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Taco Bell Mexican Pizza

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Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 2 Mexican Pizzas (4 substantial wedges total)
Cooking Intensity: Medium – involves multi-component assembly but uses straightforward techniques.

Ingredients

For the Seasoned Beef:

  • 1/2 pound (225g) lean ground beef (90/10 or 93/7 works well)

  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning (store-bought packet or homemade blend)

  • 1/4 cup water

For the Refried Bean Spread:

  • 1 cup canned refried beans (traditional or spicy)

  • 2 tablespoons taco sauce or mild enchilada sauce

For Assembly & Frying:

  • 4 medium (8-inch) flour tortillas

  • 1/2 to 3/4 cup neutral oil (like vegetable or canola), for frying

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

For the Toppings & Finish:

  • 1/2 cup enchilada sauce or mild taco sauce (for topping)

  • 1 medium tomato, seeds removed and diced

  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced

  • 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional, classic Taco Bell style)

Equipment:

  • Large skillet

  • Small saucepan

  • Paper towels

  • Baking sheet

  • Pastry brush

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Components

  1. Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, until no pink remains. Drain any excess fat. Add the taco seasoning and 1/4 cup water. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 3-5 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and the beef is richly seasoned. Set aside.

  2. Prepare the Bean Spread: In a small saucepan, combine the refried beans and 2 tablespoons of taco or enchilada sauce. Warm over low heat, stirring frequently, until smooth and spreadable. This loosens the beans for easy application. Set aside.

  3. Prep Toppings: Dice the tomato and slice the green onions. Combine the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses in a bowl. Have your 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce ready with a pastry brush.

Step 2: Fry the Tortillas

  1. Heat 1/2 inch of oil in your cleaned large skillet over medium heat until shimmering (about 350°F/175°C). To test, a small piece of tortilla should sizzle immediately.

  2. Fry Individually: Carefully add one flour tortilla to the hot oil. Fry for about 30-45 seconds per side, using tongs to flip, until golden brown, crisp, and slightly puffed. It should be firm, not floppy.

  3. Drain: Transfer the fried tortilla to a plate lined with several layers of paper towels to drain. Repeat with the remaining three tortillas. Let them cool slightly. This step is crucial for the signature crisp texture that holds the layers.

Step 3: Assemble the Mexican Pizzas

  1. Preheat your oven’s broiler on high. Position a rack in the upper third of the oven.

  2. Place two fried tortillas on a baking sheet. These are your bases.

  3. First Layer: Spread a generous, even layer of the warm bean mixture (about 1/4 cup each) over each base tortilla.

  4. Second Layer: Sprinkle a layer of the seasoned beef over the beans.

  5. Third Layer: Carefully place the remaining two fried tortillas on top to create the “pizza” top.

  6. Sauce & Cheese: Lightly brush the top of each pizza with the reserved 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce. Immediately sprinkle the blended cheeses generously and evenly over the sauce, covering the surface.

Step 4: Broil and Finish

  1. Place the baking sheet under the broiler. Watch closely! Broil for 2-4 minutes, rotating the sheet if needed, until the cheese is completely melted, bubbly, and just starting to spot with brown.

  2. Remove from the oven. Immediately garnish with diced tomato, green onions, and olives (if using). Let the pizzas rest for 2-3 minutes to set slightly—this makes them easier to cut.

  3. Slice and Serve: Use a sharp pizza cutter or chef’s knife to cut each Mexican Pizza into 4 wedges. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Chef’s Notes & Tips for Success

  • Tortilla Tips: For extra-sturdy shells, you can “double-fry” each tortilla: fry for 30 seconds, let drain for 30 seconds, then fry again for another 15-20 seconds per side. This creates a bubble-resistant base.

  • Shortcut Method: To save time and reduce oil, you can brush both sides of the tortillas with oil and bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 6-8 minutes per side until crisp. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

  • Customize It: Make it vegetarian by using plant-based ground “beef” or seasoned lentils. Add a layer of diced onions or jalapeños under the cheese for extra kick. A drizzle of sour cream or scoop of guacamole on the side is highly recommended.

  • Make-Ahead: You can cook the beef and bean mixture up to 2 days ahead. Store covered in the refrigerator and reheat gently before assembling.

Nutritional Information (Per 1/2 Pizza / 2 Wedges)

Please note: This is a homemade approximation. Values can vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.

  • Calories: ~680 kcal

  • Total Fat: 42g

    • Saturated Fat: 16g

  • Cholesterol: 95mg

  • Sodium: 1480mg

  • Total Carbohydrates: 45g

    • Dietary Fiber: 6g

    • Sugars: 6g

  • Protein: 32g

Enjoy the iconic, craveable flavors of this fast-food legend, made fresh and hot in your own kitchen. The combination of crispy layers, savory fillings, and cool, fresh toppings is truly irresistible!

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