This Mexican Pizza brings together all the best flavors of your favorite fast food, but made fresh at home! Crispy tortillas serve as the perfect base, layered with refried beans, savory seasoned beef, rich enchilada sauce, and plenty of gooey melted cheese. A final touch of fresh tomatoes and green onions makes every bite a delightful mix of crunch, spice, and cheesiness. Not only is this recipe quick and easy, but it’s also perfect for family dinners, taco nights, or anytime you’re craving something deliciously different. It’s customizable too—swap beef for chicken or make it vegetarian by using extra beans and veggies. No drive-thru needed for this irresistible homemade classic!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- ½ cup water
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 1 cup refried beans
- 1 cup enchilada sauce
- 1 ½ cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
- ½ cup diced tomatoes
- ¼ cup green onions, chopped
- ¼ cup black olives, sliced (optional)
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Add taco seasoning and water to the beef, stirring until combined. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a separate pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Lightly fry each tortilla until crispy, then set aside.
- Spread a thin layer of refried beans onto four tortillas, followed by a layer of seasoned beef.
- Place another tortilla on top of each, forming a sandwich-like stack.
- Spread enchilada sauce over the top tortillas and sprinkle shredded cheese over them.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from oven and garnish with diced tomatoes, green onions, and black olives.
- Slice and serve warm.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 480 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
A Little Background: The Story Behind Mexican Pizza
Mexican Pizza is a unique fusion dish that combines the best elements of Mexican and Italian cuisine. Originally popularized by Taco Bell, this dish features crispy tortillas as a pizza crust, topped with seasoned beef, refried beans, enchilada sauce, and a generous helping of melted cheese. The dish is then garnished with fresh tomatoes, green onions, and sometimes black olives for an added burst of flavor. Taco Bell introduced Mexican Pizza in the late 1980s, and it quickly became a fan favorite. However, in 2020, it was temporarily discontinued, leading to a massive outcry from loyal customers. Due to overwhelming demand, Taco Bell brought the dish back in 2022, proving its status as a beloved comfort food. This homemade version allows you to recreate the magic in your own kitchen, with the advantage of customizing ingredients and making a healthier version without sacrificing flavor.
Why This Recipe is the Best
- Better than Fast Food – No more waiting in long drive-thru lines! This homemade version has the same crispy layers, bold flavors, and cheesy goodness—without preservatives or artificial ingredients.
- Customizable for Everyone – You can tweak the protein, cheese, or toppings to fit dietary needs. Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, make it vegetarian with extra beans and veggies, or even go vegan with dairy-free cheese.
- Healthier & Fresher Ingredients – By making it at home, you avoid excess sodium, unhealthy oils, and processed additives commonly found in fast food. Plus, you can use organic or whole-grain tortillas for a more nutritious take.
- Quick & Easy to Make – In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this delicious meal for a satisfying lunch, dinner, or snack. It’s perfect for busy families or weeknight meals.
- Budget-Friendly – Instead of spending money on takeout, you can make multiple servings at home for a fraction of the cost. This recipe uses simple pantry staples, making it affordable and accessible.
What Makes This Mexican Pizza Special?
Unlike traditional pizza, Mexican Pizza swaps the dough for crispy tortillas, giving it a crunchy texture that complements the gooey cheese and flavorful toppings. The combination of refried beans and seasoned beef creates a rich, hearty base, while enchilada sauce adds a tangy, slightly spicy kick. This dish is also perfect for meal prep—you can cook the beef mixture in advance, assemble the pizzas, and bake them when ready to serve. Leftovers store well, making it great for next-day meals.
Tips for the Perfect Mexican Pizza
- Crispy Tortillas are Key – Lightly frying or baking the tortillas before assembling prevents them from becoming soggy and ensures the best texture.
- Use High-Quality Cheese – A blend of cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese mix melts beautifully and enhances the flavor.
- Season the Beef Well – Don’t skip the taco seasoning! You can also add cumin, smoked paprika, or a splash of hot sauce for extra depth.
- Layer Properly – Start with beans, then beef, and top with cheese to create the best balance of flavors.
- Customize Your Toppings – Add jalapeños for spice, avocado for creaminess, or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness.
Pairing Ideas: What to Serve with Mexican Pizza
- Drinks: Pair it with a classic margarita, horchata, or a refreshing agua fresca.
- Sides: Serve with a side of Mexican street corn (elote), guacamole, or a fresh taco salad.
- Extra Toppings: Try adding pickled red onions, crushed tortilla chips, or even a drizzle of spicy chipotle mayo.
Fun Variations to Try
- Taco-Style Pizza – Use crispy tostadas instead of tortillas for an extra crunchy twist.
- Vegetarian Version – Replace the beef with black beans, mushrooms, or tofu for a meat-free option.
- Spicy Mexican Pizza – Add sliced jalapeños, chipotle sauce, or a sprinkle of chili flakes for extra heat.
- Chicken or Seafood Option – Swap the beef for shredded chicken, shrimp, or even chorizo for a different protein twist.
- Cheesy Overload – Double the cheese and add a cheese-stuffed tortilla layer for an indulgent version.
Conclusion
This homemade Mexican Pizza is the ultimate comfort food—crispy, cheesy, and bursting with bold Mexican flavors. Whether you’re a longtime Taco Bell fan or just looking for a fun and easy meal, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to get creative with toppings and flavors. Try it out today and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your home!