Taco Bell Mexican Pizza

This Mexican pizza recipe recreates the Taco Bell classic in a homemade version that is crispier, more flavorful, and customizable. Fried tortillas layered with refried beans, seasoned ground beef, enchilada sauce, and melted cheese come together to create a dish that brings the fun and comfort of the original to your kitchen. If you’ve ever loved that mix of textures and bold flavors from Taco Bell, making this at home is a game changer.

I first made this on a quiet weekend and it instantly became a family favorite. The crunch of the fried tortillas combined with seasoned beef and creamy beans is absolutely addictive. We now make it whenever we crave comfort food with a TexMex twist.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: choose lean for less grease or use ground turkey or chicken if you prefer lighter meat
• Taco seasoning: pick your favorite brand or make your own blend for fresher spice
• Water: needed to simmer and slightly thicken the seasoned meat for that saucy texture
• Refried beans: canned or homemade warming them first makes spreading easier and tastier
• Enchilada sauce: adds rich tomato and chili flavor that mimics the original Taco Bell sauce
• Shredded Mexican cheese blend: use a mix of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and possibly some queso quesadilla for gooey meltiness
• Flour tortillas: medium size works well consider smaller ones for bite sized pizzas or larger ones for hearty servings
• Vegetable oil for frying: a neutral oil with a high smoke point keeps the tortillas crisp without overpowering flavor

Instructions

Sauté the Ground Beef:

In a large skillet cook the ground beef over medium heat until fully browned and crumbled which usually takes about 7 to 8 minutes Drain excess grease then return the beef to the skillet Add the taco seasoning and water Stir well and bring to a boil Reduce the heat and simmer while stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens about 3 to 5 minutes

Fry the Tortillas:

Pour vegetable oil into a skillet to a depth of about a quarter inch Heat the oil over medium heat until hot but not smoking Carefully add one tortilla at a time Fry for 2 to 4 minutes flipping often so both sides get crispy and golden Remove tortillas and drain on paper towels Repeat with remaining tortillas

Warm and Spread Refried Beans:

Microwave the refried beans in a microwave safe bowl for about 30 seconds or until warm This makes them easier to spread on the fried tortillas

Assemble the Mexican Pizzas:

Spread a generous layer of warm refried beans over each fried tortilla Follow with a layer of seasoned beef Place another fried tortilla on top Slather about two tablespoons of enchilada sauce on the top tortilla Sprinkle with shredded cheese and repeat for all pizzas

Bake to Melt Cheese:

Arrange assembled pizzas on a large nonstick baking sheet Bake in a preheated 400 degree oven for 8 to 10 minutes or until the cheese has melted and everything is bubbly

Serve and Garnish:

Top with your favorite fresh ingredients such as diced tomatoes sliced black olives or chopped green onions if desired Serve immediately for best crispness and flavor

This dish is all about bringing back those nostalgic Taco Bell flavors with a fresh homemade touch. The fried tortillas are my favorite part because they add a satisfying crunch that fast food just cannot match. One time my kids surprised me making these themselves for a family movie night and it became a beloved tradition.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days Reheat in an air fryer or toaster oven for best results to regain crispiness You can also freeze wrapped well using plastic wrap followed by foil Freeze for up to two months to enjoy later Let thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken are tasty lighter alternatives to ground beef Vegetarian options could include cooked lentils or plant based meat substitutes If you do not have enchilada sauce mix some salsa with a bit of tomato sauce and chili powder to approximate the flavor Try baking or air frying tortillas instead of frying if you prefer less oil but still want crispiness

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Mexican pizzas with fresh guacamole sour cream or a dollop of salsa for added brightness Pair with a side of Mexican rice or a crisp green salad to round out the meal Top with sliced jalapenos or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro if you like a spicy kick

Serve immediately to enjoy maximum crispness and flavor. Enjoy customizing toppings to make it your own.

FAQs About This Recipe

→ Is this Mexican Pizza traditionally Mexican?

No, this dish is an American adaptation inspired by Mexican flavors, combining crispy tortillas with seasoned beef, beans, and cheese for a fusion of tastes.

→ Can I use different tortilla sizes?

Yes, tortillas can be small street taco size or larger burrito shells. You can also use thicker taco bowl shells and bake them for a different texture.

→ What sauce is used on the top layer?

The topping is a savory enchilada sauce, often mixed with diced tomatoes to mimic the classic sauce used in the original version.

→ Is frying the tortillas necessary?

Frying creates a crisp, golden shell, but baking or air frying the tortillas are suitable alternatives for a lighter texture.

→ How should leftovers be stored and reheated?

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to two days or freeze wrapped tightly. Reheat in an air fryer, toaster oven, or microwave for best results.