If you love the irresistible combination of cheesy, savory tacos and the comforting, golden crust of pizza, then you are absolutely going to adore this Beef and Cheese Pizza Crust Taco Rolls Recipe. Each bite bursts with seasoned ground beef, melted cheddar and mozzarella, and the perfect hint of Italian herbs wrapped in soft, pillowy pizza dough rolled into fun, snackable rolls. They’re easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and perfect whether you’re feeding the family on a weeknight or looking for the ultimate game day appetizer. Trust me, this is one recipe that’s bound to become your new go-to, packing all your favorite flavors into every scrumptious bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients come together beautifully to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture. Each element is essential, whether it’s to season the beef perfectly, bring richness with cheeses, or build that soft yet crispy roll of dough.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty foundation packed with savory flavor.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and extra depth.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic warmth to the beef mixture.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Provides a gentle smoky kick.
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin: Earthy and warming spice that enhances the taco vibe.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds a bit of color and mild peppery flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances all the flavors beautifully.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: A touch of heat and sharpness.
- 1 package refrigerated pizza dough (about 13.8 ounces): Soft, stretchy base that crisps up wonderfully in the oven.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharpness and melty texture that taco lovers crave.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Gooey, stretchy goodness for cheesy perfection.
- 1/4 cup pizza sauce or marinara: Tangy, slightly sweet layer beneath the beef.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing and adding richness.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional): Adds an herby, aromatic note to elevate the rolls.
- Sour cream or salsa for serving: Perfect finishing touches that complement the flavor and add freshness.
How to Make Beef and Cheese Pizza Crust Taco Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture
Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in your finely chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, around three minutes—this step unlocks sweetness that plays beautifully with the spices. Add your minced garlic and let it cook for just 30 seconds, just long enough to release its aromatic punch without burning. Next, add the ground beef, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper while breaking up the meat as it cooks. Cook until your beef is completely browned and no longer pink, then drain any excess fat to keep the rolls delicious and not greasy.
Step 2: Roll Out the Dough and Add Sauce
On a lightly floured surface, gently roll out the refrigerated pizza dough into a rectangle roughly 12 by 10 inches. It should be big enough to hold all that tasty filling while still easy to roll. Spread a thin, even layer of pizza sauce across the dough, leaving about a one-inch border around the edges to prevent overflow. This sauce layer adds a light tang and moisture that balances the richness of the beef and cheese perfectly.
Step 3: Layer the Beef and Cheese
Evenly distribute the cooked beef mixture over the sauce, spreading it out gently but completely so every bite has a good balance. Sprinkle the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly on top, then if you like, dust the surface with Italian seasoning for an extra herby layer of flavor that ties the whole dish together nicely.
Step 4: Roll and Slice
Starting at the long side closest to you, carefully roll the dough up into a tight log, tucking the filling as you go to avoid spills. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into one-inch rolls. Each slice will reveal beautiful layers of dough, sauce, beef, and cheese all rolled up tight and ready to transform into golden bites.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Melty
Place the sliced rolls cut side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet, giving them a little space to expand. Bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 to 20 minutes, watching for that glorious golden-brown crust and perfectly melted cheese. When they come out of the oven, let them cool just a bit so the cheese sets slightly, and they’re easy and safe to handle.
How to Serve Beef and Cheese Pizza Crust Taco Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
These taco rolls are fantastic with a dollop of cool sour cream or a splash of fresh salsa right on top or on the side. A sprinkle of chopped cilantro or green onions also adds a punch of color and freshness that makes everything pop, brightening each bite in the best way.
Side Dishes
Pair your Beef and Cheese Pizza Crust Taco Rolls with classic sides like a crisp green salad, some zesty guacamole, or even baked tortilla chips for a fiesta-worthy spread. They also go surprisingly well with simple roasted veggies or Mexican street corn if you want to keep things cozy and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or family gatherings, arrange the rolls on a large platter with bowls of assorted dips—creamy ranch, spicy salsa, or even a cheesy queso. You can also thread a toothpick into each roll for easy grab-and-go snacking. Another fun presentation idea is to serve the rolls deconstructed alongside some fresh lettuce leaves, letting guests build mini taco “wraps” themselves.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover Beef and Cheese Pizza Crust Taco Rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay tasty for up to three days and are perfect for reheating the next day as a quick snack or light meal.
Freezing
If you want to make these ahead in batches, slice the rolled dough but place the rolls on a baking sheet and freeze individually until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can bake fresh rolls anytime without any prep hassle. They keep well frozen for up to two months.
Reheating
To reheat, place your rolls on a baking sheet and warm in a 350 degree Fahrenheit oven for about 10 minutes until heated through and crispy on the outside again. You can also microwave them for about 30 seconds if you’re in a rush, but you’ll lose a bit of that crusty magic.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pizza dough for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade dough works wonderfully if you want to add your personal touch or prefer fresh-made dough. Just roll it out to the same size and thickness for similar results.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat substitute or sautéed vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers. The cheese and seasonings will still deliver plenty of flavor.
How spicy are these taco rolls?
The recipe as written is mildly spiced with chili powder and cumin, making it accessible to most palates. If you love heat, you can easily add hot sauce or chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture before rolling.
Can I prepare these in advance and bake later?
Definitely! Assemble the rolls, slice them, and keep them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes dinner prep super convenient.
What’s the best way to serve leftover rolls for lunch?
Leftover rolls are delicious cold or reheated—pack them alongside some fresh veggies or a crisp salad for a balanced and satisfying lunch box treat.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Beef and Cheese Pizza Crust Taco Rolls Recipe enough for anyone who loves easy, flavorful, and satisfying food that brings everyone to the table smiling. With simple ingredients and a not-so-simple flavor punch, it’s a dish that turns casual dinners into a celebration. Give this recipe a try, share it with friends, and watch it become a beloved classic in your home.
Print
Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 rolls
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Beef and Cheese Pizza Crust Taco Rolls combine the savory flavors of seasoned ground beef and melted cheeses wrapped in a crispy pizza dough roll. Perfect as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a fun, flavorful main dish, these easy-to-make rolls bring together the best elements of tacos and pizza in a convenient handheld form. Served warm with sour cream or salsa, they’re great for game days, parties, or a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Beef Filling
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Roll Base and Toppings
- 1 package refrigerated pizza dough (about 13.8 ounces)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup pizza sauce or marinara
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
Serving Suggestions
- Sour cream or salsa, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat oven and prepare baking sheet: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Sauté onion and garlic: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to release its aroma.
- Cook the ground beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet with chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Break up the meat with a spoon and cook until it is fully browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat and remove the skillet from heat.
- Roll out the pizza dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll the pizza dough into a rectangular shape approximately 12 by 10 inches, creating an even thickness for easy rolling later.
- Assemble the roll: Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges. Distribute the cooked beef mixture evenly over the sauce, then sprinkle with shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Add Italian seasoning if desired for extra flavor.
- Roll and slice: Starting from the long edge, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log shape. Use a sharp knife to slice the rolled log into 1-inch thick pieces to form individual taco rolls.
- Bake the rolls: Place the slices cut side up on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and the cheese has melted beautifully.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with sour cream or salsa on the side.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the beef mixture before cooking.
- These taco rolls make a great party appetizer or a fun meal for game day and weeknight dinners.
- If preferred, swap out cheddar and mozzarella for your favorite cheeses to customize flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven to retain crispiness.
