Copycat Taco Bell Mexican Pizzas: A Delicious Twist on a Fast Food Favorite

Introduction

If you’re a fan of Taco Bell, then you’ve likely experienced the deliciousness of their Mexican pizzas. This beloved menu item combines layers of seasoned beef, beans, cheese, and tangy toppings—all conveniently tucked between two crispy tortillas. The great news? You can recreate this iconic dish right at home with a few simple ingredients! This recipe is perfect for satisfying cravings, hosting parties, or enjoying a cozy family dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Homemade Goodness: Skip the drive-thru and enjoy a fresher, more customizable version.
• Quick & Easy: Whip up this dish in under 30 minutes for a speedy weeknight meal.
• Budget-Friendly: Save money by making your own version without sacrificing flavor.
• Customizable: Adjust the ingredients and toppings to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients

For the Mexican Pizza:

• 8 small flour tortillas (or corn tortillas for a gluten-free option)
• 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning)
• 1 cup refried beans
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend cheese)
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
• 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
• 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
• 1/4 cup salsa or taco sauce
• Sour cream for serving (optional)
• Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

For Homemade Taco Seasoning (optional):

• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

1. Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add Seasoning: Drain any excess grease. Stir in the taco seasoning and follow package instructions (usually adding a little water). If making your own seasoning, mix in the spices listed above and add water as needed. Stir until well combined and let it simmer for a couple of minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Tortillas

1. Warm the Tortillas: In a separate skillet or oven, warm the tortillas briefly until soft and pliable. This prevents them from cracking when layering.

Step 3: Layer the Pizza

1. First Layer: Place one tortilla in a greased baking dish or on a baking sheet. Spread a layer of refried beans over the tortilla, followed by a layer of seasoned beef.
2. Second Layer: Place another tortilla on top of the beef. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, and olives (if using) on top.
3. Repeat: Continue layering with another tortilla, followed by more beans and beef, then cheese. Repeat this pattern until you stack the tortillas to your desired height, finishing with a tortilla topped with cheese.

Step 4: Bake the Mexican Pizza

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bake: Place the layered Mexican pizza in the preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the tortillas are crispy.

Step 5: Serve

1. Garnish: Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Top it with shredded lettuce, salsa or taco sauce, and a dollop of sour cream if desired.
2. Slice & Enjoy: Cut into wedges and serve with additional toppings like chopped green onions or more salsa.

Tips for the Best Mexican Pizza

• Crispy Tortillas: For an extra crispy pizza, lightly fry the tortillas in a skillet with a little oil before assembling.
• Cheese Choices: Feel free to mix cheeses to create a more complex flavor profile. Pepper jack or Monterey jack are great additions!
• Boost Flavor: For added flavor, consider mixing some diced jalapeños into the beef mixture or topping.

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with a combination of black beans, corn, and diced peppers for a delicious veggie version.
• Chicken Version: Use shredded rotisserie chicken in place of ground beef for a different flavor.
• Spicy Twist: Add diced green chiles or fresh jalapeños to the beef mixture for some heat.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Reheat in the oven for the best texture, or in the microwave if you’re in a hurry.

Nutritional Information

While specific nutritional details will vary based on the exact ingredients used, a typical serving of homemade Mexican pizza provides a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fat. Make sure to adjust ingredients to your diet preferences!

Conclusion

Creating your own copycat Taco Bell Mexican pizzas at home is not only simple but also allows you to tailor the flavors to your liking. With a crispy exterior and loads of flavorful toppings, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!

Enjoy your homemade Mexican pizzas!