The first time I tasted a Mexican Pizza from Taco Bell, I was instantly captivated by its crunchy, cheesy goodness. But who says this iconic dish has to come from a drive-thru? As I dug through my pantry one busy weeknight, the craving struck for that delightful combination of seasoned beef, creamy refried beans, and that satisfying cheesy layer—so I decided to recreate it right at home.
This Taco Bell copycat recipe is not just a nod to a beloved classic; it’s a customizable, budget-friendly meal that can be whipped up in under 30 minutes! Imagine serving a sizzling pizza with crisp tortillas and your choice of fresh toppings to family and friends. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply make a cozy weeknight dinner, this homemade take on Mexican pizza will undoubtedly become a crowd-pleaser in your kitchen. Join me in making a dish that’s as fun to prepare as it is to eat!
Why will you love Mexican Pizza?
Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
Endless Customization: Tailor each pizza to suit your tastebuds—swap out proteins, add extra veggies, or mix up the cheese for a unique twist.
Budget-Friendly: Enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the bank; this copycat version saves money compared to fast food.
Crowd-Pleasing: Impress family and friends with a savory dish that brings all the flavors of your favorite fast food right to your home.
Satisfying Cravings: Enjoy that crispy, cheesy goodness without waiting in line. Make it a fun weeknight tradition!
Looking for more quick meal ideas? Check out my guide on 30-Minute Dinners that the whole family will love!
Mexican Pizza Ingredients
For the Pizza Base
• Flour Tortillas (8) – These serve as the crunchy base; you can use corn tortillas for a different flavor.
For the Filling
• Ground Beef (1 lb) – Provides the hearty main filling; swap with ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based alternative for a lighter dish.
• Taco Seasoning (2 tbsp) – Add flavor to the beef; make your own blend or use store-bought based on your spice preference.
• Water (¼ cup) – Hydrates the taco seasoning and ground beef, keeping it flavorful.
• Refried Beans (8 oz) – Offers a creamy layer; substitute with black or pinto beans for variety.
For the Topping
• Enchilada Sauce (8 tbsp total) – Keeps everything moist and adds depth of flavor; choose mild or hot based on your family’s taste.
• Shredded Cheese (1 cup total) – Melts beautifully to bind the pizza; try a Mexican cheese blend or use cheddar or mozzarella instead.
For Garnishes (Optional)
• Tomato – Adds freshness and color; diced tomatoes work well.
• Red Onion – Provides a crunchy and zesty bite; use it sparingly unless you love the flavor!
• Black Olives – Bring a briny touch; slice them up for even distribution.
• Sour Cream – A cool contrast to the warm pizza; dollop it right before serving.
• Green Onions – For a pop of color and mild onion flavor; chop them finely to sprinkle on top.
With these ingredients at hand, you’re all set to whip up a delicious Mexican Pizza in no time! Enjoy customizing it as you please, and savor the homemade goodness.
How to Make Mexican Pizza
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Preheat Oven: First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure a perfectly crispy finish. This temperature is crucial for the best results.
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Crisp Tortillas: Lightly brush the flour tortillas with oil, arrange them on a baking sheet, and bake for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crunchy.
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Cook Beef: In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat for about 6-8 minutes, stirring until fully cooked. Drain the fat, add taco seasoning and water, then let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the flavors meld.
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Warm Beans: Heat the refried beans in a small saucepan over low heat until they become spreadable. Add a bit of water if needed to achieve the right consistency.
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Assemble Layer One: Take 4 of the crispy tortillas and evenly spread the warm refried beans on top. Then, layer the seasoned ground beef, 4 tablespoons of enchilada sauce, and half of the shredded cheese.
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Add Layer Two: Place the remaining tortillas on top of the first layer, and drizzle with the rest of the enchilada sauce. Sprinkle the remaining cheese generously on top.
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Final Bake: Bake the assembled Mexican pizzas in the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling with a delicious golden color.
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Add Garnishes: Allow the pizzas to cool for a couple of minutes. Top with your choice of fresh garnishes, then slice them into wedges for serving.
Optional: Top with sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Mexican Pizza
• Crispy Tortillas: For an extra crispy texture, consider frying the tortillas instead of baking them to enhance crunch.
• Spice It Up: If you love heat, don’t hesitate to add diced jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce during the assembly for a flavorful kick.
• Avoid Sogginess: To prevent a soggy Mexican Pizza, ensure the tortillas are fully crisp and be mindful not to overload with toppings.
• Fresh Cheese: Grate cheese yourself rather than using pre-shredded varieties; freshly shredded cheese melts beautifully and provides better flavor.
• Prep Ahead: You can prepare the beef and crisp the tortillas in advance; assemble just before baking to save time while maintaining texture.
What to Serve with Mexican Pizza?
Elevate your homemade Mexican Pizza with these delightful sides and pairings that bring a burst of flavor to your meal.
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Chips and Salsa: Perfectly crunchy tortilla chips with zesty salsa add a fresh and lively touch to your dining experience. Their contrasting textures will have everyone reaching for more!
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Guacamole: Creamy and rich guacamole makes a velvety accompaniment, balancing the spicy and savory notes of the pizza. The fresh avocado flavor is simply irresistible.
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Mexican Street Corn: This grilled corn, slathered in mayo and topped with cheese and lime, offers a sweet and smoky counterpart to your pizza’s bold flavors, bringing a festival of tastes in every bite.
