Copycat Taco Bell Mexican Pizza: Recreate the Fast Food Classic at Home!
Your Homemade Version of Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza
Craving the familiar taste of Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza but want to enjoy it in the comfort of your own kitchen? Look no further! With this Copycat Taco Bell Mexican Pizza recipe, you can replicate the deliciousness of this fast food favorite right at home. Get ready to savor the crispy tortillas, seasoned beef, zesty sauce, and melted cheese in every bite. Let’s dive into creating your homemade Mexican Pizza adventure.
Ingredients:
For the Mexican Pizza:
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix (or use your own blend)
- 1 can (16 oz) refried beans
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 2 green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Pizza Sauce:
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Topping:
- Sliced black olives
- Sliced jalapeños
- Sour cream
- Salsa
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Taco Meat:
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess grease.
- Add the taco seasoning mix (or your own blend) and the amount of water specified on the seasoning packet. Simmer according to the seasoning instructions until the mixture thickens. Set aside.
2. Make the Pizza Sauce:
- In a small saucepan, combine the tomato sauce, chili powder, paprika, cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is warmed through. Set aside.
3. Heat the Refried Beans:
- In a separate saucepan, warm the refried beans over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the consistency is too thick, you can add a tablespoon or two of water to make it more spreadable. Set aside.
4. Assemble the Mexican Pizzas:
- Lay out four of the small flour tortillas.
- On each tortilla, spread a layer of refried beans.
- Top the beans with a spoonful of the seasoned taco meat.
- Place another tortilla on top to create a sandwich.
5. Fry the Mexican Pizzas:
- In a large skillet, add enough vegetable oil to coat the bottom and heat it over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully add one assembled Mexican pizza at a time. Fry until they are golden brown and crispy on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove the fried Mexican pizzas and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.
6. Sauce and Cheese:
- On each fried Mexican pizza, spread a generous spoonful of the pizza sauce.
- Sprinkle a mixture of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the sauce.
7. Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the sauced and cheesed Mexican pizzas on a baking sheet and bake for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the Mexican pizzas from the oven and sprinkle with chopped green onions, sliced black olives, and jalapeños if desired.
- Serve hot with sides of sour cream and salsa.
Tips and Variations:
Tips:
- To make this dish vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or sautéed vegetables.
- Customize the toppings to your liking. Add diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, or guacamole for an extra flavor burst.
Variations:
- Experiment with different types of tortillas, such as whole wheat or corn tortillas, for a unique twist.
- If you prefer a spicier Mexican pizza, you can add more chili powder or hot sauce to the pizza sauce.
Storage:
- Mexican pizzas are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat them in the oven or microwave for a quick and tasty meal.
Now, you can enjoy the taste of Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza whenever the craving strikes, all from the comfort of your own kitchen. Whether you’re making these for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun family meal, these homemade Mexican pizzas are sure to be a hit!
