Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza Recipe
If you have ever found yourself craving that irresistible, crispy, and cheesy delight from a fast-food favorite, you are in for a treat. This version of Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza Recipe brings all the flavors and textures you love right into your kitchen with fresh, simple ingredients. Picture perfectly fried tortillas layered with creamy refried beans, savory spiced beef, tangy enchilada sauce, and a melty blanket of cheese, topped with colorful bursts of tomatoes and fresh green onions. It is pure magic on a plate that feels indulgent while being surprisingly easy to make at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the secret to nailing Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza Recipe. Each component adds a unique layer of flavor and texture, from the crispy tortillas to the luscious toppings that bring it all together.
- 1 pound ground beef: The base of meaty goodness that carries bold taco seasoning flavors.
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix: Adds that signature spiced kick without any fuss.
- ½ cup water: Helps simmer the beef and seasoning into a richly flavored filling.
- 8 small flour tortillas: Fried until golden and crispy to provide the perfect crunchy crust.
- 1 can (15 ounces) refried beans: Creamy and hearty, they make the base spread deliciously smooth.
- 1 cup red enchilada sauce or mild taco sauce: Infuses moisture and tangy depth on top.
- 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese: Melts beautifully to tie all the flavors together with gooey comfort.
- ½ cup diced tomatoes: Adds freshness and vibrant color for a balanced bite.
- ¼ cup sliced black olives (optional): A salty, briny touch that lifts the flavor profile.
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions: Bright, crunchy, and slightly sharp, perfect for garnish.
- Vegetable oil for frying: Ensures the tortillas crisp up just right without absorbing too much oil.
How to Make Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Seasoned Beef
Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon to ensure even cooking. Once the beef is fully browned and no pink remains, drain off any excess fat to avoid greasiness. Then stir in the taco seasoning packet along with ½ cup of water, and let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld into a thick, savory filling perfect for layering.
Step 2: Fry the Tortillas to Crispy Perfection
While the beef simmers, heat a thin layer of vegetable oil in a separate skillet over medium-high heat. Fry each small flour tortilla for about one minute per side until they achieve a gorgeous golden crispness. Drain the fried tortillas on paper towels to soak up any extra oil and set aside. This frying step is essential because that crunch is what really makes Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza Recipe stand out.
Step 3: Assemble Your Mexican Pizzas
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s ready to melt all those lovely toppings perfectly. Begin by spreading a generous layer of refried beans on four of the fried tortillas—this creamy layer helps everything stick together while imparting rich flavor. Next, spoon on a hearty amount of the seasoned beef. Place the remaining four tortillas on top, creating a sandwich-like “pizza.”
Step 4: Top and Bake
Now spread about 2 tablespoons of red enchilada or mild taco sauce on the top tortilla of each pizza. Sprinkle liberally with shredded Mexican blend cheese, then scatter diced tomatoes, black olives (if using), and chopped green onions generously for freshness and a pop of color. Transfer the assembled pizzas to a baking sheet and bake in the oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese has melted into bubbly, golden perfection. Allow them to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
How to Serve Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation, sprinkle fresh cilantro leaves or a dollop of sour cream over each slice right before serving. The herbaceous notes of cilantro and the cool creaminess create a beautiful counterbalance to the warm, savory layers beneath.
Side Dishes
Pair your Mexican pizza with vibrant sides like a crisp green salad dressed in lime vinaigrette or a bowl of zesty Mexican street corn. These fresh, bright options complement the hearty richness of the pizza without overpowering it.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, cut the Mexican pizza into bite-sized squares for a festive party platter or serve alongside guacamole and pico de gallo for a fully loaded Tex-Mex experience. Wrapping slices in parchment paper and securing with a colorful string also makes for a charming, portable snack option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which is always an excellent problem to have), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The layers tend to soften a bit but the flavors remain delightfully rich.
Freezing
You can freeze the assembled but unbaked Mexican pizzas by wrapping each one tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Frozen, they keep well for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Reheating
Reheat leftover slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes for the best texture. Microwaving is an option but may result in a softer crust, so a quick crisp under the broiler for a minute or two can revive the crunch.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! For a meatless option, simply omit the ground beef and double the amount of refried beans or use your favorite plant-based meat substitute. The flavors remain tasty and satisfying.
What type of cheese is best for Mexican pizza?
A Mexican blend cheese or a combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack works beautifully because they melt well and have a perfect balance of sharpness and creaminess.
Can I skip frying the tortillas?
Yes, you can use store-bought tostada shells to save time. However, frying fresh tortillas gives you that exceptional crunch that truly mimics the original Taco Bell experience.
Is there a way to make it less spicy?
You can choose a mild enchilada or taco sauce instead of spicy versions and avoid adding any extra hot peppers, adjusting the heat level to your taste.
What is the best way to serve Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza Recipe to guests?
Cut into quarters and serve with garnishes like sour cream, salsa, and guacamole on the side, allowing everyone to customize their slices to their liking. It’s perfect for casual gatherings or family dinners.
Final Thoughts
Making your own Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza Recipe at home is such a rewarding experience that combines comfort food vibes with fresh, vibrant flavors. It’s crispy, cheesy, and packed with rich seasoning—the perfect meal to share with friends or enjoy as a satisfying solo treat. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try and discover the joy of crafting your favorite fast-food classic right in your own kitchen.
Print
Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 Mexican pizzas 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Taco Bell Mexican Pizza recipe recreates the iconic fast-food favorite at home with crispy fried tortillas layered with refried beans, seasoned ground beef, enchilada sauce, and melted Mexican cheese, topped with fresh tomatoes, olives, and green onions. Perfect for a comforting Tex-Mex main course that combines stovetop cooking and oven baking for the ideal crispy, cheesy finish.
Ingredients
Meat and Seasoning
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- ½ cup water
Tortillas and Beans
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 1 can (15 ounces) refried beans
Sauces and Toppings
- 1 cup red enchilada sauce or mild taco sauce
- 1 cup shredded Mexican blend cheese
- ½ cup diced tomatoes
- ¼ cup sliced black olives (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
Other
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef while breaking it up with a spoon. Once cooked, drain excess fat. Add taco seasoning and water, then simmer for 5 minutes until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat.
- Fry the Tortillas: Heat a thin layer of vegetable oil in a separate skillet over medium-high heat. Fry each tortilla for about 1 minute per side, or until they turn golden and crispy. Drain the fried tortillas on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lay out four fried tortillas and spread a layer of refried beans evenly over each.
- Assemble the Mexican Pizzas: Top the bean-spread tortillas with the seasoned ground beef, then cover each with another fried tortilla to create a ‘pizza’ base.
- Add Sauce and Toppings: Spread about 2 tablespoons of enchilada or taco sauce on the top tortilla of each pizza. Sprinkle shredded Mexican cheese, diced tomatoes, black olives (if using), and green onions over the sauce.
- Bake: Place the assembled pizzas on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Serve: Allow the pizzas to cool slightly before slicing into wedges and serving warm.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef and use extra refried beans or a plant-based meat substitute.
- You can save time by using store-bought tostada shells instead of frying your own tortillas.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
