Taco Bell Mexican Pizza

If you’re looking for a delicious homemade twist on a classic favorite, this Taco Bell Mexican Pizza is just what you need! This recipe brings all the flavors of the beloved fast-food dish right into your kitchen, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. The combination of seasoned ground beef, crispy tortillas, and gooey cheese will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s an effortless way to bring a bit of fun to dinner!

What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. You can whip it up in just about 50 minutes with ingredients you likely have on hand. Whether you’re treating your family to a special meal or hosting friends for game night, this Taco Bell Mexican Pizza is sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in under an hour, making it ideal for those hectic weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this tasty take on pizza, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
• Customizable: With so many topping options, everyone can create their perfect slice!
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the components in advance and assemble them when you’re ready to bake.
• Deliciously Satisfying: The combo of crispy tortillas and savory beef is incredibly fulfilling—perfect for any appetite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make our Taco Bell Mexican Pizza shine! These items are easy to find at your local grocery store and come together beautifully for a tasty meal.

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• ¾ cup water
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 8 flour tortillas (taco size)
• 15 ounce can refried beans
• 10 ounce can enchilada sauce
• 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
• diced tomatoes (for topping)
• sliced green onion (for topping)
• sliced olives (for topping)
• sour cream (for topping)

Variations

One of the best parts about this Taco Bell Mexican Pizza is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative and make it your own with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Go vegetarian: Skip the meat and load up on extra veggies like bell peppers, corn, or zucchini.
• Add some heat: Incorporate jalapeños or spicy salsa for those who like a little kick in their pizza.
• Switch up the cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese such as pepper jack or cheddar for unique flavor profiles.

How to Make Taco Bell Mexican Pizza

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first! Preheat your oven to 400°F. This step is crucial because we want that cheese melted perfectly while our pizzas bake.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown and crumble the ground beef until it’s fully cooked. Drain any excess grease before returning the beef to the skillet. Add in your taco seasoning along with the water, stirring well. Bring this mixture to a boil before reducing the heat. Let it simmer until thickened; this step really enhances those rich flavors!

Step 3: Fry the Tortillas

In another skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Carefully add one tortilla at a time, cooking each for about 3-4 minutes until they are crisp and golden brown. Flip them frequently so they cook evenly. This crispy base is what makes our pizza special!

Step 4: Prepare the Refried Beans

While your tortillas are frying, warm up the refried beans in a microwave-safe bowl until they’re nice and spreadable. This will make layering them onto our tortillas super easy!

Step 5: Assemble Your Pizzas

Now comes the fun part! On each fried tortilla, spread a generous layer of refried beans followed by your seasoned ground beef. Place another tortilla on top of that and spread about two tablespoons of enchilada sauce over it. Top with shredded Mexican cheese blend—this will get all melty and delicious in the oven!

Step 6: Bake Them Up

Carefully place your assembled pizzas onto a large nonstick baking sheet. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes or until that cheese is gloriously melted.

Step 7: Add Toppings & Serve

Finally, serve your pizzas hot out of the oven topped with diced tomatoes, sliced green onions, sliced olives, and a dollop of sour cream if desired. Enjoy every bite of your homemade Taco Bell Mexican Pizza!

Pro Tips for Making Taco Bell Mexican Pizza

Making your own Taco Bell Mexican Pizza at home is a delightful experience, and these tips will help you make it even better!

• Use fresh tortillas: Fresh tortillas add an incredible flavor and texture to your pizza. Look for them in the refrigerated section of your grocery store or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous!

• Customize the filling: Feel free to mix up the filling by adding black beans, corn, or even diced bell peppers. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds more nutrition to your meal.

• Monitor frying time: When frying the tortillas, keep an eye on them to ensure they’re crisp but not burnt. A perfect crunch is key to replicating that classic restaurant style!

• Layer wisely: Make sure to spread the refried beans evenly and use just the right amount of enchilada sauce. This helps prevent soggy tortillas and ensures each bite is packed with flavor.

• Experiment with toppings: Don’t hesitate to get creative with toppings! Consider adding avocado slices or jalapeños for a spicy kick that will elevate your homemade pizza.

How to Serve Taco Bell Mexican Pizza

When serving your Taco Bell Mexican Pizza, presentation can really enhance the dining experience. Here are some fun ideas to bring your meal together beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: Chopped cilantro adds a wonderful freshness that complements the rich flavors of the pizza.
• Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime juice right before eating brightens up all those delicious flavors and adds a zesty twist.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayonnaise, cheese, chili powder, and lime juice makes for a delicious and colorful side dish.

• Chili Lime Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with lime juice and chili powder offers a refreshing balance alongside your pizza.

• Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: A creamy guacamole paired with crunchy tortilla chips is always a hit! It’s perfect for dipping while waiting for those pizzas to come out of the oven.

• Black Bean Salad: A vibrant mix of black beans, corn, tomatoes, and onions tossed in a light vinaigrette provides a nutritious contrast that pairs nicely with the richness of the pizzas.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll be well on your way to impressing friends and family with your homemade Taco Bell Mexican Pizza! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Taco Bell Mexican Pizza is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious homemade pizzas anytime! With a few simple storage tips, you can savor these tasty treats throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover Mexican pizzas in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days.
• To prevent sogginess, place parchment paper between layers if stacking.

Freezing

• Assemble the pizzas without baking them and wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place the wrapped pizzas in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For refrigerated pizza, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• For frozen pizza, bake directly from the freezer at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and hot.

FAQs

Have questions? We’ve got answers to help you make the most of your Taco Bell Mexican Pizza experience!

Can I use turkey instead of ground beef for the Taco Bell Mexican Pizza?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a healthier alternative and works just as well with the taco seasoning.

What can I substitute for refried beans in this Taco Bell Mexican Pizza recipe?

You can use black beans or pinto beans mashed with some spices as a delicious alternative to refried beans.

How do I make my own enchilada sauce?

Making enchilada sauce at home is easy! Combine tomato sauce with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and onion powder to taste.

Is there a vegetarian version of Taco Bell Mexican Pizza?

Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with sautéed vegetables or additional beans for a satisfying vegetarian option.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this homemade Taco Bell Mexican Pizza! It’s not just a recipe; it’s an opportunity to share delicious moments with family and friends. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings. Happy cooking!