Get ready to enjoy Tex-Mex flavors at home with this Mexican pizza recipe. Making a homemade Mexican pizza is simple. It starts with a crispy tortilla, zesty ground beef, melted cheese, and fresh toppings. This mix creates a fiesta in every bite.
Whether you want a taco pizza, crispy tortilla pizza, or south of the border pizza, this recipe will help. It shows you how to make a delicious and authentic layered Mexican pie, Tex-Mex pizza, or fiesta pizza from scratch.
This Mexican flatbread recipe makes at least 8 spicy pizzas or nacho pizzas. It’s great for a family dinner or a Mexican-themed party. The instructions are easy to follow, and there are tips and substitutions to help you make the perfect Mexican pizza at home.
Key Takeaways
- Learn how to make a delicious homemade Mexican pizza with a crispy tortilla base, zesty ground beef, melted cheese, and fresh toppings.
- Discover easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions for assembling and baking the perfect Mexican pizza.
- Explore ingredient substitutions and variations to customize the recipe to your taste preferences.
- Get tips on how to achieve the perfect crispy crust and add delicious toppings to elevate the flavors.
- Learn how to store and reheat leftover Mexican pizza to enjoy it all week long.
Introduction
Homemade Mexican pizza is a tasty mix of Mexican and pizza flavors. It’s easy to make and brings the real taste of Tex-Mex to your kitchen. Start with a crispy tortilla, add refried beans, seasoned beef, and cheese, then top it with fresh pico de gallo or other colorful ingredients.
This way, you can make a delicious Mexican pizza that feels like a trip to Mexico. The Mexican pizza was first introduced by Taco Bell in 1985. It was called the “Pizzazz Pizza” and later renamed to “Mexican Pizza” in 1988. After being off the menu since 2020, over 170,000 people signed a petition to bring it back in 2022.
“Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza is one of their classic dishes and a fan favorite for a reason – it’s a delicious and satisfying fusion of Mexican and Italian flavors.”
If you love Taco Bell’s Mexican pizza or want to try something new, this recipe is perfect. It’s a great way to enjoy the mix of Mexican and Italian tastes at home. Get ready for a crispy, cheesy, and flavorful treat with every bite of your homemade Mexican pizza.
Ingredients for a Mexican Pizza Recipe
To make the perfect homemade Mexican pizza, you need the right ingredients. Start with tortillas or pizza dough. Then, add flavorful toppings to get that authentic Mexican taste.
Essential Ingredients
- 16 corn tortillas (6-inch) or pre-made pizza dough
- 2 cups of refried beans, warmed
- 1 pound of ground beef, seasoned with 1 tablespoon of taco seasoning
- 2 cups of enchilada sauce or taco sauce
- 8 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese
Optional Toppings for Extra Flavor
- Diced tomatoes
- Sliced black olives
- Chopped green onions
- Hot sauce, to taste
Substitutions for Dietary Preferences
Need to make the recipe fit your diet? Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles for a veggie option. Use gluten-free tortillas or a cauliflower crust for gluten-free. Choose dairy-free cheese for those with lactose intolerance or vegan diets.
By picking the right ingredients and making swaps, you can make a tasty Mexican pizza. It will be tailored to your taste and dietary needs.
How to Make the Perfect Mexican Pizza Recipe Step-by-Step
Making the ultimate Mexican pizza is a fun journey. Follow these simple steps to make a delicious dish at home.
Preparing the Pizza Base
Start by getting your pizza base ready. You can fry small flour tortillas until they’re crispy. Or, you can roll out and pre-bake a homemade or store-bought pizza dough. This base will be the foundation of your Mexican pizza.
Making the Refried Bean and Meat Mixture
Next, make the tasty refried bean and seasoned ground beef mix. This mix will be your pizza’s “sauce.” Cook the ground beef with taco seasoning, then add refried beans and a little water. This will make a creamy, savory spread.
Assembling and Baking the Mexican Pizza
Now, it’s time to put your Mexican pizza together. Spread the bean and beef mix on the pizza base. Add shredded Mexican cheese, diced tomatoes, and sliced black olives on top. Bake until the cheese melts and the crust gets crispy, about 18 minutes.
With these steps, you can make a tasty Mexican pizza at home. Enjoy the perfect mix of flavors and textures in every bite!
Tips and Tricks for the Best Mexican Pizza
To make a perfect homemade Mexican pizza, keep a few things in mind. First, choose the right crust. Small fajita-size flour tortillas or a thin, crispy pizza crust are best. They prevent a soggy bottom and support your toppings well.
