Tex-Mex
Taco Bell Inspired Mexican Pizza
Two crispy tortillas layered with seasoned beef, refried beans, enchilada sauce, melted cheese, and fresh tomatoes for a homemade version of the fan-favorite Mexican Pizza.
Inspired by Taco Bell
Prep
20 min
Cook
15 min
Serves
4 servings
Difficulty
Medium
Method
Recipe notes
Fry tortillas until fully crisp and drain them on a rack, not a flat plate. Use thin layers of beans, beef, and sauce; heavy or wet layers make the bottom tortilla bend before the cheese melts.
Planning, storage, and serving
Storage and reheating
Refrigerate beef, beans, sauce, cheese, and toppings separately for up to 3 days. Store crisp tortillas airtight at room temperature for 1 day. Assemble and bake only when serving; finished pizzas do not freeze or reheat crisply.
Make-ahead tips
Cook beef and warm beans up to 2 days ahead, and fry tortillas several hours ahead. Reheat hot fillings before assembling, then add tomatoes and green onions after baking.
What to serve with it
- - Shredded lettuce and pico de gallo
- - Corn salsa or black beans
- - Lime wedges and hot sauce
Equipment needed
- - Large skillet
- - Sheet pan
- - Wire rack and instant-read thermometer
Difficulty explained
The medium rating reflects frying, layering without sogginess, and safely cooking ground beef.
Nutrition estimate
Calories
870
Protein
42g
Carbs
72g
Fat
45g
Sat. fat
18g
Fiber
9g
Sugar
6g
Sodium
1700mg
Estimated nutrition per serving. Values are approximate and can change materially with brands, substitutions, optional toppings, portion size, and cooking method.
Alternatives
Apply a reviewed substitution to this temporary working copy. The published recipe stays unchanged.
Gluten-free flour-style tortillas
Use sturdy gluten-free flour-style tortillas in the same size.
Ground turkey
Use an equal weight of 85-93% lean ground turkey.
Canola oil
Use canola oil in the same amount.
Type the ingredient you're missing — we'll find what you can use instead.
Pitfalls to Watch Out For
- Pale, flexible tortillas collapse under toppings; fry or bake until crisp all the way to the center.
- Too much enchilada sauce soaks the top layer; spread a thin coating and serve extra sauce separately.
- Cook beef to 160°F (71°C) and keep its pan and utensils away from tomatoes and green onions.
Nutrition Context
- Beef, beans, and cheese provide protein, while multiple tortillas, frying oil, cheese, and sauces make this calorie- and sodium-dense.
- Baked tortillas, leaner portions of cheese and beef, and extra fresh toppings can reduce richness and add fiber.
FAQ
How do I keep the tortillas crisp?
Fry until fully golden, drain on a rack, and assemble only when the beef and beans are ready. Wet toppings soften the layers quickly.
Can I bake the tortillas instead of frying?
Yes. Brush lightly with oil and bake, flipping once, until rigid and golden. The result is lighter but slightly less blistered.
Why should I add water to the taco seasoning?
A splash of water helps the spices coat the beef evenly and simmer into a cohesive filling instead of tasting dusty.
Can Mexican pizzas be assembled ahead?
Prepare every component ahead, but keep tortillas separate. Assemble and bake immediately before serving so the base remains crunchy.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Use a 375 F oven or air fryer until the cheese bubbles and the base firms. Remove cold lettuce or sour cream before reheating.
What sides pair best with this dish?
Good pairings include Shredded lettuce and pico de gallo; Corn salsa or black beans; Lime wedges and hot sauce. Choose one or two based on how substantial you want the meal to be.