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If you’re craving something that perfectly combines the fun of pizza with the bold, vibrant flavors of taco night, you absolutely have to try this Mexican Pizza Recipe. It’s a delightful twist on traditional pizza that layers crispy tortillas with savory refried beans, seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and vibrant toppings like tomatoes, olives, and green onions. Every bite bursts with rich, comforting Tex-Mex goodness that feels both familiar and exciting all at once. Whether you’re serving it for a casual family dinner or impressing friends at a get-together, this dish brings unbeatable flavor and a satisfying crunch that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Mexican Pizza Recipe lies in its simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, from the hearty, seasoned beef and creamy refried beans that create depth, to the crispy tortillas providing the perfect pizza crust base. Bright, fresh toppings and melty cheese bring it all together in a symphony of flavors and textures.
- 1 pound ground beef: Use fresh beef for rich flavor and perfect texture.
- 1 packet taco seasoning: Adds authentic Mexican-inspired spices effortlessly.
- 1/2 cup water: Helps thicken the seasoned beef mixture just right.
- 1 (16-ounce) can refried beans: Creamy and smooth, they serve as a flavor-packed layer between tortillas.
- 8 small flour tortillas: These act as the crispy pizza crust; brush with oil for perfect golden crunch.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese: Melts beautifully to bring cheesy, gooey indulgence to each slice.
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes: Adds fresh juiciness and a pop of color.
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives: Brings a salty contrast that complements the richness.
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions: Offers a mild bite and vibrant green hue to brighten the dish.
- 1/4 cup salsa or enchilada sauce: Provides a zesty, tangy layer that ties all the flavors together.
- Nonstick cooking spray or a little oil for brushing: Essential for crisping up those tortillas perfectly in the oven.
How to Make Mexican Pizza Recipe
Step 1: Cook and Season the Beef
Begin by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it apart as it cooks to achieve even crumbles. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat to keep the pizza from becoming greasy. Stir in the taco seasoning and water, then simmer for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens and the beef absorbs those bold, spicy flavors.
Step 2: Prepare the Refried Beans and Tortillas
While your beef simmers, warm the refried beans in a saucepan or microwave until they’re easy to spread. This creamy base layer adds a delicious richness that balances the spices in the beef. Next, lightly spray or brush both sides of each flour tortilla with oil and place them on a baking sheet. Bake in your preheated 400°F oven for 3 to 4 minutes per side until crisp and golden—this creates the perfect crunchy foundation for your Mexican pizza.
Step 3: Assemble the Pizza Layers
Take four of the crispy tortillas and spread a layer of warm refried beans over each one. Top each with a generous helping of your seasoned ground beef. Then, add a second tortilla on top to create a sandwich-style pizza. This double-layer technique is key for that satisfying bite and texture contrast.
Step 4: Add the Toppings and Bake
Slather salsa or enchilada sauce over the tops of the double-layered tortillas. Sprinkle shredded Mexican blend cheese evenly, then scatter diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, and chopped green onions on top. Slide everything back into the oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling beautifully.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Once out of the oven, allow the Mexican pizza to cool for a few minutes so it’s easier to slice without losing its layers. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice into quarters and serve warm for the best experience.
How to Serve Mexican Pizza Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Mexican pizza, consider topping with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of creamy avocado crema for extra richness. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or chopped jalapeños adds bright, fresh notes or a little heat, depending on what you love. These simple garnishes bring a finishing touch that enlivens each slice.
Side Dishes
Pairing this Mexican Pizza Recipe with classic sides like a crisp green salad, Mexican street corn (elote), or refried beans with rice makes for a complete and satisfying meal. Fresh guacamole and crunchy tortilla chips are always welcomed companions too, rounding out the meal with complementary textures and flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try making individual mini Mexican pizzas on small tortillas for a party platter. You can also layer all the components in a baking dish for a casserole-style Mexican pizza bake. Serving with colorful bowls of toppings on the side allows everyone to customize their slices, making your meal interactive and festive.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store your Mexican pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and the tortillas crisp, so you can enjoy a tasty second meal without losing any of that satisfying texture.
Freezing
Freezing cooked Mexican pizza is a great way to have a quick meal ready to go. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and then foil or place in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, place the pizza in a preheated 375°F oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until warmed through and the cheese bubbles again. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep that crispy tortilla texture intact; the oven does the job perfectly every time.
FAQs
Can I make this Mexican Pizza Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply skip the ground beef and either add more refried beans or use sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms. This swap keeps the dish hearty and flavorful for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.
What type of cheese works best for this Mexican pizza?
A shredded Mexican blend cheese is the ideal choice because it melts well and offers a balance of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and other cheeses. However, feel free to experiment with mozzarella or pepper jack for different flavors.
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
While you can use corn tortillas, keep in mind they tend to be less pliable and can break more easily when layered. Flour tortillas provide the crisp, sturdy base that’s perfect for this recipe, but if you prefer corn, be gentle when assembling.
How spicy is this Mexican Pizza Recipe?
The spice level primarily depends on the taco seasoning and salsa you use. You can adjust by choosing mild or hot seasoning and sauce to suit your taste buds perfectly. Adding jalapeños on top is an easy way to dial up the heat if desired.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely! This Mexican pizza combines familiar pizza textures with friendly Mexican flavors that kids often love. Just keep the spice mild, and you’ll have a fun meal that pleases little palates and adults alike.
Final Thoughts
This Mexican Pizza Recipe is truly a standout dish that brings joy with every bite. Its perfect blend of crispy tortillas, rich layers, melty cheese, and fresh toppings makes it a go-to recipe whenever you want something deliciously different but still comforting. Don’t hesitate to give it a try—you’ll discover a new family favorite that’s quick, easy, and bursting with flavor.
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Print
Mexican Pizza Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Description
This Mexican Pizza recipe features crispy flour tortillas layered with seasoned ground beef, refried beans, and a savory blend of toppings like tomatoes, olives, and green onions. Baked until golden and topped with melted Mexican blend cheese and salsa, it’s an easy, flavorful meal perfect for weeknights.
Ingredients
Meat and Seasoning
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
Base and Toppings
- 1 (16-ounce) can refried beans
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup salsa or enchilada sauce
Others
- Nonstick cooking spray or a little oil for brushing
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F to get it ready for crisping the tortillas and melting the cheese later on.
- Cook Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart until fully browned. Drain excess fat, then stir in the taco seasoning along with 1/2 cup water. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens and flavors meld.
- Warm Refried Beans: Heat the refried beans in a small saucepan or microwave until they are warm and spreadable, making them easier to layer on the tortillas.
- Crisp Tortillas: Lightly spray or brush both sides of each tortilla with oil. Place them on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 3–4 minutes per side until they turn crispy and golden. Remove and let cool slightly.
- Assemble Pizzas: Spread a layer of the warmed refried beans on four tortillas. Next, add a layer of the seasoned ground beef. Place another tortilla on top of each to form the pizza base.
- Add Toppings: Spread salsa or enchilada sauce over the top tortillas. Sprinkle evenly with shredded Mexican blend cheese, diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, and chopped green onions.
- Bake Final Pizzas: Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for 8–10 minutes until the cheese melts completely and bubbles up.
- Serve: Let the pizzas cool slightly for easier slicing. Cut into wedges and serve warm.
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, omit the beef and substitute with sautéed vegetables or additional refried beans.
- Add jalapeños or hot sauce if you prefer a spicier pizza.
