Taco Braid

This Easy Taco Braid is a delicious twist on traditional tacos, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. The delightful combination of savory seasoned beef, creamy refried beans, and gooey cheese wrapped in pizza dough makes it not only appealing but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a game night or looking for a fun weeknight meal, this Taco Braid is sure to impress with its unique presentation and mouthwatering flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 25 minutes of prep time, you can have a scrumptious meal ready in no time.
• Family Favorite: The combination of beef, cheese, and beans wrapped in dough is loved by kids and adults alike.
• Customizable Filling: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients like peppers or corn to personalize your Taco Braid.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it.
• Great for Leftovers: Enjoy the leftovers for lunch the next day—if there are any!

Tools and Preparation

To make this Taco Braid, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that make the process easier and more efficient.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large skillet
• Pizza cutter or sharp knife
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Why These Tools Matter

• Large skillet: Allows for easy browning of the ground beef without splatter.
• Pizza cutter or sharp knife: Ensures clean and even slices when preparing the dough.
• Microwave-safe bowl: Perfect for softening refried beans quickly before spreading them on the dough.

Ingredients

This Easy Taco Braid uses pizza dough, seasoned taco beef, refried beans, cheese and salsa to create the most delicious family dinner!

For the Dough and Filling

• 13.8 ounce tube refrigerated pizza crust
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1.25 ounce packet taco seasoning
• 3/4 cup water
• 1 cup refried beans
• 1 cup salsa
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend shredded cheese)
• 2 cups finely diced tomatoes, divided use

For Topping

• 2 Tablespoons melted butter
• Chopped lettuce, for serving (optional)
• Sour cream and salsa, for serving (optional)

How to Make Taco Braid

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown and crumble the ground beef. Drain excess grease to keep your filling from being too greasy.

Step 2: Add Seasoning

Add the taco seasoning and water to the browned beef. Mix until well incorporated. Reduce heat to low and allow it to simmer for 5 – 7 minutes until thickened.

Step 3: Prepare the Dough

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Place the refrigerated pizza dough on a large piece of parchment paper and roll out so that it measures 10 X 15 inches.

Step 4: Slice the Dough

Using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, make slices approximately 1 -1/2 inches thick and 3 inches long along both long sides of the dough.

Step 5: Spread Refried Beans

Place refried beans into a microwave-safe bowl and microwave for about 45 seconds until they are soft enough to spread. Evenly spread them down the center of the dough.

Step 6: Add Ground Beef

Top the refried beans with your seasoned ground beef mixture down the center of the dough.

Step 7: Add Salsa & Cheese

Evenly spread salsa over the ground beef followed by shredded cheese and diced tomatoes.

Step 8: Create the Braid

Starting at one end of the braid, fold up the end and wrap over two slices on each side alternately. Repeat this process until you reach just before the last two slices.

Step 9: Secure Ends

Fold up what’s left of the end and wrap over those last two slices to secure everything inside.

Step 10: Brush with Butter

Gently brush melted butter over the top and sides of your braided creation.

Step 11: Bake

Carefully transfer your parchment onto a large baking sheet. Bake for about 20 – 25 minutes until golden brown.

Step 12: Serve

Allow cooling for about 5 minutes before serving. Top with chopped lettuce and tomato if desired. Serve alongside sour cream and salsa for dipping!

How to Serve Taco Braid

Taco Braid is a fun and delicious meal that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, serving it creatively enhances its appeal. Here are some great serving suggestions to elevate your Taco Braid experience.

Fresh Toppings

• Chopped Lettuce: A sprinkle of fresh chopped lettuce adds crunch and freshness.
• Diced Tomatoes: Enhance the flavor with additional diced tomatoes for a juicy burst.
• Sour Cream: Serve with a dollop of sour cream for a creamy, tangy contrast.
• Guacamole: A scoop of guacamole brings richness and an extra layer of flavor.

Salsas and Dips

• Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa made from tomatoes, onions, and cilantro brightens up each bite.
• Mild Salsa: Offer a mild salsa for those who prefer less heat.
• Spicy Salsa: For spice lovers, a zesty salsa adds an exciting kick.

Accompaniments

• Corn Chips: Serve with crunchy corn chips for an added texture and snack option.
• Mexican Rice: A side of flavorful Mexican rice complements the dish beautifully.

How to Perfect Taco Braid

To ensure your Taco Braid turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips. Simple adjustments can significantly enhance your cooking experience.

• Bold Seasoning: Use generous amounts of taco seasoning to ensure rich flavor throughout the braid.
• Proper Dough Thickness: Roll the pizza dough evenly to avoid uneven baking; aim for about 1/4 inch thick.
• Even Filling Distribution: Spread fillings uniformly down the center to maintain balance in every slice.
• Brush with Butter: Don’t skip brushing melted butter on top before baking; it creates a golden, crispy crust.
• Cooling Time: Let the braid cool for a few minutes before slicing; this helps maintain its structure.
• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or corn for added nutrition and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Taco Braid

Pairing side dishes with your Taco Braid can create a more complete meal. Here are some excellent options that complement its flavors perfectly.

1. Spanish Rice: This flavorful rice dish infused with spices pairs well with the bold flavors of Taco Braid.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide protein and richness that accentuates the braid’s taste.
3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob adds sweetness and crunch to your meal.
4. Black Bean Salad: A refreshing salad made with black beans, corn, and lime juice offers a zesty contrast.
5. Avocado Salad: Light yet satisfying, an avocado salad brings creaminess and freshness alongside the braid.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and balances out the richness of the braid nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Taco Braid, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish to perfection.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not using enough taco seasoning can lead to bland beef. Always measure out the seasoning and mix it thoroughly with the meat for full flavor.
• Overstuffing the braid: Adding too much filling may cause it to burst in the oven. Ensure you leave enough space on the edges for proper sealing.
• Not rolling out the dough evenly: Uneven dough can result in an inconsistent bake. Roll your pizza crust to a uniform thickness for even cooking.
• Ignoring baking time: Removing it too early may leave your Taco Braid undercooked. Bake until it’s golden brown for the best texture and taste.
• Neglecting to let it cool: Cutting into it right away can cause the filling to spill out. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Taco Braid

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Taco Braid

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes or until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat on a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Taco Braid?

A Taco Braid is a fun and delicious dish made with seasoned beef, refried beans, cheese, and salsa wrapped in pizza dough. It’s perfect for family dinners!

Can I use chicken instead of beef in my Taco Braid?

Yes! You can easily substitute ground chicken or turkey for the beef. Just season it similarly for great flavor.

How do I customize my Taco Braid?

Feel free to add ingredients like bell peppers, onions, or different types of cheese. The recipe is versatile and allows for many variations!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free pizza dough as an alternative to standard pizza crust.

How do I serve Taco Braid?

Taco Braid is great served warm with toppings like chopped lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, and extra salsa on the side.

Conclusion

This Easy Taco Braid is not only a flavorful main dish but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with various fillings and toppings to suit your family’s tastes. Give this recipe a try tonight and enjoy a delightful meal that brings everyone together!

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