How to Make Taco Bell’s Legendary Mexican Pizza at Home

Who doesn’t have fond memories of late-night Taco Bell runs during their college days, or grabbing a quick and savory meal on the go? While many of us have our favorites, few dishes have a following that can compare to the love people have for the Mexican Pizza. In fact, the discontinuation of the Mexican Pizza in 2020 left fans so heartbroken, Taco Bell quickly brought it back due to popular demand - this seems to be a recurring theme with Taco Bell as they did the same thing with the Cheesy Gordita Crunch in 2013.

What arguably makes the Mexican Pizza such a beloved dish are the layers of crispy tortillas with savory fillings and melty cheese, creating a mouthwatering combination that's hard to resist. 

In this post, I’ll show you how to make another restaurant recreation - the iconic Taco Bell Mexican Pizza!

Why Make Mexican Pizza at Home?

First off, making Mexican Pizza at home allows you to customize it to your taste. Whether you're a fan of extra spicy flavors or have dietary restrictions that fast food doesn't cater to, homemade means your pizza, your rules. Plus, it's a great way to involve family or friends in cooking, turning meal prep into a fun activity.

Ingredients Needed

To whip up this delicious Mexican Pizza, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Tortillas: Flour tortillas are recommended for their size and texture, mirroring the Taco Bell original. If you prefer, corn tortillas can be substituted for a gluten-free option.
• Refried Beans: These serve as one of the base layers. Feel free to use canned beans or make your own.
• Ground Beef: Seasoned with taco seasoning for that classic Taco Bell flavor. Alternatively, use ground turkey for a lighter version.
• Taco Seasoning: Either store-bought or homemade, this will give your meat the quintessential taco flavor.
• Enchilada Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or whip up a batch from scratch.
• Colby Jack Cheese: Shredded for easy melting. You can also use a Mexican cheese blend if preferred.
• Diced Tomatoes: Fresh or canned, these add a juicy crunch.
• Oil: For frying the tortillas to crispy perfection.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1. Prepare the Taco Meat:

Brown your choice of ground meat in a pan and drain the excess fat.

Sprinkle with taco seasoning and a little water, simmering until fully cooked.

Step 2. Crisp the Tortillas:

In a skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium-high heat.

Fry each tortilla until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.

Step 3. Assemble Your Pizza:

Spread a thin layer of refried beans on one tortilla. Top with a generous amount of taco meat. Place another crispy tortilla on top.

Spoon enchilada sauce over the top tortilla, and sprinkle with shredded cheese and diced tomatoes.

Step 4. Bake Your Mexican Pizza:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Place the assembled pizzas on a baking sheet and bake until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden, about 5-10 minutes.

Step 5. Final Touches:

Let the pizzas cool slightly, then slice into quarters. Serve with sides of sour cream, guacamole, or salsa.

Customize Your Creation

One of the joys of homemade Mexican Pizza is making it your own. Add layers of other favorites like sliced jalapeños, black olives, or even some green onions for an extra kick and freshness. If you’re vegetarian, skip the meat and double up on beans, or use a meat substitute.

Conclusion

Recreating Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza at home is not just about reliving those delicious bites but also about tailoring them to your current tastes and dietary preferences. This recipe is straightforward, fun to make, and even more enjoyable to eat. Gather your ingredients, and let’s bring back the nostalgia of Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza right in our kitchens!