Few fast-food items have sparked as much nostalgia and fan devotion as Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza. With its crispy tortilla layers, seasoned beef, creamy refried beans, zesty enchilada sauce, and melted cheese, it’s no wonder this Tex-Mex favorite has a loyal following.
While the original version was briefly discontinued, fans quickly demanded its return, proving just how beloved this dish is. Now, you don’t have to wait in line at the drive-thru—you can make an even better version at home with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
In this article, we’ll explore the history of Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza, why this homemade version is a game-changer, creative variations to try, tips for making the perfect crispy tortilla, meal prep ideas, frequently asked questions, and why this dish is a must-try for any Taco Bell fan or Tex-Mex lover.
A Brief History of Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza
Taco Bell introduced the Mexican Pizza in the late 1980s, aiming to combine the flavors of tacos with the familiarity of a pizza. It quickly became a favorite, featuring a crunchy tortilla base, flavorful meat, and a delicious cheese topping, all baked to perfection.
Despite its popularity, Taco Bell made the controversial decision to remove Mexican Pizza from the menu in 2020, citing streamlining efforts and sustainability goals. However, fans weren’t having it—an online petition gathered over 200,000 signatures demanding its return. The outcry was so strong that Taco Bell brought it back in 2022, proving that some classics should never be retired.
This homemade version not only pays tribute to the original but elevates it with fresher ingredients, a more customizable approach, and the freedom to make as many as you want—without worrying about limited availability.
Ingredients:
For the Tortillas & Layers:
- 8 (6-inch) tortillas
For the Beef Filling:
- ½ lb. ground beef (80 or 85% lean)
- ¼ cup old-fashioned oats
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Beef Seasoning:
- ½ teaspoon garlic salt
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1½ teaspoons chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cocoa powder
- ¼ cup water
For the Enchilada Sauce:
- ½ cup enchilada sauce
- ½ teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon juice from diced green chilies
Cheese & Toppings:
- ½ cup grated cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 large tomato, diced
Directions:
- Preheat Oven: Set to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the Beef: Brown ground beef in a skillet, drain excess grease, and stir in oats and seasonings. Simmer with ¼ cup water, then mix in cornstarch until thickened.
- Assemble the Tortillas: Spread refried beans on four tortillas, top with beef mixture, and sandwich with another tortilla.
- Prepare the Enchilada Sauce: Mix enchilada sauce with sugar, onion powder, and chili juice.
- Build the Mexican Pizzas: Spread enchilada sauce over the top tortilla, sprinkle diced tomatoes, and top with cheese blend.
- Bake: Place on a baking sheet and bake for 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Serve & Enjoy: Let cool slightly, slice into quarters, and serve warm.
Nutritional Info (Per Serving – Approximate):
- Calories: ~350
- Total Fat: ~18g
- Saturated Fat: ~8g
- Cholesterol: ~65mg
- Sodium: ~780mg
- Carbohydrates: ~26g
- Dietary Fiber: ~4g
- Sugars: ~4g
- Protein: ~18g
Why This Copycat Mexican Pizza Is a Game-Changer
Homemade Mexican Pizza isn’t just about recreating a fast-food favorite—it’s about taking it to the next level. Here’s why you’ll love making it at home:
1. Crispier, Fluffier Tortillas
Unlike store-bought versions that can get soggy, this recipe lets you control how crispy or soft you want your tortillas. By baking, pan-frying, or air-frying them, you can achieve the perfect crunch every time.
2. More Flavorful, Fresh Ingredients
Fast food is convenient, but it often relies on preservatives and lower-quality ingredients. Making Mexican Pizza from scratch allows you to use fresh ground beef, homemade taco seasoning, and high-quality cheese for an even more delicious outcome.
3. Customizable to Your Taste
- Want extra spicy? Add jalapeños or hot sauce.
- Prefer vegetarian? Swap the meat for black beans or plant-based alternatives.
- Craving a different cheese blend? Use pepper jack, queso fresco, or cheddar.
4. Perfect for Meal Prep & Leftovers
Mexican Pizza is easy to make ahead and store, so you can prep a batch for the week and reheat them in minutes for a quick lunch or dinner.
5. More Affordable Than Takeout
For the price of one fast-food meal, you can make multiple servings at home, feeding your family for a fraction of the cost.
Creative Variations of the Mexican Pizza
One of the best things about making this dish at home is the ability to experiment with flavors. Here are some fun ways to customize your Mexican Pizza:
1. The Spicy Inferno Mexican Pizza
- Add sliced jalapeños between the layers.
- Use a spicy enchilada sauce or mix sriracha into the refried beans.
- Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes on top for an extra kick.
2. The Vegetarian Mexican Pizza
- Swap the ground beef for black beans, lentils, or a plant-based meat alternative.
- Load up on grilled peppers, onions, and mushrooms for extra texture.
