Homemade Taco Bell Mexican Pizza: The Ultimate Copycat Recipe for a Family Favorite
Do you ever get a craving for a classic fast-food favorite that takes you straight back to your childhood? For many, the Taco Bell Mexican Pizza holds a special place in their hearts. That perfect blend of crispy tortillas, seasoned beef, refried beans, savory sauce, and melted cheese was an undeniable delight. After a brief hiatus that left fans heartbroken, its triumphant return reminded us all just how much we missed this unique creation.
While Taco Bell’s version is good, there’s something truly satisfying about recreating beloved restaurant dishes right in your own kitchen. Not only do you get to control the quality of the ingredients, but you can also customize it to perfection, making it even better than the original. This homemade Mexican Pizza recipe captures all the nostalgic flavors you adore, but with a fresh, vibrant twist that will have your family asking for it again and again. Forget the drive-thru; let’s make a Mexican Pizza that truly shines!
Why Make Your Own Mexican Pizza? Beyond the Nostalgia
Beyond satisfying a specific craving, making your own Mexican Pizza offers several advantages. First, you gain complete control over the ingredients. This means choosing leaner ground beef, fresh, high-quality vegetables, and your preferred cheese blend. You can also adjust the spice level, salt content, and even make it vegetarian or vegan with simple substitutions. Second, it’s a fantastic way to involve the family in cooking. Assembling these pizzas is a fun, interactive activity that even kids can enjoy. And let’s be honest, nothing beats the taste of a dish made with love and fresh components, especially when it’s a copycat that rivals (or surpasses) the original!
Essential Ingredients for Your Homemade Mexican Pizza
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the readily available ingredients. You’ll likely have most of these on hand, making it a perfect last-minute dinner idea. Here’s what you’ll need, along with some notes on customization:
- Tortillas: We’re aiming for that signature crispiness, and while Taco Bell traditionally used flour tortillas (which we’ll discuss in more detail later), you can certainly experiment with corn for a gluten-free option or a different texture.
- Refried Beans: The creamy base that makes this pizza distinct. Feel free to use canned refried beans for convenience, or try your hand at homemade refried beans for an extra layer of flavor. Black beans or pinto beans can also be used if refried beans aren’t your preference.
- Ground Beef: Lean ground beef works best, but ground turkey or chicken are excellent alternatives if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just be sure to season it well.
- Taco Seasoning: A packet of your favorite store-bought taco seasoning is perfectly fine, but for an even fresher taste, whip up a batch of homemade taco seasoning. It’s quick, easy, and lets you control the spice and salt.
- Enchilada Sauce: This adds a rich, tangy flavor to the top layer. Canned red enchilada sauce is a convenient choice, or you can elevate your pizza with homemade enchilada sauce. Green enchilada sauce can also provide a delicious twist!
- Colby Jack Cheese: A melty, flavorful cheese is key. Colby Jack offers a great balance, but a Mexican blend, Monterey Jack, or even cheddar would also be fantastic.
- Diced Tomatoes: Freshly diced tomatoes add a pop of color and a burst of juicy freshness.
- Oil: A neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil is ideal for crisping up those tortillas.
The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility. Don’t like refried beans? Skip them! Want to add more toppings? Go for it! Back when Taco Bell first introduced the Mexican Pizza, black olives were a common topping. Feel free to add diced green onions, fresh cilantro, or even some thinly sliced jalapeños for a kick. This is your canvas; make it uniquely yours!
Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting the Perfect Mexican Pizza
Making this homemade Mexican Pizza is surprisingly straightforward. Follow these steps for a perfectly crispy, cheesy, and satisfying meal:
- Prepare the Taco Meat: Start by browning your ground beef (or turkey) in a large skillet. Break it into small pieces as it cooks. Once no longer pink, drain any excess fat. Stir in your taco seasoning and water, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook until most of the liquid has absorbed, creating a flavorful and moist taco filling.