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Black Bean Salad: A refreshing mix of black beans, corn, cilantro, and lime serves as a vibrant, nutritious side that complements the richness of the pizza without overwhelming it.
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Margaritas: Refreshing and tangy, a classic margarita pairs wonderfully with your Mexican Pizza, cutting through the savory richness and adding a festive touch to your meal.
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Lettuce Wraps: Crisp lettuce wraps filled with fresh veggies and lime dressing add a crunchy, low-carb alternative to traditional sides, offering a burst of freshness with each bite.
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Taco Salad: A bed of lettuce, topped with diced tomatoes, cheese, and your choice of protein will introduce another layer of flavor while keeping the meal light and satisfying.
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Fruit Salad: Sweet and juicy, a fruit salad with pineapple, mango, and berries provides a refreshing contrast to the savory pizza. It’s an excellent way to round out your meal with a touch of sweetness.
Indulge in these pairings to create a delicious and complete meal that everyone will rave about!
How to Store and Freeze Mexican Pizza
Fridge: Store any leftover Mexican Pizza in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To maintain its freshness, avoid stacking slices directly on top of each other.
Freezer: Freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, ensuring the cheese is melted and the crust is crisp again.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare the beef and crisp the tortillas ahead of time. Assemble and bake the Mexican Pizza just before serving to keep it fresh and delicious.
Make Ahead Options
These Mexican Pizza make-it-ahead options are perfect for busy weeknights, saving you valuable time! You can prepare the ground beef mixture and refried beans up to 3 days in advance. Simply cook the beef with taco seasoning, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The same goes for the beans; warm them up before assembly. To maintain crispy tortillas, consider baking them just before you’re ready to serve. Assemble the pizzas with the prepped components, top with cheese, and bake them for 5-7 minutes until melted and bubbly. This way, you’ll enjoy a delightful homemade Mexican Pizza with minimal effort on busy nights!
Mexican Pizza Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to unleash your creativity and make this dish your own with these delightful twists!
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Vegetarian Option: Swap ground beef for lentils or an extra serving of refried beans for a savory, meatless meal that’s just as satisfying.
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Gluten-Free: Use corn tortillas instead of flour to create a crispy, gluten-free version while keeping all the delicious flavors intact.
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Heat It Up: Add diced jalapeños to the beef or as a topping for an extra kick of spice that will awaken your taste buds.
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Cheese Blends: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a zesty touch or feta for a unique flavor contrast that will surprise and delight.
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Bean Variety: Substitute refried beans with black beans or pinto beans for a different texture and taste, while still offering creamy goodness.
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Burst of Freshness: Incorporate diced bell peppers or corn into the filling for added crunch and sweetness that complements the savory elements beautifully.
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Sauce Choices: Use salsa verde or pico de gallo instead of enchilada sauce for a fresh, tangy twist that brightens every bite.
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Hearty Additions: Top with avocado or guacamole for creaminess and a rich, buttery flavor that elevates every slice.
Each of these variations invites you to personalize your Mexican Pizza experience, transforming it into a dish that perfectly matches your palate. Enjoy the adventure of creating something truly special!
Mexican Pizza Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best tortillas for my Mexican Pizza?
When choosing tortillas, look for flour tortillas that are burrito-sized to achieve a nice crunchy base. If you’re looking for a different flavor, corn tortillas are a fantastic alternative. Just ensure they are pliable and fresh without tears.
What’s the best way to store leftover Mexican Pizza?
Store any leftover Mexican Pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain optimal texture, avoid stacking the slices directly on top of one another. Simply reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes for the best results.
Can I freeze Mexican Pizza, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This will keep them fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and then reheat in the oven until heated through.
What can I do if my Mexican Pizza becomes soggy?
To prevent a soggy Mexican Pizza, ensure that your tortillas are fully crisp before assembling. Opt for minimal toppings, and avoid excessive liquid-heavy ingredients. If you find yourself in a soggy situation, placing the pizza back in the oven for a few minutes can help re-crisp the tortilla.
Is this Mexican Pizza suitable for dietary restrictions, such as gluten-free or vegetarian?
Yes! Making this Mexican Pizza gluten-free is easy; simply use corn tortillas instead of flour. For a vegetarian option, replace the ground beef with lentils or an extra serving of beans. You can also customize your toppings to ensure everyone’s dietary needs are met!
How long will it take to prepare the ingredients for my Mexican Pizza?
If you’re well-prepared, you can expect to prepare the ingredients within 10-15 minutes. Just have your veggies chopped, beans warmed, and beef cooked ready to assemble! The more the merrier when it comes to making it fast and simple!
Homemade Mexican Pizza That Beats Taco Bell in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for a crispy finish.
- Brush the flour tortillas with oil, arrange on a baking sheet, and bake for 8-10 minutes until golden brown.
- Brown the ground beef over medium heat for 6-8 minutes, then drain fat, add taco seasoning and water, and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Heat the refried beans in a saucepan over low heat until spreadable, adding water if necessary.
- Spread warm refried beans on 4 crispy tortillas, layer with seasoned beef, 4 tablespoons of enchilada sauce, and half of the cheese.
- Place remaining tortillas on top, drizzle with remaining enchilada sauce, and sprinkle remaining cheese.
- Bake for an additional 5-7 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Let cool for a couple of minutes, top with garnishes, and slice into wedges to serve.