Taco Bell Mexican Pizzas

Taco Bell removing the Mexican Pizza from their menu was devastating news for many fans of the fast food restaurant. The good news is, they are super easy to make right at home. This copycat tastes just like the fast-food favorite, with layers of crunchy tortilla, beans, seasoned beef, tangy sauce, and plenty of cheese. 

Ingredients

• For the Pizza:
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 packet taco seasoning mix
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 can (16 ounces) refried beans
  • 8 small flour tortillas
  • 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup sliced green onions
  • 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
  • Vegetable oil (for frying)
• For the Sauce:
  • 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meat Filling:
   • In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
   • Add the taco seasoning mix and water to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook until the mixture thickens. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Refried Beans:
   • In a small saucepan, heat the refried beans over low heat until warmed through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Fry the Tortillas:
   • In a large skillet, heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
   • Fry each tortilla until golden brown and crispy, about 1-2 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels and set aside.
4. Make the Sauce:
   • In a small saucepan, combine the tomato sauce, cumin, paprika, sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
   • Simmer over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat.
5. Assemble the Mexican Pizzas:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Place one fried tortilla on a baking sheet. Spread a layer of refried beans over the tortilla.
   • Top the beans with a layer of seasoned ground beef.
   • Place a second tortilla on top of the beef layer.
   • Spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce over the top tortilla.
   • Sprinkle with shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, green onions, and black olives (if using).
6. Bake the Mexican Pizzas:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your homemade Mexican Pizza hot and fresh out of the oven. Pair it with some sour cream, guacamole, or your favorite salsa for a complete and satisfying meal.

Here are some other great Taco Bell recipes you can make right from the comfort of your own home!