Taco Braid

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An Exciting Twist on a Classic: Taco Braid

We all love tacos, right? Whether it’s the classic beef taco, a zesty fish taco, or any other delicious variation, tacos have a special place in our hearts. But what if I told you there’s a fun new way to enjoy them? Introducing the Taco Braid – a delightful fusion of seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and juicy tomatoes, all wrapped up in a braided pizza dough. It’s a creative and tasty twist on the traditional taco that’s sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Taco Braid is not just another taco recipe; it’s an exciting culinary adventure! You’ll love how easy it is to make and how it brings a fresh twist to taco night. The combination of flavors is mouthwatering, and the presentation is sure to wow your family and friends. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy all the taco flavors you love in a new format.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Rimmed baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Large skillet
• Rolling pin
• Pizza cutter

Ingredients

• 1 canister refrigerated pizza crust
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1 lb. Zaycon Fresh 93/7 Super Lean Ground Beef
• 3 tablespoons Homemade Taco Seasoning
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 cup Fiesta Blend shredded cheese, divided
• 1 tomato, diced, plus additional for top, if desired
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cups chopped Romaine lettuce
• Sour cream and taco sauce for serving, if desired

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare a rimmed baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
2. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned.
5. Stir in the taco seasoning and water, mixing until everything is well combined. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes.
6. While the beef is simmering, transfer the parchment paper to your work surface. Roll out the pizza dough to measure 10 x 15 inches.
7. Using a pizza cutter, make 1 1/2-inch wide slices along both long sides of the dough, cutting in about 3 inches.
8. Place the cooked beef mixture down the center of the dough, then sprinkle with 3/4 cup of cheese and add the diced tomato.
9. Start braiding: Fold the end of the dough up, and then wrap the first two slices over it to secure. Continue wrapping the slices until you reach the end.
10. Brush the braid with melted butter and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top if desired.
11. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
12. Let the braid cool slightly before slicing. Serve with chopped Romaine lettuce, sour cream, and taco sauce on the side.

Tips for Success

• Make sure the dough is rolled out evenly to ensure consistent baking.
• Don’t overfill the braid to prevent it from bursting open during baking.
• Let the braid cool a bit before slicing to help maintain its shape.

Additional Tips or Variations

Feel free to get creative with your fillings! You can add black beans, corn, or even jalapeños for a spicy kick. For a vegetarian version, replace the beef with sautéed mushrooms or a bean mixture.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This delightful Taco Braid is packed with flavor and provides a satisfying meal. Each serving is a tasty balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates, perfect for a filling dinner.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make the dough from scratch? Yes, homemade dough works beautifully for this recipe. Just be sure to let it rise properly before rolling it out.

How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Conclusion

So why not give this Taco Braid a try? It’s a fun and delicious way to enjoy all the flavors you love in tacos, wrapped up in a neat, braided package. I’d love to hear how yours turns out, so feel free to share your experience in the comments or on social media. Happy cooking!

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