Have you ever found yourself craving the comforting flavors of pizza, the juicy delight of a burger, and the fun convenience of tacos all at once? I certainly have! That’s when I decided to craft the ultimate fusion dish: the EPIC Pizza Smash Burger Tacos. This recipe takes the best of all three worlds, merging savory ground beef with melty cheese, zesty pepperoni, and colorful veggies, all encased in a crispy tortilla.
Perfect for a weeknight dinner when time is tight yet you want something exciting, these tacos are not only kid-friendly but also free from eggs and nuts, making them an excellent option for various dietary needs. Picture the delightful sound of the sizzle of beef cooking, inviting flavors wafting through your kitchen, and your family gathered around the table, ready to dive into a meal they’ll rave about. Let’s get cooking and bring this incredible taste sensation to your dining table!
Why will you love these EPIC Pizza Smash Burger Tacos?
Unique fusion: This recipe perfectly combines the flavors of pizza, burgers, and tacos for a meal that feels truly special.
Kid-friendly: Everyone, even picky eaters, will love these tasty tacos, making it a hit at family dinners.
Quick and easy: With straightforward steps and minimal prep, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time.
Versatile options: Customize your tacos with various fillings, cheese choices, or even spice levels for a meal that suits your family’s preferences.
Healthy twist: Made with lean ground beef and fresh ingredients, these tacos can easily fit into a balanced diet. You might also enjoy some delightful side options like a fresh salad or sweet potato fries, making your dinner complete!
EPIC Pizza Smash Burger Taco Ingredients
For the Filling
- Ground Beef – Provides the protein and heartiness; opt for lean ground beef for a healthier choice.
- Italian Seasoning – Adds a robust flavor profile that echoes Italian cuisine; substitute with oregano or Italian herb mix if unavailable.
- Onion – Adds sweetness and depth when caramelized; yellow or white onions work best.
- Bell Pepper – Contributes color and crunch; use any variety like red, green, or yellow for different sweetness levels.
- Pasta Sauce – Serves as a pizza sauce topping; can be substituted with marinara sauce for a fresh flavor.
- Pepperoni – Offers classic pizza taste; turkey or vegan pepperoni can be used for alternative diets.
- Mozzarella Cheese – Provides the melty, cheesy layer on top of the beef and toppings; part-skim mozzarella is a lighter option.
For the Tortillas
- Tortillas – Encases all ingredients; corn or flour tortillas can be used based on preference.
These EPIC Pizza Smash Burger Tacos will surely be a crowd-pleaser! Happy cooking!
How to Make EPIC Pizza Smash Burger Tacos
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Warm Pasta Sauce: In a small pot, warm 2/3 cup of pasta sauce over low heat to ensure a comforting base for your tacos. Stir occasionally for about 5 minutes until heated through.
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Prep Vegetables: In a large bowl, toss chopped onion and bell pepper with a drizzle of olive oil and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. This adds flavor and helps them caramelize beautifully.
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Caramelize Vegetables: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat, cooking the seasoned vegetables for about 8-10 minutes until they’re soft and golden brown. Remove and set aside to maintain their deliciousness.
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Season Beef: In the same bowl, mix the ground beef with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
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Create Smash Burgers: Increase the skillet heat to medium-high, shape the beef into balls, and smash them into thin patties. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until browned and juicy.
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Add Toppings: After flipping the burgers, layer the caramelized vegetables, slices of pepperoni, and sprinkle a generous amount of mozzarella cheese on top. Cover for about 3-4 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Prep Tortillas: Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds on each side or serve them at room temperature, making them pliable and ready for filling.
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Assemble Tacos: Place the gooey cheese-topped burger patty on a tortilla, add a spoonful of the warm pasta sauce, and sprinkle with parmesan. Serve these beauties immediately for the best experience!
Optional: For added crunch, top tacos with fresh arugula or spinach.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with EPIC Pizza Smash Burger Tacos?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing these fusion tacos with delightful accompaniments that enhance their vibrant flavors.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the tacos.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy, sweet potato fries offer a delightful contrast to the savory filling and add a touch of sweetness.
- Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the flavors of the pasta sauce, making each bite even more enjoyable.
- Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw brings a tangy zip and crunch, perfectly complementing the juicy tacos with a refreshing bite.
Pairing these sides with your EPIC Pizza Smash Burger Tacos creates a well-rounded meal that your family will absolutely love!
EPIC Pizza Smash Burger Taco Variations
Feel free to get creative with these tasty taco variations to suit your family’s preferences and dietary needs!
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Vegetarian: Replace the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative for a meat-free delight. You’ll still enjoy that hearty texture!
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Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or chili flakes to the beef or as a topping for an extra layer of heat that’ll excite your taste buds.
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Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack to add new flavor dimensions; each cheese brings its own delightful twist!
