Description
This Taco Braid recipe combines seasoned ground beef, refried beans, salsa, and cheddar cheese wrapped in a flaky braided pizza dough, baked to a golden perfection. It’s a delicious and visually appealing dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a fun twist on traditional tacos all in one convenient braid.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Seasoning
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning
- 1 cup water
Fillings
- 1 can (15 ounces) refried beans
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup salsa
Dough
- 1 can (13.8 ounces) refrigerated Pillsbury Pizza Dough (or homemade pizza dough)
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef: Unravel the pizza dough and let it rest on a greased cookie sheet while you brown the ground beef. Cook the beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until fully browned. Drain any excess grease. Add the taco seasoning and 1 cup of water to the beef. Mix well and let it simmer on low heat for 5 to 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Shape and Cut Dough: Once the dough has rested and reached room temperature, shape it into a large rectangle on the cookie sheet. Using a pizza cutter or knife, carefully cut one-inch strips down along both sides of the rectangle, leaving the center intact where the filling will go.
- Layer the Fillings: Spread the refried beans evenly down the center of the dough. Next, spread the seasoned ground beef on top of the beans. Drizzle the salsa over the meat layer, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, ensuring a balanced distribution of ingredients.
- Braid the Dough: Starting at one end, begin braiding the one-inch strips of dough over the filling, alternating sides to create a visually appealing braid that seals the fillings inside.
- Bake the Taco Braid: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the braided dough in the oven and bake for 20 minutes or until the dough is golden brown and cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the taco braid from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Slice into portions and serve warm. Enjoy your deliciously braided taco meal!
Notes
- Letting the pizza dough rest at room temperature makes it easier to shape and braid.
- You can customize the filling by adding diced onions, jalapeños, or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
- If you prefer a milder taste, choose mild salsa, or switch to hot salsa for more spice.
- This recipe can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking; just add a few extra minutes to baking time if baking cold.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or additional beans and vegetables.
