Name: Delightful Mexican Pizza Ready in Just 15 Minutes!
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces Flour Tortillas (or corn tortillas for gluten-free); 1 cup Refried Beans (canned for quick preparation); 1 pound Ground Beef (regular or lean); 1 packet Taco Seasoning (store-bought or homemade); 0.5 cup Water (for dissolving taco seasoning); 1 cup Enchilada Sauce (or taco sauce as substitute); 2 cups Shredded Cheese (blend of cheddar, mozzarella, or Mexican cheese); 1 cup Diced Tomatoes (or other veggies); 0.5 cup Red Onion (or green onions for milder taste); 0.5 cup Black Olives (optional); 0.5 cup Sour Cream (or Greek yogurt as substitute); 0.25 cup Green Onions (or flat-leaf parsley as alternative)

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As I flipped through my recipe book, I stumbled upon a gem that took me right back to those late-night fast food runs. This Quick & Easy Taco Bell Copycat Mexican Pizza brings the nostalgia of childhood meals directly to your kitchen in just 15 minutes. With a crispy tortilla base layered with seasoned ground beef and oozing cheese, this dish is not only a delightful crowd-pleaser but also a fantastic way to shake up Taco night. Whether you’re whipping it up in an air fryer or baking it in the oven, you’ll have a fun and flavorful meal that keeps dinner stress at bay. Are you ready to dive into this tasty twist on pizza?

Why is this Mexican Pizza a must-try?

Speedy Preparation: This dish comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings.

Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you prefer the air fryer, oven, or pan frying, you can choose the best method for your kitchen.

Endless Customization: Feel free to swap out proteins or add your favorite toppings for a unique twist every time. Try it with our Mexican Rotisserie Chicken for an additional flavor boost!

Family-Friendly Appeal: With familiar flavors and a fun presentation, this recipe is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.

Crispy and Cheesy Perfection: Enjoy the satisfying combination of crispy tortillas and gooey melted cheese, providing a delightful textural contrast in every bite.

Get ready for a meal that’s not just quick and easy but also deliciously comforting!

Mexican Pizza Ingredients

• Curious about what goes into this delightful dish? Let’s break it down!

For the Pizza Base

Flour Tortillas – A perfect crispy base; feel free to substitute with corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.
Refried Beans – Adds creaminess and acts as a binder; canned varieties make it easy and quick.

For the Filling

Ground Beef – The main protein choice; regular or lean beef suits any dietary preference.
Taco Seasoning – Elevates flavor depth; can be store-bought or homemade for a custom touch.
Water – Necessary for dissolving the taco seasoning and enhancing the mix.
Enchilada Sauce – Moistens and adds robust flavors; taco sauce works as an optional substitute.

For the Toppings

Shredded Cheese – Melty goodness; a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, or Mexican cheese works best.
Diced Tomatoes – Freshness and vivid color; try other veggies like peppers for additional flavor.
Red Onion – Brings a nice crunch; replace with green onions for a milder taste.
Black Olives – Adds a salty kick; optional if you prefer a simpler flavor.

For Garnish

Sour Cream – Balances the spices beautifully; Greek yogurt is a healthy substitute.
Green Onions – A refreshing garnish that adds brightness; flat-leaf parsley could be an alternative.

With these essential ingredients, getting ready to make your Mexican Pizza will be both simple and satisfying!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mexican Pizza

Step 1: Cook Ground Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and sauté for 5-8 minutes until it’s browned and cooked through. Use a wooden spoon to break the beef into small pieces, making sure it’s fully cooked with no pink remaining. Once done, drain any excess grease to keep your Mexican Pizza from becoming greasy.

Step 2: Season Beef
Add taco seasoning, water, and enchilada sauce to the cooked ground beef in the skillet. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Once the mixture is well combined and warmed through, remove it from heat, ready for layering on your Mexican Pizza.

Step 3: Assemble Pizzas
On a clean surface, take one flour tortilla and spread a layer of refried beans evenly over it. Then, add a generous layer of the seasoned beef mixture, followed by a sprinkle of shredded cheese. Top with another tortilla to create a delightful, layered Mexican Pizza ready for cooking.

Step 4: Add Sauces
Spread enchilada sauce over the top tortilla to give your Mexican Pizza a rich flavor boost, making it even more irresistible. Finish by sprinkling more shredded cheese on top, ensuring it’s nicely coated. This cheesy layer will create a deliciously gooey topping once baked or air-fried.

Step 5: Cooking Methods
For the cooking, you have three options:

Air Fryer: Preheat to 400°F and cook each assembled pizza for about 5 minutes until crispy and golden brown.
Oven: Preheat to 350°F and place the pizza on a lined sheet pan to bake for 8-10 minutes until it’s bubbling and the cheese is melted.
Pan Frying: In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat and cover. Cook each pizza for 4-5 minutes per side until crispy and the cheese melts beautifully.

Step 6: Serving
Once cooked to a golden, crispy perfection, transfer your wonderful Mexican Pizza to a plate. Optionally, garnish with fresh diced tomatoes, red onion, black olives, sour cream, and chopped green onions for a burst of color and flavor. Your tantalizing Mexican Pizza is now ready to be enjoyed!

Mexican Pizza Variations & Substitutions

Feel the freedom to customize your Mexican Pizza and make it even more delightful with these fun twists!