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Low-Carb Option: Use large lettuce leaves instead of tortillas for a fresh, crispy, low-carb wrap that’s just as satisfying.
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Herb Burst: Toss in fresh herbs like basil or oregano with the vegetables before caramelizing them for a refreshing, aromatic twist.
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Different Meats: Try swapping pepperoni with prosciutto or cooked bacon bits for a rich and indulgent flavor experience.
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Crunchy Toppings: Add crushed tortilla chips or crispy onions on top just before serving for an irresistible crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft textures below.
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Sweet Touch: Top with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of balsamic glaze for a sweet-savory finish that elevates the flavor profile even further.
Let your imagination run wild in the kitchen, and enjoy these scrumptious variations!
Expert Tips for EPIC Pizza Smash Burger Tacos
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Vegetable Caramelization: Avoid overcrowding the skillet when cooking vegetables. This ensures they caramelize evenly and develop that sweet, rich flavor.
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Crispier Tortillas: For a satisfying crunch, briefly fry the tortillas in a bit of oil before assembly. It enhances the overall taco experience.
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Beef Safety: Make sure the ground beef reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. This ensures the meat is safe and fully cooked, avoiding any health risks.
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Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for unique flavor profiles. Just remember, the keyword here is EPIC!
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Serving Hot: Serve the tacos immediately after assembling for the best texture and taste. The gooey cheese and warm fillings are simply irresistible!
How to Store and Freeze EPIC Pizza Smash Burger Tacos
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Fridge: Keep leftover tacos in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet to maintain the crispy tortilla texture.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze assembled tacos by wrapping each one tightly in plastic wrap, then sealing them in a freezer bag. They can last up to 2 months.
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Reheating: Remove tacos from the freezer and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Warm them in a skillet for a few minutes until heated through and crispy again.
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Storage Tip: For best flavor retention, separate the paste sauce and toppings if storing leftovers, as this will help maintain the taco’s integrity when reheating.
Make Ahead Options
These EPIC Pizza Smash Burger Tacos are perfect for meal prepping, making weeknight dinners a breeze! You can prepare the filling (ground beef, vegetables, and toppings) up to 24 hours in advance; just cook the beef and vegetables, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This keeps all the flavors intact and ensures a juicy filling when you’re ready to assemble. When it’s time to eat, simply heat the filling in a skillet until warmed through, then load it into warmed tortillas with your favorite toppings. This step saves you precious time while still delivering a deliciously satisfying meal the whole family will love!
EPIC Pizza Smash Burger Tacos Recipe FAQs
What type of ground beef should I use for the tacos?
Absolutely! Opt for lean ground beef to keep your tacos heartier yet healthier. Ground beef with 80% lean meat to 20% fat is ideal for a juicy texture without being too greasy.
How should I store leftovers from the EPIC Pizza Smash Burger Tacos?
Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat to bring back that crispy tortilla texture. Just remember, the fresher, the better!
Can I freeze the assembled tacos, and how long do they last?
Yes, indeed! To freeze your EPIC Pizza Smash Burger Tacos, wrap each taco tightly in plastic wrap and pack them into a freezer bag. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the fridge overnight for best results.
How can I ensure the vegetables are adequately caramelized?
Great question! To caramelize your vegetables perfectly, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Heat your skillet over medium heat and give them 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. When they’re beautifully golden and soft, they’re ready to elevate your tacos!
Are there any dietary considerations for the EPIC Pizza Smash Burger Tacos?
Absolutely! These tacos are kid-friendly, egg-free, and nut-free, making them perfect for those with allergies. You can also customize them with turkey or vegan pepperoni for varying dietary needs. Feel free to experiment, the more the merrier!
What’s the best way to reheat frozen tacos?
For the best results when reheating frozen EPIC Pizza Smash Burger Tacos, remove them from the freezer and thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Then, warm them gently in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, until heated through and crispy again. Enjoy that delightful crunch!
Savor EPIC Pizza Smash Burger Tacos for Ultimate Flavor Fun
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small pot, warm 2/3 cup of pasta sauce over low heat for about 5 minutes until heated through.
- In a large bowl, toss chopped onion and bell pepper with a drizzle of olive oil and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the seasoned vegetables for about 8-10 minutes until soft and golden brown.
- In the same bowl, mix the ground beef with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning.
- Increase skillet heat to medium-high, shape the beef into balls, smash into thin patties, and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side.
- After flipping the burgers, layer the caramelized vegetables, slices of pepperoni, and mozzarella cheese on top. Cover for 3-4 minutes until the cheese melts.
- Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds on each side.
- Assemble tacos by placing a cheese-topped burger patty on a tortilla, adding warm pasta sauce, and sprinkling with parmesan. Serve immediately.