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This Mexican Pizza has been my secret weapon for quick family dinners that everyone actually gets excited about. It perfectly captures that beloved Taco Bell classic but with fresher ingredients and customizable toppings that make it even better than the drive-thru version.
I first made these Mexican Pizzas during a busy weeknight when I was craving Taco Bell but didn't want to leave the house. My family was skeptical until that first bite when they all fell silent with that look of pure food happiness. Now it's on our rotation at least twice a month.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: creates the hearty base with perfect savory flavor choose 85/15 for best flavor without excess grease
- Taco seasoning: infuses authentic Mexican flavors throughout look for brands without MSG or make your own
- Flour tortillas: create the crispy layers that hold everything together thinner varieties work best for extra crispiness
- Refried beans: provide creamy texture and extra protein choose traditional or vegetarian varieties
- Enchilada sauce: adds tangy depth to both filling and topping select mild medium or hot based on preference
- Shredded cheese: binds everything together freshly shredded melts better than pre packaged
- Tomatoes: add fresh brightness and acidity Roma varieties have less moisture and work best
- Red onion: provides sharp contrast and crunch dice finely for best texture
- Black olives: contribute briny notes that balance the richness small sliced work perfectly
- Sour cream: cools everything down with creamy tanginess full fat provides the best flavor
- Green onions: offer mild onion flavor and beautiful color use both white and green parts
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Beef Filling:
- Cook ground beef over medium heat breaking it into small crumbles as it browns. This takes about 5-8 minutes until no pink remains. Drain excess grease thoroughly to prevent soggy tortillas. Add taco seasoning water and enchilada sauce stirring until evenly distributed. Let this mixture simmer 1-2 minutes to allow flavors to meld and sauce to slightly thicken.
- Assemble the Base Layers:
- Spread a generous layer of refried beans onto one tortilla creating an even surface all the way to the edges. This bean layer acts as glue for the meat. Top with a portion of seasoned beef distributing evenly. Sprinkle a light layer of cheese to help bind ingredients together. Place second tortilla on top pressing gently to seal layers together.
- Add the Pizza Elements:
- Spread 1 tablespoon enchilada sauce over the top tortilla in a thin even layer reaching all edges. This creates that signature Mexican Pizza flavor profile. Cover completely with shredded cheese ensuring even distribution for proper melting. The cheese creates that classic pizza appearance while adding rich flavor.
- Cook to Crispy Perfection:
- For air fryer method preheat to 400°F and cook each pizza about 5 minutes until cheese melts completely and tortillas become golden and crisp. For oven method bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes watching carefully to prevent burning edges. For stovetop gently fry in a lidded pan over medium heat for 4-5 minutes until bottom is crispy and cheese is fully melted.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Top each hot pizza with diced tomatoes red onion black olives dollops of sour cream and sprinkled green onions. Distribute toppings evenly for balanced flavor in every bite. Serve immediately while still hot and crispy for best texture and flavor experience.
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The enchilada sauce is truly the secret ingredient that sets this recipe apart from basic quesadillas. The first time I made these I almost skipped it thinking taco sauce would work just as well. That would have been a huge mistake. The rich slightly smoky flavor of enchilada sauce is what gives these pizzas that authentic Taco Bell taste that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Make Ahead Options
This recipe works beautifully for meal prep. You can prepare the meat mixture up to three days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The refried beans can also be portioned out ahead of time. When ready to serve simply assemble and cook the pizzas according to instructions. This makes weeknight dinners incredibly quick or allows for easy entertaining without spending the whole time in the kitchen.
Variations Worth Trying
For a vegetarian version replace the ground beef with a plant based alternative or simply increase the refried beans and add sautéed peppers and onions. Black beans or pinto beans make excellent additions for extra protein and texture. For those who enjoy spicy food add diced jalapeños to the meat mixture or serve with hot sauce on the side. You can also substitute corn tortillas for a more authentic flavor profile and gluten free option though they may be slightly less sturdy.
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Serving Suggestions
These Mexican Pizzas make a complete meal on their own but pair wonderfully with simple sides. A light green salad with cilantro lime dressing offers fresh contrast to the rich pizzas. Spanish rice provides a traditional accompaniment that soaks up any extra sauce. For entertaining serve with a bowl of guacamole and tortilla chips to start. If serving for a casual gathering cut each pizza into quarters for easy finger food that guests can enjoy while mingling.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
Yes, corn tortillas can be used for a slightly different texture and flavor. They tend to be crispier than flour tortillas.
- → What’s the best way to achieve crispy tortillas?
The air fryer method works best for crispiness, but the oven or pan-frying method also produces great results.
- → Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian version.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Place the cooked pizzas in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer for best results.
- → What garnishes pair well with this dish?
Diced tomatoes, red onions, olives, sour cream, and green onions are great options to enhance the flavor and presentation.
- → Can I customize the filling?
Yes, feel free to use chicken, beans, or even shredded pork as alternatives to ground beef.