It is 6pm and the family is hungry. You want something fun but dinner needs to happen fast. This Copycat Taco Bell Mexican Pizza is your new secret weapon.
It delivers all that iconic fast-food flavor right in your kitchen. You get the crunch you crave without the drive-thru wait. It is warm, cheesy, and perfect for a stress-free weeknight meal.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This recipe is a total budget-saver for growing families. You likely have most of these simple ingredients in your pantry. It is completely kid-approved and fun to assemble together.
The double-layered crunch makes every single bite feel like a treat. It is much fresher than the original version from the restaurant. You can control the quality of the beef and the spice level.
Simple Method
Making these pizzas is much easier than it looks. You start by frying the tortillas until they are golden and crisp. Then, you simply layer the beans, beef, and sauce. A quick melt in the oven brings it all together.
Even if you are a beginner, you can master this. The steps are straightforward and move very quickly. You will feel like a kitchen pro in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are easy to find at any local grocery store.
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 can (16 oz) refried beans
- 8 small (6-inch) flour tortillas
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil for frying
- 1/2 cup red enchilada sauce
- 1/4 cup chunky mild salsa
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
- 1/2 cup Roma tomatoes, diced
- 2 tablespoons green onions, thinly sliced
Step-by-Step
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, then drain the excess fat.
- Stir in the taco seasoning and water; reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes until the liquid has reduced and the meat is well-coated.
- Heat vegetable oil in a small frying pan over medium heat; fry each tortilla individually for 30-45 seconds per side until crispy and golden brown, then drain on paper towels.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the red enchilada sauce and salsa to create the signature pizza sauce.
- Warm the refried beans in a microwave-safe bowl for 60 seconds to ensure a smooth, spreadable consistency.
- To assemble the base, spread approximately 1/4 cup of refried beans onto 4 of the fried tortillas, followed by a layer of the seasoned ground beef.
- Place a second crispy tortilla on top of the beef layer for each pizza.
- Spread 2 tablespoons of the prepared pizza sauce over the top tortilla and sprinkle with 1/2 cup of shredded Mexican blend cheese.
- Place the assembled pizzas on a baking sheet and broil on high for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with diced tomatoes and sliced green onions.
- Allow the pizzas to rest for 2 minutes before slicing into quarters with a pizza cutter.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve these pizzas while they are still hot and crispy. Use a pizza cutter to make perfect, easy-to-grab quarters. They pair beautifully with a side of cool sour cream. Add a simple salad to make it a complete meal.
Set them out on a large platter for a fun family dinner. Your kids will love picking their own toppings. It is a great way to make memories at the table.
How to Store Leftovers
If you have leftovers, keep them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the fridge for two days. To keep the crunch, reheat them in the oven at 350°F. Avoid the microwave so the tortillas do not get soggy. A few minutes in the oven makes them taste fresh again.
Tips for Best Results
- Don’t skip frying the tortillas for that authentic crunch.
- Drain the beef well to prevent the pizza from getting greasy.
- Warm the beans before spreading so the tortillas do not break.
- Watch the broiler closely so the cheese does not burn.
- Let the pizzas rest before slicing to keep the layers intact.
- Substitute ground turkey for a lighter version of this dish.
- Add a pinch of fresh cilantro for a bright pop of flavor.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Make it vegetarian by using extra beans instead of beef.
- Use spicy salsa if you want an extra kick of heat.
- Swap the Mexican blend for sharp cheddar for a bolder taste.
- Add sliced jalapeños on top for a spicy crunch.
- Try corn tortillas for a different texture and flavor.
Quick Answers
Can I bake the tortillas instead of frying?
You can bake them at 400°F until they are crisp. However, frying gives that specific Copycat Taco Bell Mexican Pizza texture. Baking is a great lower-fat option if you prefer.
Is this recipe spicy?
This version is very mild and family-friendly. You can easily adjust the heat by choosing a spicy salsa. Adding hot sauce to the meat also works well.
Can I make these ahead of time?
You can prep the beef and sauce in advance. Assemble and bake them right before serving for the best crunch. This keeps the tortillas from getting soft.
I hope this fun dinner brings a little joy to your busy week. It is a family favorite that everyone will ask for again. Happy cooking!
— Lidia
Copycat Taco Bell Mexican Pizza
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
- 1/4 cup wate r
- 1 can (16 oz) refried beans
- 8 small (6-inch) flour tortillas
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil for frying
- 1/2 cup red enchilada sauce
- 1/4 cup chunky mild salsa
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
- 1/2 cup Roma tomatoes, diced
- 2 tablespoons green onions, thinly sliced
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, then drain the excess fat.
- Stir in the taco seasoning and water; reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes until the liquid has reduced and the meat is well-coated.
- Heat vegetable oil in a small frying pan over medium heat; fry each tortilla individually for 30-45 seconds per side until crispy and golden brown, then drain on paper towels.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the red enchilada sauce and salsa to create the signature pizza sauce.
- Warm the refried beans in a microwave-safe bowl for 60 seconds to ensure a smooth, spreadable consistency.
- To assemble the base, spread approximately 1/4 cup of refried beans onto 4 of the fried tortillas, followed by a layer of the seasoned ground beef.
- Place a second crispy tortilla on top of the beef layer for each pizza.
- Spread 2 tablespoons of the prepared pizza sauce over the top tortilla and sprinkle with 1/2 cup of shredded Mexican blend cheese.
- Place the assembled pizzas on a baking sheet and broil on high for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with diced tomatoes and sliced green onions.
- Allow the pizzas to rest for 2 minutes before slicing into quarters with a pizza cutter.