Ground Turkey: Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter alternative without losing flavor.
This option is a great way to enjoy the same comforting dish with a healthier profile.
Plant-Based Delight: For a vegetarian option, use your favorite plant-based meat alternative.
Rich in flavor and texture, it will make the dish satisfying while catering to diet preferences.
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for an extra kick.
A little bit of heat elevates the entire experience and can become your new favorite twist!
Zesty Guacamole: Top your pizza with fresh guacamole instead of sour cream for a creamy, avocado-rich garnish.
This adds a burst of flavor that contrasts beautifully with the cheese and spices.
Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for unique melting qualities and flavors.
Each cheese brings its distinct charm, enhancing the taco-pizza fusion with new sensations.
Additional Toppings: Try adding grilled veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for extra color and nutrition.
These toppings add delightful flavors and create a more vibrant, wholesome dish.
Corn Tortillas: Use corn tortillas instead of flour for a gluten-free option without sacrificing texture.
The distinct taste of corn perfectly complements the Mexican-themed ingredients.

If you’re looking to get adventurous, consider pairing your Mexican Pizza with a serving of creamy Mexican Street Corn for a delightful combination that brings the fiesta right to your dining table!

Expert Tips for Mexican Pizza

Fresh Tortillas: Ensure your tortillas are fresh for maximum crispiness; stale tortillas can result in a soggy base.
Don’t Overcrowd: Avoid overcrowding in the air fryer or oven; give each pizza space for even cooking and a desired crunch.
Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheese varieties for unique flavors; a good melting cheese is key for that gooey experience.
Layer Wisely: Spread refried beans and meat evenly to create a solid base; uneven layering may lead to a messy pizza!
Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the cooking time; each method varies slightly, and you want that perfect crispy finish.

Make Ahead Options

These Mexican Pizza beauties are perfect for busy weeknights! You can assemble the pizzas up to 24 hours in advance by layering your refried beans, seasoned beef, and cheese between the tortillas, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container. This method not only saves time but also keeps flavors intact. Just remember to refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. When it’s time to enjoy your meal, simply bake them in the oven or air-fry as directed, and they’ll come out just as delicious and crispy! This way, you can have a delightful homemade pizza experience without all the last-minute stress.

Storage Tips for Mexican Pizza

Fridge: Store any leftover Mexican Pizza in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its flavor and texture.

Freezer: If you want to freeze your Mexican Pizza for later, wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating: For the best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or in an air fryer at 350°F for 5 minutes to regain the crispiness.

Make-Ahead: Assembled but uncooked Mexican Pizzas can be refrigerated for up to 1 day before cooking, making it easy to prepare your meal in advance.

What to Serve with Quick & Easy Taco Bell Copycat Mexican Pizza

Transform your quick and easy Mexican Pizza into a complete meal with delightful sides and accompaniments.

Fresh Salsa: This vibrant and zesty dip elevates flavors while adding freshness. Perfect for scooping and enjoying alongside every slice.
Guacamole: Creamy and smooth, guacamole enhances the richness of the pizza. Pairing it gives an irresistibly delicious texture that complements every bite.
Mexican Street Corn Salad: A crunchy side with sweet corn, cheese, and lime creates a festive and colorful addition to your meal. The flavors harmonize beautifully with the spices in your pizza.
Refried Beans: Serve a side of refried beans for extra protein and creaminess. This traditional side enhances the overall Mexican experience.
Spicy Jalapeño Slices: Elevate the heat of your meal with jalapeños! Their spicy kick pairs perfectly with the cheesy goodness of the pizza.
Crisp Green Salad: A light and refreshing salad with mixed greens and lime vinaigrette will balance the richness of your Mexican Pizza wonderfully. The crunch adds a satisfying contrast!
Chilled Mexican Beer: Enjoying a cold cerveza brings a classic touch to your meal. The beer’s refreshing qualities can elevate your dining experience and complement the dish expertly.

Serving these delightful accompaniments alongside your Mexican Pizza will create a lively and satisfying meal that everyone will love!

Mexican Pizza Recipe FAQs

What kind of tortillas should I use for my Mexican Pizza?
I recommend using fresh flour tortillas for a crispy base, but feel free to swap them for corn tortillas if you need a gluten-free option. Just ensure they are sturdy enough to hold all the toppings!

How should I store leftover Mexican Pizza?
Store any leftover Mexican Pizza in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps it flavorful and helps maintain its texture. If you notice it getting a bit soggy, reheating in the oven or air fryer can restore the crispiness.

Can I freeze my Mexican Pizza?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the assembled but uncooked Mexican Pizza securely in plastic wrap and then with aluminum foil. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What if my ground beef doesn’t cook evenly?
No worries! If you find your ground beef isn’t browning uniformly, try using a wooden spoon to break it up into smaller pieces as it cooks. Also, make sure your skillet isn’t overcrowded and that you’re cooking it over medium heat to achieve an even cook throughout.

Can I make this Mexican Pizza with a different protein?
Very! Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meats for a healthier alternative. Each option will lend its own unique flavor while keeping the spirit of the dish intact.

What toppings can I add to customize my Mexican Pizza?
The possibilities are endless! You can add jalapeños for heat, diced avocados for creaminess, or even swap in different cheeses. You could also embellish with fresh cilantro or lime juice after cooking for that extra flavor explosion.