substitute for refried beans or salsa under the meat?
You can skip this layer altogether or try spreading a thin layer of cream cheese mixed with taco seasoning for a creamy twist that still adds moisture and flavor.
How can I make this pizza spicier?
Incorporate diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes into the taco meat or on top before serving. You can also use a hotter taco seasoning or add hot sauce to your sour cream topping.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Sheet Pan Taco Pizza Recipe enough if you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing meal that’s easy, flavorful, and just downright fun. It combines the best elements of tacos and pizza into one glorious dish that’s perfect for dinner any night of the week. Give it a try and watch it become a new favorite at your table!
Print
Sheet Pan Taco Pizza Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Pizza
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Description
This Easy Sheet Pan Taco Pizza combines the bold flavors of taco filling with the convenience of a sheet pan pizza. Using refrigerated pizza dough as a crust, it layers seasoned ground beef, refried beans or salsa, and a blend of melted cheese, then is topped with fresh tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and creamy sour cream or Greek yogurt for a fun, family-friendly meal ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 can refrigerated pizza dough or crescent roll dough
Taco Meat
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/4 cup water
Toppings
- 1/2 cup refried beans or salsa (optional)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp chopped cilantro or green onion (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare crust: Preheat your oven to 375°F (or follow the instructions on your dough package). Roll the refrigerated dough onto a greased or parchment-lined sheet pan, pressing it evenly to the edges. Bake the crust for 8 to 10 minutes or until it turns golden brown.
- Cook taco meat: While the crust bakes, heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef or turkey until browned. Drain excess fat, then add the taco seasoning and 1/4 cup water. Simmer the mixture for 2 to 3 minutes until well combined and flavorful.
- Assemble pizza: If desired, spread refried beans or salsa evenly over the baked crust as a base layer. Next, spread the prepared taco meat on top, then sprinkle with the shredded cheese.
- Melt cheese: Return the pizza to the oven and bake for an additional 5 to 7 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Add fresh toppings: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool slightly. Then, top with diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream or Greek yogurt, and sprinkle with chopped cilantro or green onions if using.
- Serve: Slice the pizza into pieces and serve immediately for a delicious and casual meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Refried beans or salsa are optional but add extra flavor and a moist texture.
- Use your favorite shredded cheese blend to customize the flavor.
- For added heat, consider adding jalapeño slices or a drizzle of hot sauce before serving.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven or microwave.
