This Taco Braid combines seasoned ground beef, shredded cheese, and tomatoes, all wrapped in a braided pizza dough. It's a delicious and visually impressive dish that's perfect for family dinners or parties.

#### Ingredients:

- 1 lb (470 grams) lean ground beef

- 1 refrigerated pizza dough

- 2 cups lettuce, chopped

- 1 cup shredded Fiesta blend cheese

- 1/2 cup onion, chopped

- 1/2 cup water

- 3 tbsp homemade taco seasoning

- 2 tbsp olive oil

- 1 tomato, cubed (plus extra for garnish)

- 2 tbsp melted butter

- Sour cream and taco sauce for serving (optional)

#### Directions:

1. **Preheat Oven:**

   - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. **Cook the Beef:**

   - In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.

   - Add the lean ground beef to the pan and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.

3. **Season the Beef:**

   - Add the water and homemade taco seasoning to the beef. Stir until well combined, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 7 minutes.

4. **Prepare the Dough:**

   - Place the parchment paper on your work surface. Roll out the pizza dough on the parchment paper into a 10x15 inch rectangle.

   - Using a pizza cutter, make 1.5-inch cuts along the long sides of the dough, leaving about 3 inches of uncut dough in the center.

5. **Assemble the Braid:**

   - Place the seasoned ground beef in the center of the dough. Sprinkle 3/4 cup of the shredded cheese over the meat, then add the cubed tomatoes.

   - Starting at one end, fold the first two strips over the filling, then alternate folding strips from each side to create a braid. Tuck the ends under to seal.

6. **Bake:**

   - Brush the top and sides of the braid with the melted butter. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of cheese over the top.

   - Transfer the parchment paper with the braid onto the baking sheet. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the braid is golden brown.

7. **Garnish and Serve:**

   - Let the braid cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Top with chopped lettuce and additional cubed tomatoes.

   - Serve with sour cream and taco sauce, if desired.

Enjoy this delicious and fun Taco Braid that's sure to be a hit with everyone!