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Air Fryer Taco Pizza - A Fast, Flavor-Packed Weeknight Win

Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • Pizza crust: Store-bought thin crust, naan, or flatbread (fits your air fryer basket)
  • Ground meat: Beef, turkey, or chicken (about 1/2 pound)
  • Taco seasoning: 1 packet or 2–3 tablespoons homemade
  • Refried beans: 1 can (low-sodium if preferred)
  • Salsa or taco sauce: Mild, medium, or hot
  • Shredded cheese: Mexican blend, cheddar, or Monterey Jack (1–1 1/2 cups)
  • Onion: Red or white, finely diced
  • Tomato: Diced
  • Romaine or iceberg lettuce: Shredded
  • Black olives: Sliced (optional)
  • Jalapeño: Fresh or pickled, sliced (optional)
  • Avocado or guacamole: For topping (optional)
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt: For drizzling
  • Cilantro: Chopped (optional)
  • Lime: For squeezing over the top
  • Olive oil spray: Lightly coating the crust (optional)

Instructions

  • Preheat the air fryer: Set to 375°F (190°C) for 3–4 minutes. A hot basket helps crisp the crust.
  • Cook the meat: Brown the ground beef or turkey in a skillet over medium heat. Drain any excess fat, then stir in taco seasoning and a splash of water. Simmer 1–2 minutes until saucy and well-coated. Let it cool a bit so it doesn’t make the crust soggy.
  • Warm the beans: Heat refried beans in a small saucepan or microwave until spreadable. This keeps the crust from tearing and makes spreading easier.
  • Assemble the base: Lightly spray the crust with olive oil. Spread a thin layer of refried beans over the surface, leaving a small border. Spoon on some salsa or taco sauce. Don’t overdo the sauces—too much can make the middle soggy.
  • Add toppings that need melting: Sprinkle on seasoned meat, then add shredded cheese. If you like sauteed onions or peppers, add them now. Save fresh, watery toppings for after air frying.
  • Air fry the pizza: Carefully transfer the pizza to the basket (you can build it on a piece of parchment that’s trimmed to fit). Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 6–8 minutes, checking at minute 5. The cheese should be melted and bubbly, and the edges golden.
  • Finish with fresh toppings: After cooking, add shredded lettuce, diced tomato, onion, olives, jalapeños, and cilantro. Drizzle with sour cream or Greek yogurt and add avocado or guacamole. Squeeze a little lime over the top for brightness.
  • Slice and serve: Use a sharp pizza cutter and serve right away while the crust is crisp.