Delicious and Easy Homemade Mexican Pizza

Craving a delicious twist on a classic Taco Bell favorite? Look no further than this mouthwatering recipe for Homemade Mexican Pizza. Perfect for Taco Tuesday or any day when you’re in the mood for a flavorful fiesta, these pizzas are a game-changer. Imagine crispy flour tortillas topped with seasoned ground beef, refried beans, two types of gooey cheese, and zesty enchilada sauce. It’s a taste sensation that will have your taste buds dancing with delight.

I discovered this Homemade Mexican Pizza recipe when Taco Bell removed it from their menu, and let me tell you, it’s even better than the original! The first time I made these, my son’s friend couldn’t get enough, proclaiming them superior to the fast-food version. Even my husband, a self-proclaimed Mexican Pizza aficionado, gave his seal of approval, declaring these homemade pizzas as the ultimate upgrade. With fresh ingredients and endless customization options, these pizzas are taking family dinner nights to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Whether you’re serving them up for a casual family meal or a lively gathering with friends, these Homemade Mexican Pizzas are sure to be a hit. Pair them with Mexican rice for a complete meal or slice them into quarters for a crowd-pleasing appetizer alongside guacamole and queso dip. Get creative with your toppings, from swapping out the meat for veggies to adding a dollop of guacamole post-bake. Embrace the joy of homemade goodness and make these pizzas your new go-to recipe for creating cherished family traditions around the dinner table.

Quick Benefits

• Fresher ingredients than fast food versions
• Customizable to suit different dietary preferences (e.g., lighter option with ground chicken or vegetarian version)
• Versatile dish for family dinners, game day gatherings, or special occasions
• Allows for creative variations (e.g., using queso dip instead of shredded cheese)

Why You’ll Love This Delicious and Easy Homemade Mexican Pizza Recipe

• Recreate the nostalgic Taco Bell experience at home with a homemade Mexican pizza that tastes even better than the original.
• Enjoy the combination of crispy tortillas, seasoned beef, refried beans, and signature enchilada sauce that creates a flavorful and satisfying meal.
• Customize your Mexican pizza with fresh ingredients and toppings like cheddar and pepper-jack cheese, tomatoes, olives, green onions, and jalapeños for a personalized twist.
• Impress your family and friends with a dish that is perfect for Taco Tuesday or game day gatherings, showcasing your culinary skills and creativity.
• Explore various options to lighten up the recipe by using ground chicken or turkey, or go vegetarian with sautéed vegetables, offering versatility to suit different dietary preferences.
• Elevate the dish with additional toppings like guacamole, queso dip, sliced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream, adding layers of flavor and texture to your Mexican pizza.
• Embrace the joy of homemade comfort food that brings loved ones together for a shared meal, creating lasting memories and establishing new family traditions.

Ingredients for Delicious and Easy Homemade Mexican Pizza

Base and Protein

• 6 medium flour tortillas
• 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• ½ cup water

Sauces and Cheese

• 1 can (16 ounces) refried beans
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 can (10 ounces) red enchilada sauce
• 1 cup shredded pepper-jack cheese

Toppings

• 1 small can sliced black olives
• 1 green onion, sliced
• 1 Roma tomato, diced

Optional Additional Toppings

• Jalapeños, sliced
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Guacamole
• Sour cream

How to Make Delicious and Easy Homemade Mexican Pizza

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Tortillas

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and spray two baking sheets with non-stick cooking spray. Arrange 3 tortillas on each sheet in a single layer.

Step 2: Crisp the Tortillas

Bake tortillas for 3-5 minutes, flip, and bake for another 2-5 minutes until golden and crispy. Remove from oven and set aside. Keep oven on.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef

Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a wooden spoon or spatula until fully browned and crumbled. Drain any excess grease.

Step 4: Season the Beef

Stir in taco seasoning and water with beef in skillet. Bring to a boil, then simmer over medium-low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until liquid is mostly absorbed. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 5: Warm the Refried Beans

In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the refried beans for 1-2 minutes until warmed through. Stir before spreading.

Step 6: Begin Assembling Pizzas

Arrange three crisped tortillas on a baking sheet. Spread approximately ⅓ cup of heated refried beans on each tortilla to form a thin, even layer.

Step 7: Add Meat Layer

Evenly spread ⅓ of the seasoned ground beef over the refried beans on each tortilla to create the pizza.

Step 8: Add Second Tortilla

Layer another crispy tortilla on top of the meat to form a sandwich.

Step 9: Top with Sauce and Cheese

Evenly spread 3 tablespoons of enchilada sauce on each top tortilla. Sprinkle a mixture of shredded cheddar and pepper-jack cheeses over each pizza, dividing them evenly among the three pizzas.

