Copycat Taco Bell Mexican Pizza: A Simple, Homemade Version

If you’ve ever craved Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza but didn’t want to leave the house—or just wanted to try making it yourself—you’re in the right place!

This recipe is your ticket to enjoying the same crispy, cheesy goodness at home, minus the drive-thru. It’s quick, easy, and customizable, so you can adjust it to fit your taste. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

For the crust:

• 4 flour tortillas (about 6 inches each)
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil (for frying, optional)

For the filling:

• 1/2 lb ground beef (or ground chicken or vegetarian protein)
• 1 can refried beans (15 oz)
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or use 1 tbsp chili powder, 1/2 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, and salt to taste)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a Mexican cheese blend)

For the toppings:

• 1/2 cup sour cream (or homemade Taco Bell-style pizza sauce)
• 1/2 cup salsa (optional for added flavor)
• 1 medium tomato, diced
• 2 green onions, sliced (optional)
• 1 small jalapeño, sliced (optional)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (for topping)

Equipment Needed

• A large skillet or frying pan
• A baking sheet or pizza pan
• A sharp knife and cutting board
• Spoon or spatula for spreading and assembling

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Crisp the Tortillas

Start by crisping up your tortillas. If you want that signature crunch like Taco Bell’s version, lightly fry the tortillas in a hot skillet with a little oil, about 1 minute per side, until golden brown and crisp.

Alternatively, you can bake them at 400°F for 5-6 minutes. Once crispy, set aside on paper towels to drain any excess oil.

2. Cook the Meat

In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks. Once browned, stir in the taco seasoning and a splash of water (about 1/4 cup) and simmer for 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined and heated. Follow the same steps if you’re using ground chicken or a vegetarian protein!

3. Assemble the Mexican Pizza

Now, it’s time to assemble! Take one of your crispy tortillas and spread a thin layer of refried beans over the top.

Add a generous layer of the seasoned meat (or protein) to the beans. Sprinkle with shredded cheese, then place a second tortilla on top, pressing down gently.

Repeat the process for the second layer of the pizza: another tortilla, followed by refried beans, seasoned meat, and cheese.

4. Bake the Pizza

Place the assembled pizza on a baking sheet or pizza pan. Bake it at 400°F for about 5-7 minutes, just long enough to melt the cheese and crisp up the edges of the tortillas. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn, especially if your tortillas are fried.

5. Add the Toppings

Once it’s out of the oven, it’s time to add the finishing touches. Spread sour cream (or your homemade pizza sauce) generously on top. Sprinkle with diced tomatoes, green onions, and jalapeños for extra flavor and a pop of color. Top with a handful of shredded cheese, and you’re done!

Tips and Tricks

• Customize the filling: Don’t be afraid to mix it up! Add some black beans, switch up the protein, or add a little guacamole for extra creaminess.
• Add more jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for a spicier version. You can also swap out the salsa for a spicier one.
• Making it vegetarian or vegan? Just replace the meat with a plant-based protein, and swap the cheese and sour cream for dairy-free alternatives.
• Low-carb option: Try using low-carb tortillas or lettuce wraps for a keto-friendly version.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your homemade Mexican pizza with a side of crispy tortilla chips, guacamole, or Mexican rice for a complete meal. If you have leftovers, store them in the fridge and reheat them in the oven for that same crispy texture!

Conclusion

There you have it! A simple, homemade version of Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza that’s just as delicious as the real thing (if not better!).

You can customize it to fit your taste, whether you like it spicy, cheesy, or topped with all the fixings.

Give it a try next time you crave that Taco Bell nostalgia but want to keep things cozy at home. Enjoy!