Taco Pizza Recipe (with Doritos!)

Are you ready to elevate your pizza game? This Taco Pizza Recipe (with Doritos!) combines the best of two beloved dishes into one mouthwatering creation. Picture a perfectly baked pizza crust topped with layers of zesty taco meat, gooey cheese, fresh veggies, and, of course, crunchy Doritos that add an unexpected twist. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy. Let’s dive into making this flavorful masterpiece!

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

This Taco Pizza Recipe (with Doritos!) is not just another pizza night; it’s a delightful fusion that brings all the flavors of taco night to your table in a new and exciting way. The combination of savory meat, creamy cheese, and the satisfying crunch of Doritos creates a texture explosion that will keep everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s customizable! You can tweak the toppings based on your preferences or what you have on hand. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for parties, family dinners, or just a fun night in.

The Essentials

To prepare this delicious Taco Pizza Recipe (with Doritos!), gather the following ingredients:

• 1 pound pizza dough – You can use store-bought or homemade.
• 1 cup mild southwest salsa – This will be your sauce base.
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, grated – For that gooey, melty texture.
• 1/2 cup black beans – Drained and rinsed, these add protein and fiber.
• 1/2 pound taco meat – Ground turkey or beef, seasoned to perfection.
• 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, grated – For an extra cheesy kick.
• 1 1/2 cups iceberg lettuce, shredded – A fresh, crunchy topping.
• 2 whole Roma tomatoes, diced – Fresh and flavorful.
• Cilantro – Optional, for garnish.
• 1 cup Doritos, crushed – The secret weapon for crunch!
• Bolthouse cilantro avocado dressing – A delicious dressing to drizzle on top.

Appliances & Accessories

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following tools ready:

• Baking sheet or pizza stone – For baking your pizza to crispy perfection.
• Mixing bowls – To prepare your ingredients.
• Rolling pin – For rolling out your pizza dough.
• Spatula – To help transfer the pizza.
• Oven – Preheat to ensure a perfectly baked crust.

Build Taco Pizza Recipe (with Doritos!) Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Pizza Dough

Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C). If you’re using store-bought pizza dough, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes. This makes it easier to roll out. If you’re making your own dough, prepare it according to your favorite recipe.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough

On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a circular shape, approximately 12 inches in diameter. If you prefer a thicker crust, keep it a bit thicker. Transfer the rolled-out dough to a baking sheet or pizza stone.

Step 3: Add the Salsa

Spread the mild southwest salsa evenly over the pizza dough, leaving about an inch of space around the edges for the crust. This salsa will serve as your flavorful base.

Step 4: Layer the Cheese

Sprinkle 1 cup of grated mozzarella cheese over the salsa. This will help bind everything together and create that cheesy goodness we all love.

Step 5: Add the Taco Meat

Evenly distribute the cooked taco meat over the cheese layer. Make sure to break it up into small, bite-sized pieces so every slice has a bit of meat.

Step 6: Add Black Beans

Next, sprinkle the black beans over the taco meat. They add a nice texture and flavor that complements the other ingredients.

Step 7: Top with More Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the entire pizza. The more cheese, the better!

Step 8: Bake the Pizza

Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.

Step 9: Add Fresh Toppings

Once the pizza is out of the oven, let it cool for a couple of minutes. Then, top it with shredded iceberg lettuce, diced Roma tomatoes, and crushed Doritos for that satisfying crunch.

Step 10: Drizzle with Dressing

Finish your Taco Pizza Recipe (with Doritos!) by drizzling Bolthouse cilantro avocado dressing over the top. This adds a fresh, creamy element that ties all the flavors together.

Swap Guide

If you want to customize your Taco Pizza Recipe (with Doritos!), consider these swaps:

• Meat: Use ground chicken or plant-based meat for a lighter option.
• Beans: Swap black beans for pinto beans or refried beans.
• Cheese: Try pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.
• Veggies: Add jalapeños, bell peppers, or corn for extra flavor.
• Dressing: Use ranch or a spicy chipotle dressing for a different twist.

What I Learned Testing

• Pre-baking the crust for 5 minutes before adding toppings can help achieve a crispier base.
• Using a pizza stone rather than a baking sheet can enhance the crust’s texture.
• Don’t skimp on the Doritos! Their crunch adds a unique texture that’s hard to replicate.
• Fresh toppings should be added after baking to maintain their crispness and flavor.

Storage & Reheat Guide

If you have leftovers (which is rare, but it happens!), store the pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through. This will help maintain the crust’s crispiness.

Common Questions

Can I use a different type of dough for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use whole wheat dough, gluten-free dough, or even a cauliflower crust for a lighter option.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Simply omit the taco meat and add more beans or vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to enhance the flavors.

Can I freeze the leftover pizza?

Yes! To freeze, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven.

What should I serve with Taco Pizza?

This Taco Pizza Recipe (with Doritos!) pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some fresh guacamole and chips for a complete meal.

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Serve & Enjoy

Once everything is assembled, slice up your Taco Pizza Recipe (with Doritos!) and serve it hot. Gather around with friends or family, and watch as this unique dish becomes the star of your meal. The combination of flavors and textures will have everyone asking for your secret recipe. Enjoy every cheesy, crunchy bite!

Taco Pizza Recipe (with Doritos!) is not just a meal; it’s an experience. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to impress with this easy and delicious recipe. Your taste buds will thank you!