Step 10: Add Fresh Toppings

Evenly distribute the diced tomatoes, sliced green onions, and black olive slices over the cheese layer on each pizza.

Step 11: Bake the Pizzas

Return the assembled Mexican pizzas to the oven and bake for about 5 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.

Step 12: Serve

Take the pizzas out of the oven and allow them to cool for 2-3 minutes. Cut each pizza into quarters and serve warm with optional toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, fresh cilantro, or jalapeños.

Storage Tips

To store leftover homemade Mexican pizzas, allow them to cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. Place a sheet of parchment paper in between each pizza to prevent them from sticking together. Refrigerate the pizzas for up to 3-4 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

If you want to freeze the Mexican pizzas for later consumption, wrap each pizza individually in plastic wrap and then foil to protect them from freezer burn. Label the packages with the date and place them in the freezer. They can be stored for up to 2-3 months. To reheat from frozen, bake the pizzas in a preheated oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until hot and crispy.

For best results, avoid reheating the pizzas in the microwave as it can make the tortillas soggy. By following these storage methods, you can enjoy your homemade Mexican pizzas even after the initial meal, whether for a quick lunch or a convenient dinner option.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a vegetarian option, you can easily swap the ground beef with a mix of sautéed bell peppers, onions, and corn seasoned with taco spices. This substitution adds a colorful and flavorful twist to the Mexican pizza while still maintaining the essence of the dish. Additionally, consider adding a layer of guacamole or sliced avocado after baking to provide a creamy and fresh element to the pizza.

If you prefer a lighter alternative to ground beef, try using ground chicken or turkey seasoned with taco spices. This substitution offers a leaner protein option while still delivering the classic Mexican flavors. You can also experiment with different types of cheese such as Monterey Jack or Mexican blend cheese if you prefer milder or different cheese flavors. Another creative twist is to replace the shredded cheese with a thin layer of queso dip for an indulgent and creamy variation that your family will love.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun twist on serving these homemade Mexican pizzas, try setting up a DIY pizza bar for a party or family dinner. Lay out all the toppings like diced tomatoes, sliced olives, jalapeños, and green onions in small bowls so everyone can customize their own pizza just the way they like it. This interactive approach adds a playful element to the meal and allows each person to create their perfect flavor combination.

To elevate the presentation of these Mexican pizzas for a special occasion, consider baking them in individual mini cast-iron skillets or on a large wooden board for a rustic touch. Garnish each pizza with a dollop of sour cream, a scoop of fresh guacamole, and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for a colorful and vibrant finish. The individual servings not only look impressive but also make it easier for guests to enjoy their own personal pizza creation.

FAQs for Delicious and Easy Homemade Mexican Pizza

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas for this recipe?

While corn tortillas can be used as a substitute, they may not crisp up as well in the oven compared to flour tortillas. If you prefer corn tortillas, you can try lightly frying them in oil before assembling the Mexican pizzas.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it?

These Mexican pizzas are best enjoyed fresh for maximum crispiness. However, you can assemble the pizzas ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator before baking. Just make sure to add the fresh toppings like tomatoes, green onions, and cilantro right before serving.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

If you prefer a spicier kick, you can amp up the heat by adding more jalapeños, using a spicier enchilada sauce, or incorporating some hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes into the ground beef mixture. You can also top the pizzas with a drizzle of sriracha or your favorite spicy salsa before serving.

Can I freeze the leftovers of this Mexican pizza?

While these pizzas are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze any leftovers for future meals. Wrap individual portions tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a resealable bag or airtight container before freezing. To reheat, bake the frozen pizza in a preheated oven until heated through.

Conclusion

As you embark on your culinary journey to recreate the beloved Homemade Mexican Pizza, remember that cooking is an art form that allows you to infuse your personal touch into every dish you create. Feel free to experiment with different toppings, spice levels, or even alternative protein options to make this recipe truly your own. The joy of homemade cooking lies in the freedom to tailor dishes to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Whether you are looking to impress your family with a Taco Tuesday treat or searching for a crowd-pleasing appetizer for your next gathering, the Homemade Mexican Pizza is sure to steal the show. The satisfaction of indulging in a crispy, flavorful slice of pizza crafted with love and fresh ingredients is unparalleled. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your favorite toppings, and let the aromas of homemade goodness fill your kitchen. Embrace the process, enjoy the journey, and savor every bite of your delectable creation. Homemade Mexican Pizza – a true labor of love that promises to bring joy and deliciousness to your table.