Mexican Pizza (Taco Bell Copycat)

Mexican Pizza (Taco Bell Copycat)

If you’re craving a delicious Mexican Pizza, you’re in the right place! This Taco Bell copycat recipe brings the flavors of your favorite fast-food joint straight to your kitchen. With layers of seasoned ground beef, refried beans, and melty cheese all nestled between crispy tortillas, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings.

Why Make This Recipe

Why settle for a drive-thru meal when you can whip up this Mexican Pizza at home? Not only is it delicious, but it’s also customizable, allowing you to tweak it according to your personal preferences. You can control the ingredients, ensuring a fresher, tastier result. Plus, making a Taco Bell copycat recipe means you can enjoy your favorite flavors without breaking the bank or leaving the comfort of your home.

How to Make Mexican Pizza

Making the perfect Mexican Pizza is easier than you might think. With just a bit of preparation and some creative layering, you can serve up a tasty meal that everyone will love. Let’s dive into the ingredients and directions to get started!

Ingredients

• 8 flour tortillas (or corn tortillas)
• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 tbsp taco seasoning
• 1/4 cup water
• 4 tbsp enchilada sauce
• 8 ounces refried beans (1/2 can)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Mexican cheese blend)
• 4 tbsp enchilada sauce (for topping)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Mexican cheese blend for topping)
• 1 tomato (roma or beefsteak, seeds removed and diced)
• 1 small red onion (diced)
• 1/4 cup black olives
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 green onions (finely diced)

Directions

1. In a large frying pan or skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Use a spatula or spoon to break it up into small pieces as it cooks. Sauté for about 5-8 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through. Draining grease from the pan is recommended.

2. Add the taco seasoning, water, and 4 tablespoons of enchilada sauce to the pan. Stir until evenly combined and let simmer for 1-2 minutes to meld the flavors.

3. To assemble the pizzas, spread a layer of refried beans on one tortilla. Top it with a generous portion of the seasoned ground beef, followed by a layer of cheese. Place another tortilla on top to complete the first pizza.

4. Spread 1 tablespoon of enchilada sauce on top of the second tortilla and add shredded cheese to evenly cover the top.

5. Repeat the assembly process for the remaining tortillas until all pizzas are built.

Air Fryer Cooking Method

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Working in batches (if your air fryer fits one pizza at a time), carefully place a pizza in the air fryer. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are crispy. Repeat with the remaining pizzas.

Oven Baking Method

Preheat your oven to 350°F. For easier cleanup, line a sheet pan with tin foil or parchment paper. Arrange the pizzas on the sheet pan, leaving space between them. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are crisp.

Pan Frying Method

In a large frying pan with a lid, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add one pizza at a time, covering the pan with a lid. Cook for 4-5 minutes, or until the cheese melts and the bottom tortilla is crispy.

6. Transfer the cooked pizzas to a serving plate and top with optional garnishes like diced tomatoes, red onion, sliced olives, sour cream, and green onions. Serve and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Success Mexican Pizza

1. Tortilla Choice: Flour tortillas work best for a chewy texture, but corn tortillas can be used for a gluten-free option. Just ensure they are sturdy enough to hold the toppings.

2. Ground Beef Alternatives: You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives like lentils or tofu if you prefer a healthier or vegetarian option.

3. Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheese blends like pepper jack for a spicy kick, or try queso fresco for a milder flavor.

4. Layering Techniques: For extra flavor, consider adding a thin layer of enchilada sauce between the tortillas for additional moisture and a boost of taste.

5. Crispier Pizza: For a crunchier pizza base, make sure to cook the tortillas a little before assembling or increasing the cooking time slightly in the air fryer.

Flavor Variations Mexican Pizza

1. Spicy Kick: Add some sliced jalapeños or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes on top before cooking for an extra kick.

2. Veggie Delight: Incorporate sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms into the beef mixture for added veggies and flavor.

3. BBQ Twist: Swap the enchilada sauce for barbecue sauce and use chicken instead of beef for a unique twist on this traditional dish.

4. Breakfast Style: Use scrambled eggs instead of ground beef, and top with salsa for a breakfast version of Mexican pizza.

5. Cheesy Goodness: Load up on different types of cheese by adding a layer of cream cheese spread before the refried beans for a creamy addition.

Serving Suggestions Mexican Pizza

Mexican Pizza is perfect on its own, but you can elevate your meal with a few simple sides. Consider serving it alongside a fresh garden salad with lime vinaigrette, some crispy tortilla chips, or guacamole for dipping. A side of Mexican street corn can also complement the flavors beautifully.

Storage and Freezing Instructions Mexican Pizza

If you’re fortunate enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use an oven or air fryer to maintain that crispy texture.

For longer-term storage, you can freeze the assembled (uncooked) pizzas. Wrap each pizza tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply cook from frozen, allowing a few extra minutes for cooking time.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 890mg

FAQ About Mexican Pizza

Can I make a vegetarian version of Mexican Pizza?

Absolutely! You can easily swap out the ground beef for black beans, lentils, or even a veggie crumble. Just load up on your favorite vegetables and you’re set for a delicious vegetarian meal.

What can I use instead of enchilada sauce?

If you don’t have enchilada sauce, you can use taco sauce or even salsa for a fresh and zesty layer of flavor. In a pinch, seasoned tomato sauce can also work as a substitute.

How do I keep the tortillas from getting soggy?

To prevent sogginess, make sure your beef mixture and refried beans are not overly wet when assembling. Additionally, cooking the tortillas slightly before assembly can add an extra layer of crunch that helps them hold up better.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead and assemble the pizzas when you’re ready to eat. If you’re making them in advance, keeping individual components separate until cooking time will help retain crispiness.

How can I add more flavor to my ground beef?

Enhance the flavor of your ground beef by also adding minced garlic, onion powder, or even a splash of lime juice to the pan while cooking. This will elevate the taste profile significantly.

Final Thoughts

Creating a Taco Bell-inspired Mexican Pizza at home is a delightful way to bring the flavors of fast food into your kitchen while enjoying the benefits of homemade meals. This dish is perfect for meal prep, family gatherings, or just a fun night of cooking. With endless variations and customizable options, you’re sure to find the perfect combination to please your palate. Enjoy this fun and tasty recipe, and let your creativity flow!

Print