Next, add fresh and crunchy toppings. Diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, and chopped green onions are great. They balance the savory refried beans and ground beef. Make sure the ground beef is fully cooked and fat is drained to avoid a greasy pizza.
Choosing the Right Tortilla or Pizza Crust
For the best Mexican pizza, use small fajita-size flour tortillas or a thin, crispy pizza crust. This ensures a perfect texture and prevents a soggy bottom.
Adding Fresh and Crunchy Toppings
To make a delicious Mexican pizza, mix savory refried beans and ground beef with fresh toppings. Diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, and chopped green onions add flavor and texture.
How to Prevent a Soggy Base
To avoid a soggy Mexican pizza, cook the ground beef well and drain excess fat. This keeps the base crisp and prevents it from becoming greasy or heavy.
“The key to a perfect Mexican pizza is all about balance – a crisp crust, savory toppings, and a touch of freshness to tie it all together.”
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fajita-size flour tortillas | 20 |
| Canned refried beans | 16 oz |
| Ground beef or shredded chicken | 1 lb |
| Taco seasoning packet | 1 |
| Oven temperature for preheating | 400°F (200°C) |
| Cooking time in the oven | 10 minutes |
Variations of the Mexican Pizza Recipe
The classic Mexican pizza uses seasoned ground beef. But, you can try many tasty variations. These include vegetarian, spicy, and breakfast versions, making something for everyone.
Vegetarian Mexican Pizza
For a meatless option, use plant-based crumbles or sautéed veggies like bell peppers and onions. Add your favorite toppings like sliced olives, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese. It’s a fulfilling and tasty vegetarian meal.
Spicy Mexican Pizza with Jalapeños
For a spicy twist, add sliced jalapeños or hot sauce. The mix of savory refried beans, seasoned meat, and jalapeño heat is amazing. It will excite your taste buds.
Breakfast Mexican Pizza with Eggs
Try a breakfast version with scrambled eggs, crumbled chorizo or bacon, and cheese. It’s a hearty, satisfying meal. Enjoy it for brunch or a quick dinner.
Check out these creative Mexican pizza variations. They cater to different tastes and diets. Whether you prefer vegetarian, spicy, or breakfast, these options will spice up your Mexican pizza game.
How to Serve and Enjoy Your Mexican Pizza
Mexican pizza is a delightful fusion dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. To enhance the Tex-Mex flavors, pair your homemade Mexican pizza with tasty side dishes and dips. These accompaniments will complement the flavors and make for a complete and satisfying Mexican-themed dinner.
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Mexican Pizza
- Spanish rice: A classic accompaniment that adds a savory and aromatic element to the meal.
- Refried beans: Creamy and flavorful, refried beans pair exceptionally well with the Mexican pizza.
- Fresh salad: A light and crisp salad with a zesty dressing can balance the heartiness of the pizza.
Dips and Sauces to Elevate the Flavor
To further enhance the Tex-Mex flavors, serve your Mexican pizza with a selection of delicious dips and sauces. Some popular options include:
- Guacamole: The creamy avocado dip adds a refreshing and cool contrast to the pizza.
- Salsa: A vibrant and flavorful salsa can provide a nice kick to the dish.
- Sour cream: The cool and tangy sour cream can balance the spicier elements of the pizza.
Serving Ideas for a Mexican-Themed Dinner
For a complete Mexican-themed dinner, consider pairing the Mexican pizza with other classic Mexican dishes. Some tasty options include:
- Chicken enchiladas: Rolled up tortillas filled with shredded chicken and smothered in a savory enchilada sauce.
- Tamales: Steamed masa dough filled with a variety of fillings, such as chicken, pork, or vegetables.
- Mexican-inspired corn salad: A refreshing salad featuring grilled or roasted corn, bell peppers, onions, and a tangy dressing.
By incorporating these side dishes, dips, and complementary Mexican-themed dishes, you can create a truly authentic and satisfying dining experience around your homemade Mexican pizza.
Storing and Reheating Leftover Mexican Pizza
Enjoy the delicious flavors of your homemade Mexican pizza even after the initial meal. Proper storage and reheating can help. These tips will keep the texture and taste just right.
How to Store in the Refrigerator
Leftover Mexican pizza can stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days. Wrap each slice or the whole pizza in foil or plastic wrap. This keeps it from drying out. Make sure it’s cool before you put it in the fridge to avoid moisture.
Best Reheating Methods to Keep the Pizza Crispy
To reheat and keep the crust crispy, place slices on a baking sheet. Bake in a 400°F oven for 5-10 minutes. Or, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, flipping to crisp the tortilla.