- Crisp the Tortillas: This is a crucial step for that authentic Mexican Pizza experience! In a large skillet or griddle, add a small amount of oil and heat it over medium-high heat. Place your tortillas in the hot oil, cooking them for 2-3 minutes per side, flipping frequently, until they are golden brown and wonderfully crispy. You might need to do this in batches. Don’t overcrowd the pan, and keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- Assemble the First Layer: Once your tortillas are crispy, it’s time to build. Take one crispy tortilla and spread a generous layer of warm refried beans evenly over its surface. Follow this with a layer of your seasoned taco meat.
- Add the Second Tortilla and Sauce: Carefully place a second crispy tortilla directly on top of the taco meat layer. Now, lightly spread your enchilada sauce over this top tortilla. Be mindful not to use too much, as it can make the pizza soggy. Just a thin, even layer is perfect for flavor without sacrificing crispness.
- Top with Cheese and Tomatoes: Sprinkle an even layer of shredded Colby Jack cheese over the enchilada sauce. Then, scatter your diced tomatoes (and any other desired toppings like green onions or olives) over the cheese.
- Bake to Perfection: Transfer your assembled pizzas to a baking sheet. Bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly, and the entire pizza is heated through.
- Rest, Slice, and Serve: Once out of the oven, let the pizzas rest for just a minute or two. This helps the cheese set slightly and makes for cleaner slices. Then, cut into wedges, just like a traditional pizza, and serve immediately. They are fantastic on their own or with your favorite Mexican accompaniments like salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.
Flour vs. Corn Tortillas: Achieving That Signature Crisp
The choice between flour and corn tortillas for your Mexican Pizza is a frequently debated topic, especially when aiming for that Taco Bell copycat flavor. In this recipe, I primarily call for flour tortillas because they are what I personally prefer and believe replicate the Taco Bell experience most closely. Taco Bell themselves traditionally used flour tortillas, often frying them to achieve that super crispy, almost flaky texture.
However, if you prefer corn tortillas, or need a gluten-free option, they absolutely work! The key is in the preparation: you want them thoroughly crisped in oil before assembly. Whether you choose flour or corn, ensuring they are golden and firm before adding your fillings is paramount. Over the years, there has been some discussion among former Taco Bell employees about whether the type of tortilla used has changed or varied by region. Regardless, the consensus for a great homemade version is to use whichever tortilla you like best, as long as it achieves that satisfying crunch when cooked.
Pro Tips for the Best Homemade Mexican Pizza
- Tortilla Crispiness is Key: No matter if you choose flour or corn, dedicate time to getting those tortillas perfectly crispy. A griddle or large cast-iron skillet works wonders. Don’t rush this step, and use just enough oil to lightly coat the pan for frying.
- Don’t Over-Sauce: While delicious, too much enchilada sauce on the top tortilla can lead to a soggy pizza. A thin, even layer is all you need to impart flavor without compromising the texture.
- Consider Cheese in the Middle: While Taco Bell’s version typically doesn’t include cheese between the layers, many home cooks find that adding a small amount of shredded cheese directly on top of the taco meat, before placing the second tortilla, helps to “glue” the layers together and adds extra gooey goodness. It’s a great optional addition if you love cheese!
- Make it Vegetarian: Easily transform this into a delicious vegetarian meal by omitting the ground beef. You can increase the amount of refried beans, or add a layer of seasoned black beans, corn, or sautéed peppers and onions for extra flavor and substance. Just ensure any store-bought refried beans are vegetarian.
- Spice it Up: If you’re a fan of heat, there are several ways to add a kick. Use a hot enchilada sauce, mix some finely diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper into your ground beef, or serve with a side of your favorite hot sauce.
- Homemade is Best: While store-bought works, making your own taco seasoning, enchilada sauce, and refried beans will undeniably elevate the flavors of your homemade Mexican Pizza to another level.
Mexican Pizza Variations & Serving Suggestions
This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for endless customization. For additional toppings, consider adding a sprinkle of green onions, fresh cilantro, sliced black olives, pickled jalapeños, or even a dollop of fresh pico de gallo after baking. You can also experiment with different cheeses like a spicy habanero jack or a smoky gouda for unique flavor profiles.
