Pepperoni Pizza Tacos are a fun fusion of Italian and Mexican flavors, combining the crispy crunch of taco shells with the gooey, cheesy goodness of pizza. These handheld delights are perfect for busy weeknights, game nights, or casual gatherings. With layers of savory pepperoni, rich pizza sauce, and melted mozzarella, every bite delivers a satisfying mix of textures and flavors. The best part? They’re quick to make and endlessly customizable!
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 1 lb Italian sausage, removed from casings
- 4 oz pepperoni, sliced and quartered
- 1 cup pizza sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Tacos
- 10-12 hard taco shells
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup ricotta cheese (optional)
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
For Garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Crushed red pepper flakes
- Extra fresh basil
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Filling
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
- Cook for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned.
- Drain excess fat and return the skillet to heat.
- Stir in pepperoni slices, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes.
- Pour in pizza sauce and mix well.
- Let the mixture simmer for 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 2: Assemble the Tacos
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange taco shells on a baking sheet.
- Spoon the sausage and pepperoni mixture into each shell.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the filling.
- Add small dollops of ricotta cheese for extra creaminess (optional).
Step 3: Bake and Serve
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh basil, Parmesan cheese, and crushed red pepper flakes.
- Serve warm and enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness!
Tips for the Perfect Pepperoni Pizza Tacos
- Use high-quality pizza sauce for the best flavor.
- Toast the taco shells slightly before filling to enhance their crunch.
- Experiment with toppings like olives, mushrooms, or jalapeños.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the oven for best texture.
These Pepperoni Pizza Tacos are a creative, delicious way to enjoy the best of both worlds—pizza and tacos! Whether you’re making them for a party or a quick dinner, they’re sure to be a hit. 🍕🌮✨
For more variations, check out this recipe or this one!