Pepperoni Pizza Tacos

Pepperoni Pizza Tacos combine your favorite pizza flavors with the fun of tacos. A cheesy, meaty, crispy delight you’ll crave every week!

Why You’ll Love These Pepperoni Pizza Tacos

What happens when you take the best parts of pizza—the melty cheese, the zesty sauce, and the iconic pepperoni—and stuff them into warm, crispy taco shells? Pure magic. These Pepperoni Pizza Tacos are a crave-worthy mashup that’s quick enough for weeknights and crowd-pleasing enough for game day. Whether you’re team hard shell or soft, this recipe is a winner from the very first bite.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet
• Spoon or spatula
• Cutting board & knife
• Measuring spoons
• Baking sheet (optional, for melting cheese)
• Oven or microwave (for warming shells)

Ingredients

• 8–10 taco shells (hard or soft, your choice)
• 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce or pizza sauce
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or more mozzarella if preferred)
• 3–4 oz pepperoni slices
• Optional toppings: diced bell peppers, sliced jalapeños, olives, mushrooms

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Meat Filling

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef (or Italian sausage). Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat.
3. Add chopped onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
4. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
5. Pour in the tomato or pizza sauce. Add oregano, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
6. Let the mixture simmer gently for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally to thicken and build flavor.

2. Prepare the Taco Shells

• Hard shells: Warm them in the oven or according to package instructions.
• Soft shells: Warm in a skillet or microwave until soft and pliable.

3. Assemble the Tacos

1. Spoon the meat filling into each shell.
2. Top with shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
3. Place a few pepperoni slices on top.
4. Add your favorite optional toppings like jalapeños or olives.

4. Bake (Optional but Recommended)

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Arrange the tacos on a baking sheet.
3. Bake for 5–10 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot with a side of marinara or extra pizza sauce for dipping.

Tips for Perfect Pizza Tacos

• Texture Tip: For crispier taco shells, bake them a few minutes before assembling.
• Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper or a drizzle of hot honey if you like heat.
• Prevent Sogginess: Drain the meat well before adding the sauce. It helps the tacos stay crisp.

Delicious Variations

• Protein Swap: Try ground turkey, shredded chicken, or even plant-based crumbles.
• Cheese Lovers: Use a pizza blend, provolone, or pepper jack for variety.
• Veggie Delight: Add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to the filling.
• Sauce Switch: Use white pizza sauce or pesto for a gourmet twist.
• Make It a Bar: Set up a taco station so everyone can build their own pizza taco.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover meat filling and toppings in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Keep shells separate to avoid sogginess.
• Reheating: Reheat meat in a skillet or microwave. Assemble tacos fresh and bake or broil briefly to melt the cheese.

Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Taco)

• Calories: 330
• Protein: 18g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 3g

Values will vary depending on shell type and toppings used.

Prep and Cook Times

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 8–10 tacos

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these tacos ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the filling in advance and store it in the fridge. Assemble and bake the tacos just before serving for the best texture.

Are they kid-friendly?
Absolutely. Kids love the cheesy, pepperoni-filled goodness. Let them customize their own!

What’s the best shell to use?
Both hard and soft shells work great. Soft shells are easier to stuff, while hard shells offer that satisfying crunch.

Can I freeze the meat filling?
Yes. Cool completely and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before using.

Final Thoughts

These Pepperoni Pizza Tacos are everything you love about pizza—cheesy, savory, customizable—but with a fun taco twist. They’re perfect for quick dinners, casual get-togethers, or anytime you need a comfort food fix that doesn’t skimp on flavor.