Mexican Pizza (Taco Bell Copycat)
If you’ve ever craved the iconic Taco Bell Mexican Pizza, you’re in for a treat! This homemade version is not only delicious but also customizable to your taste. Imagine crispy corn tortillas layered with seasoned beef, refried beans, and topped with cheese and fresh veggies. It’s a fiesta on a plate that you can whip up in no time. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that brings the flavors of Taco Bell right to your kitchen.
Why I Love This Recipe
There’s something truly nostalgic about Mexican Pizza. It combines all the flavors of a taco with the satisfying crunch of a pizza. What I love most is how easy it is to make, and you can tailor it to your liking. Want it spicier? Add jalapeños. Prefer a vegetarian option? Skip the meat and double up on the veggies. The possibilities are endless, and it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends.
Gather These Ingredients
To make this Mexican Pizza (Taco Bell Copycat), you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade)
- 2/3 cup water (158g)
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 20 corn tortillas
- 2 cups refried beans (260g), or 16 oz can refried beans
- 1 1/4 cups red enchilada sauce (240g), or a 10oz can red enchilada sauce
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (226g)
- 1 Roma tomato, diced
- 1/2 cup sliced olives (71g)
- 3 green onions, chopped
Setup & Equipment
Before you get cooking, make sure you have the following tools on hand:
- Large skillet – for cooking the beef and seasoning.
- Oven-safe baking sheet – to assemble and bake your pizzas.
- Spatula – for flipping and serving.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accuracy.
- Cutting board and knife – for chopping your veggies.
Mexican Pizza (Taco Bell Copycat): Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Cook the Beef
In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the lean ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat if necessary. Stir in the taco seasoning and water, and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens and is well combined.
Step 2: Prepare the Tortillas
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the beef is simmering, warm the corn tortillas in a separate pan until they are pliable. This step is crucial as it helps prevent them from cracking when assembled.
Step 3: Assemble the Base
On a baking sheet, place one tortilla as the base. Spread a generous layer of refried beans over the tortilla, followed by a layer of the seasoned beef mixture. Drizzle some red enchilada sauce over the beef for an extra kick.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Toppings
Sprinkle a hearty amount of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the beef. Add another tortilla on top, and repeat the layering process with beans, beef, enchilada sauce, cheese, and finally, the top tortilla.
Step 5: Bake the Pizza
Once assembled, place the Mexican Pizza in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Top with diced Roma tomatoes, sliced olives, and chopped green onions. Slice into wedges and serve with your favorite toppings like sour cream or guacamole.
Health-Conscious Tweaks
If you’re looking to lighten up your Mexican Pizza (Taco Bell Copycat), consider these options:
- Substitute ground turkey for lean ground beef for a lower-fat option.
- Use low-fat cheese to reduce calories and fat content.
- Opt for whole grain tortillas for added fiber.
- Add more vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrients.
Missteps & Fixes
Making Mexican Pizza is straightforward, but here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them:
- If your tortillas break, make sure to warm them before assembly to make them more flexible.
- Too much filling can cause the pizza to fall apart. Stick to a moderate amount of each layer.
- To prevent sogginess, avoid overloading on the refried beans or enchilada sauce.
Prep Ahead & Store
You can prepare components of the Mexican Pizza ahead of time to save on cooking time:
- Cook the seasoned beef and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Assemble the pizza and cover it tightly with plastic wrap to bake later. Just ensure you keep the toppings aside until baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Quick Questions
Can I make this pizza vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the ground beef and double the amount of refried beans or add more vegetables like bell peppers and corn.
What can I use instead of corn tortillas?
You can substitute with flour tortillas or even a pre-made pizza crust if you prefer a different texture.
Can I freeze Mexican Pizza?
Yes! You can freeze the assembled, unbaked pizza. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it can be stored for up to 3 months. Bake it straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How can I spice it up?
Add chopped jalapeños, a sprinkle of cayenne pepper, or use a spicy taco seasoning mix to give your Mexican Pizza an extra kick!
If you enjoyed this Mexican Pizza (Taco Bell Copycat), you might also like:
Ready to Cook?
This Mexican Pizza (Taco Bell Copycat) is a delightful dish that combines the best of both worlds—pizza and tacos! It’s perfect for sharing with family and friends or enjoying as a cozy night in. So gather your ingredients, set up your kitchen, and get ready to indulge in this delicious homemade version that will surely become a new favorite. Happy cooking!
Mexican Pizza (Taco Bell Copycat)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the lean ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat if necessary. Stir in the taco seasoning and water, and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens and is well combined.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the beef is simmering, warm the corn tortillas in a separate pan until they are pliable. This step is crucial as it helps prevent them from cracking when assembled.
- On a baking sheet, place one tortilla as the base. Spread a generous layer of refried beans over the tortilla, followed by a layer of the seasoned beef mixture. Drizzle some red enchilada sauce over the beef for an extra kick.
- Sprinkle a hearty amount of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the beef. Add another tortilla on top, and repeat the layering process with beans, beef, enchilada sauce, cheese, and finally, the top tortilla.
- Once assembled, place the Mexican Pizza in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Top with diced Roma tomatoes, sliced olives, and chopped green onions. Slice into wedges and serve with your favorite toppings like sour cream or guacamole.
Notes
- For a lower-fat option, substitute ground turkey for lean ground beef.
- Use low-fat cheese to reduce calories and fat content.
- Assemble ahead of time and bake later for convenience.
