Are you ready to take your taco game to the next level? Look no further than this mouthwatering Taco Braid recipe. Bursting with savory flavors and wrapped in a golden-brown crust, this dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends alike. Whether you’re hosting a game night or simply craving a fun twist on taco night, this Taco Braid will satisfy your taste buds and leave you craving more. Join us as we dive into the world of Tex-Mex cuisine and learn how to create this irresistible dish in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Ground beef
- 1/2 cup Chopped onion
- 2 cups Chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 Tomato, diced
- Taco sauce
- 3 tbsp Homemade taco seasoning
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 Refrigerated pizza crust
- 2 tbsp Melted butter
- 1 cup Fiesta blend shredded cheese
- Sour cream (for serving)
- 1/2 cup Water
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add chopped onions and cook until translucent. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
- Season the Beef: Add homemade taco seasoning and water to the skillet with the cooked ground beef. Stir well to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Dough: Roll out the refrigerated pizza crust onto the prepared baking sheet. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, make diagonal cuts along each side of the dough, leaving a strip in the center uncut.
- Add the Fillings: Spoon the cooked taco meat down the center strip of the pizza dough. Top with chopped romaine lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and a drizzle of taco sauce.
- Braid the Dough: Starting at one end, fold the strips of dough over the filling, alternating sides to create a braided pattern. Continue until all strips are folded over the filling, tucking the ends under to seal.
- Brush with Butter: Brush the top of the taco braid with melted butter for a golden finish.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the taco braid from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. Serve with additional taco sauce and sour cream on the side.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for your favorite meat alternative or a combination of black beans and corn for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Customize the Fillings: Get creative with your fillings by adding sliced jalapeños, black olives, diced avocado, or green onions for extra flavor and texture.
- Spice it Up: Adjust the level of heat by adding more or less taco seasoning, or incorporating diced green chilies or hot sauce for a fiery kick.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use store-bought taco seasoning? Yes, you can substitute store-bought taco seasoning for homemade. However, homemade seasoning allows you to control the flavor and adjust the spice level to your preference.
- Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the taco braid ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out.
- How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover taco braid in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through before serving.
Keto and Low Carb Versions:
For a keto-friendly or low-carb version of Taco Braid, substitute the pizza crust with a homemade or store-bought low-carb crust made from almond flour or coconut flour. Replace the taco sauce with a sugar-free alternative, and omit the tomatoes to reduce the carb content.
In conclusion, Taco Braid is a delicious and versatile dish that brings the flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine to life in a fun and creative way. With its flaky crust, savory filling, and cheesy topping, it’s sure to become a new family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for game day, movie night, or a casual dinner, this Taco Braid is guaranteed to impress. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a taste of Tex-Mex perfection!
