Mexican Pizza (Taco Bell-Style)

Introduction

Have you ever wished you could enjoy a Taco Bell Mexican Pizza at home without waiting in line? This homemade Mexican Pizza recipe captures all the layers of crispy tortillas, seasoned beef, beans, melted cheese, and tangy salsa that make the original so irresistible.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or family-friendly meals, this recipe is easy to make, fully customizable, and ready in under 30 minutes. Skip the drive-thru and enjoy a crunchy, cheesy delight in the comfort of your kitchen!

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Ingredients

For the Base:

• 4 small flour tortillas
• 4 small corn tortillas
• 1 tbsp olive oil

For the Filling:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef or turkey
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade: 1 tsp chili powder, ½ tsp cumin, ½ tsp paprika, ¼ tsp garlic powder, salt & pepper)
• 1 cup refried beans (canned or homemade)
• 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
• ½ cup diced tomatoes
• ¼ cup sliced black olives (optional)
• ¼ cup chopped green onions (optional)

For Topping:

• ½ cup salsa or taco sauce
• ¼ cup sour cream or Mexican crema
• Fresh cilantro, chopped

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Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Compared to the fast-food version, this homemade Mexican Pizza is fresher, customizable, and more satisfying, without the wait.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Tortillas

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly brush corn tortillas with olive oil and place them on a baking sheet. Bake 5 minutes until slightly crispy.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned.
2. Drain excess fat and stir in taco seasoning with ¼ cup water. Simmer 2–3 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble the Mexican Pizza

1. Spread refried beans evenly on each crispy corn tortilla.
2. Top with seasoned beef.
3. Add diced tomatoes, black olives, and green onions if desired.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheese generously.
5. Place a flour tortilla on top to form a “sandwich.”

Step 4: Bake

• Return assembled pizzas to the oven for 5–7 minutes, until cheese is melted and tortillas are slightly crispy.

Step 5: Add Toppings & Serve

• Drizzle with salsa or taco sauce, add sour cream, and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve immediately.

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Tips for Success

• For extra crunch, fry the corn tortillas lightly instead of baking.
• Make it vegetarian by using beans, grilled veggies, or plant-based meat.
• Customize toppings: jalapeños, guacamole, or pickled onions work wonderfully.
• Use homemade taco seasoning for a fresher flavor and less sodium.

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Nutrition (per serving, approx.)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	410
Protein	22g
Carbs	35g
Fat	22g
Fiber	6g

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with Mexican rice and beans for a full meal.
• Pair with tortilla chips and guacamole for a party platter.
• Add a side of spicy roasted corn or a fresh salad for extra color and flavor.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Soggy tortillas: Bake or lightly fry corn tortillas before assembly.
2. Undercooked beef: Fully cook meat and drain excess fat.
3. Overloaded toppings: Too many toppings can make the pizza messy; balance for structure.
4. Skipping seasoning: Taco seasoning is essential for authentic flavor.

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Storing Tips

• Store leftover pizzas in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Reheat in the oven for 5–7 minutes to retain crispiness.
• Avoid microwaving directly, as tortillas can get soggy.

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Conclusion

This Mexican Pizza (Taco Bell-Style) is crispy, cheesy, and full of bold flavors. Easy to make at home, it’s perfect for weeknights, parties, or anytime you crave a fast-food favorite without the wait.

👉 Try this recipe today, leave a comment with your favorite toppings, and subscribe for more delicious homemade Mexican favorites!

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FAQs

Q1: Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes! Replace beef with beans, veggies, or plant-based meat.

Q2: Can I freeze assembled Mexican pizzas?
Freeze before baking for up to 2 months; bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

Q3: Can I use store-bought taco sauce?
Absolutely! Choose your favorite brand or make a quick homemade salsa.

Q4: Can I use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of beef?
Yes, simply season the chicken with taco spices and layer as usual.

Q5: How do I keep the tortillas crispy?
Bake or lightly fry the corn tortillas before assembly and avoid excess liquid toppings.