Freezing and Thawing Instructions
Freeze leftover pizza for up to 3 months. Cool it down, then wrap slices in foil or plastic wrap. Put them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Follow these tips to enjoy your homemade Mexican pizza long after the first meal. The right storage and reheating keep the crust crispy and toppings tasty. This way, you can fully enjoy your leftovers.
Nutritional Information for a Homemade Mexican Pizza Recipe
Enjoying a delicious Mexican pizza at home lets you control what goes into it. This way, you can make a healthier version than the Taco Bell one.
Caloric Breakdown
This homemade Mexican pizza has about 275 calories. It has 8 grams of fat, 31 grams of carbs, and 18 grams of protein. This is much less than the Taco Bell version, which has 400 calories and 15.3 grams of fat.
Healthier Ingredient Alternatives
To make it even better, use lean ground turkey or plant-based protein instead of beef. Choose low-fat cheese and add lots of fresh veggies as toppings. For example, using a brown rice tortilla can cut down on carbs by 40 calories per serving compared to a regular tortilla.
Portion Control Tips
- Serve the pizza with a side salad to balance the meal and keep portion sizes right.
- Divide the pizza into smaller slices to control portions and lower calorie intake.
| Ingredient | Calories | Carbohydrates |
|---|---|---|
| Brown Rice Tortilla | 130 | 24g |
| Standard Tortilla | 170 | 26g |
| Almond Flour Tortilla | 200 | 20g |
| Coconut Wrap | 70 | 6g |
| Paleo Wrap | 90 | 15g |
| Low Carb Tortilla | 60 | 7g |
| Cauliflower Tortilla | 120 | 25g |
“The homemade Mexican Pizza is 1000x better than the Taco Bell version.”
FAQ: Common Questions About Making a Mexican Pizza Recipe
Creating a delicious homemade Mexican pizza can raise a few questions. Let’s tackle some of the most common ones. This will help you make the perfect Mexican pizza every time.
Can I use store-bought pizza dough instead of tortillas?
Yes, you can use store-bought or homemade pizza dough instead of tortillas. Roll or stretch the dough to the right size and shape. Then, bake it until it’s lightly golden. After that, top and bake the pizza as usual.
What are some good topping combinations for Mexican pizza?
Mexican pizza is all about creativity with toppings. Classic choices include seasoned ground beef, refried beans, and shredded Mexican cheese blend. Don’t forget diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, sour cream, and chopped cilantro. You can also try grilled chicken, chorizo, or roasted veggies for a twist.
How can I make a gluten-free or low-carb version of the recipe?
For a gluten-free Mexican pizza, use gluten-free tortillas or a gluten-free crust. For a low-carb version, try cauliflower pizza crust or portobello mushroom caps. Use low-carb toppings like grilled chicken, roasted veggies, and shredded cheese.
Can I prepare the pizza ahead of time and reheat it later?
Yes, you can prepare the Mexican pizza ahead of time. Assemble the pizza but don’t bake it. Cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Then, bake it straight from the fridge when you’re ready. Leftover pizza can be reheated in the oven or microwave for a quick meal.
By answering these common questions, you’ll have all the info to make the perfect homemade Mexican pizza. It will be tailored to your preferences and dietary needs.
Conclusion
This homemade Mexican pizza recipe is a tasty and easy way to enjoy Tex-Mex flavors at home. Start with a crispy tortilla or pizza crust. Then, add refried beans, seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and fresh toppings.
Follow the step-by-step guide, try different variations, and learn how to store it. This recipe helps you make a delicious Mexican pizza that everyone will love. It’s perfect for those who want to make a Mexican Pizza like Taco Bell’s or a homemade version.
Get your ingredients ready, preheat your oven, and start making a Mexican pizza. It’s a journey to Mexico’s vibrant flavors. Enjoy your homemade Mexican pizza and the perfect mix of crispy, cheesy, and zesty in every bite.
FAQ
Can I use store-bought pizza dough instead of tortillas?
Yes, you can use store-bought pizza dough as a base. Roll it out thin and pre-bake it before adding toppings.
What are some good topping combinations for Mexican pizza?
Good toppings include diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, and chopped onions. Also, add fresh cilantro, black olives, and shredded cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack.
How can I make a gluten-free or low-carb version of the recipe?
For gluten-free, use a gluten-free pizza crust or cauliflower crust. For low-carb, choose a low-carb tortilla or cauliflower crust. Use plant-based protein instead of ground beef.
Can I prepare the pizza ahead of time and reheat it later?
Yes, you can prepare the Mexican pizza ahead of time. Let it cool, then slice and store in the fridge for 4 days or freezer for 3 months. Reheat in a 400°F oven for 5-10 minutes until crispy.