Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza is a beloved fast-food item that combines the flavors of tacos with the structure of a pizza. Here’s how you can make a copycat version of this classic at home:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 8 small flour tortillas (about 6 inches)
- 1 can refried beans (16 oz)
- 1 cup enchilada sauce or taco sauce
- 1 ½ cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 1 tomato, diced
- ¼ cup green onions, sliced
- ¼ cup black olives, sliced (optional)
- Vegetable oil (for frying or baking tortillas)
Instructions:
- Prepare the beef:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until fully browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
- Add the taco seasoning and follow the instructions on the packet (usually adding some water) to coat the beef in seasoning. Cook for a few more minutes until the beef is seasoned and cooked through. Set aside.
- Crisp the tortillas:
- Frying method: Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the tortillas one at a time, flipping occasionally, until golden and crispy (about 1 minute per side). Drain on paper towels.
- Baking method: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly brush each tortilla with oil and bake on a sheet for 5–7 minutes on each side until crispy and golden brown.
- Assemble the Mexican pizzas:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a layer of refried beans on four of the tortillas, followed by a layer of the seasoned ground beef.
- Top each with another tortilla to create a sandwich-like layer.
- Top the pizzas:
- Spread a thin layer of enchilada or taco sauce over the top tortilla.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese over the sauce.
- Add diced tomatoes, green onions, and sliced black olives (optional) on top.
- Bake:
- Place the assembled pizzas on a baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Once baked, remove from the oven, slice into quarters (like a pizza), and serve hot.
This homemade version of Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza will give you all the flavors you love, with the perfect crispy tortilla base! Enjoy!