When it comes to serving, this Mexican Pizza can be a complete meal on its own. However, if you’re hosting a taco night or want to round out the meal, serve it alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette, a side of Mexican rice, or some chunky guacamole and extra salsa for dipping. For a truly indulgent experience, a drizzle of sour cream or crema Mexicana is always a welcome addition!
Frequently Asked Questions About Homemade Mexican Pizza
- Can I prepare Mexican Pizza ahead of time?
- While best served fresh for optimal crispiness, you can prepare the taco meat and chop your toppings ahead of time. You can also crisp the tortillas a few hours in advance and store them at room temperature in an airtight container.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store any leftover Mexican Pizza covered in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Note that the tortillas may lose some crispiness over time.
- What’s the best way to reheat Mexican Pizza?
- For best results, reheat in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the tortillas regain some crispness. Microwaving is not recommended as it will make the tortillas soggy.
- Can I make this gluten-free?
- Yes, absolutely! Simply use corn tortillas instead of flour. Ensure your taco seasoning and enchilada sauce are certified gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten-based thickeners.
Want More Copycat Recipes?
There’s nothing quite like recreating your favorite restaurant dishes in the comfort of your own home. If you enjoyed this Mexican Pizza, be sure to explore more of our popular copycat recipes:
- Canes Sauce
- Pasta Milano
- Cheddar Bay Biscuits
- Cafe Rio Dressing
- Red Lobster Tartar Sauce
- Fiesta Lime Chicken
Mexican Pizza
Erin Sellin
5 minutes
25 minutes
30 minutes
4
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Ingredients
-
1
pound
ground beef
-
1
packet taco seasoning -
3/4
cup
water -
15
oz
refried beans
-
10
oz
enchilada sauce -
1/4
cup
diced tomatoes
-
1 1/2
cup
shredded Colby Jack cheese -
8
flour tortillas
, taco size -
1
Tablespoon
vegetable oil
Instructions
-
Preheat oven to 400º F (200°C).
-
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef, breaking it up into small pieces. Once cooked through, drain any excess fat. Add the taco seasoning and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until most of the liquid is absorbed, about 5-7 minutes.1 pound ground beef,
1 packet taco seasoning,
3/4 cup water -
In a large skillet or griddle, pour half of the vegetable oil. Heat over medium-high heat. Add tortillas, one or two at a time without overcrowding, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, flipping frequently, until they are golden brown and crisp. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and oil, ensuring each tortilla is nicely browned and firm.1 Tablespoon vegetable oil,
8 flour tortillas -
To assemble, spread about 1/4 cup of refried beans evenly over the bottom of each crispy tortilla. Top with an even layer of the prepared taco meat.15 oz refried beans
-
Place another crispy tortilla over the top of the meat layer. Spread about 2 tablespoons of enchilada sauce evenly over this top tortilla, ensuring a thin layer. Divide the diced tomatoes evenly over the sauce on each pizza.10 oz enchilada sauce,
1/4 cup diced tomatoes -
Sprinkle the Colby Jack cheese in an even layer over the top of the pizzas.1 1/2 cup shredded Colby Jack cheese
-
Place each assembled pizza on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is thoroughly melted, bubbly, and everything is piping hot.
-
Let cool for a minute before slicing into wedges and serving immediately with your favorite toppings.
Notes
Nutrition
Calories:
655
kcal
|
Carbohydrates:
54
g
|
Protein:
37
g
|
Fat:
32
g
|
Saturated Fat:
12
g
|
Polyunsaturated Fat:
15
g
|
Trans Fat:
1
g
|
Cholesterol:
100
mg
|
Sodium:
1251
mg
|
Fiber:
6
g
|
Sugar:
6
g
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Additional Info
Erin Sellin
5 minutes
25 minutes
30 minutes
Dinner Recipes
American, Mexican
4
655
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