- Use vegan cheese and dairy-free sour cream for a fully plant-based meal.
3. The BBQ Chicken Mexican Pizza
- Replace ground beef with shredded BBQ chicken.
- Use BBQ sauce instead of enchilada sauce for a smoky-sweet twist.
- Add red onions and cilantro for fresh contrast.
4. The Ultimate Loaded Mexican Pizza
- Double the layers by adding a third tortilla in the middle.
- Add queso or nacho cheese sauce between the layers.
- Top with fresh guacamole, diced avocado, or sour cream after baking.
5. The Low-Carb/Keto Mexican Pizza
- Swap tortillas for low-carb alternatives or cheese crisps.
- Use seasoned ground turkey instead of beef for a leaner option.
- Top with avocado slices instead of beans for a keto-friendly meal.
Pro Tips for the Crispiest Mexican Pizza
A key element of this dish is the crunchy tortilla base. Here’s how to achieve restaurant-quality crispiness at home:
1. Lightly Fry the Tortillas Before Assembling
Frying your tortillas in a thin layer of oil for 30–45 seconds per side creates a golden, crispy base.
2. Bake or Air-Fry for a Healthier Option
If you want to avoid frying, bake the tortillas at 375°F for 5–7 minutes or air-fry them for 3–4 minutes until golden brown.
3. Don’t Overload with Sauce
Using too much enchilada sauce can make the tortillas soggy. A light spread is all you need.
4. Layer the Cheese Correctly
Sprinkling cheese both between and on top of the tortillas helps seal in the filling and creates that perfect cheesy melt.
FAQs About Homemade Mexican Pizza
1. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover Mexican Pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for the crispiest results.
2. Can I freeze Mexican Pizza?
Yes! Assemble the pizzas without baking, wrap them tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, bake directly from frozen, adding extra cheese before serving.
3. Can I make it gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free tortillas and ensure your enchilada sauce and seasonings are gluten-free.
4. What’s the best way to reheat Mexican Pizza?
For the crispiest texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or in an air fryer at 375°F for 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the tortillas soggy.
5. Can I use store-bought taco seasoning?
Yes! But if you want more control over flavor and sodium levels, making homemade taco seasoning is an easy alternative.
Conclusion: Why You Should Try This Homemade Mexican Pizza
Whether you’re a longtime Taco Bell fan or just discovering Mexican Pizza for the first time, this homemade version is a must-try. It’s easy to make, packed with bold flavors, and completely customizable to suit any dietary preference.
With its perfectly crisp tortillas, savory beef (or meat-free alternatives), tangy sauce, and melted cheese, this dish combines the best of tacos and pizza in one bite. Plus, it’s a fun and interactive meal that’s great for families, game nights, or simply satisfying a craving.
So, next time you’re thinking of hitting the drive-thru, skip the line and make your own Mexican Pizza at home. Once you try this homemade version, you may never go back to the fast-food version again!
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Quick Copycat Taco Bell Mexican Pizza: Cozy, Cheesy Recipe You’ll Love
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 Mexican pizzas 1x
Description
Bring the beloved Taco Bell Mexican Pizza right into your kitchen with this easy, homemade recipe! Crispy tortillas layered with seasoned beef, creamy refried beans, tangy enchilada sauce, and topped with a gooey three-cheese blend—it’s the ultimate Tex-Mex comfort food. Whether you’re recreating a fast-food favorite or looking for a fun twist on taco night, this dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
Ingredients
For the Tortillas and Layers:
- 8 (6-inch) tortillas
For the Beef Filling:
- ½ pound ground beef (80 or 85% lean)
- ¼ cup old-fashioned oats
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Beef Seasoning:
- ½ teaspoon garlic salt
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1½ teaspoons chili powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cocoa powder
- ¼ cup water
For the Enchilada Sauce:
- ½ cup enchilada sauce
- ½ teaspoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon juice from diced green chilies
Cheese and Toppings:
- ½ cup grated cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 large tomato, diced
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the Ground Beef
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.
- Add the oats and all the beef seasoning ingredients (except the cornstarch). Stir to combine.
- Add ¼ cup of water and simmer until the liquid has reduced by half, about 5 minutes.
- Mix in the cornstarch and cook for another 3–4 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Assemble the Tortilla Layers
- Spread a layer of refried beans evenly across four tortillas.
- Add a layer of the cooked beef mixture on top of the beans.
- Place another tortilla on top of each beef-and-bean layer to create a sandwich-style base.
- Prepare the Enchilada Sauce
- In a small bowl, combine the enchilada sauce, sugar, onion powder, and green chili juice. Mix well.
- Top the Mexican Pizzas
- Spread a thin layer of the enchilada sauce over the top of each tortilla stack.
- Sprinkle the diced tomatoes evenly across the top, followed by the three-cheese blend (cheddar, mozzarella, and Monterey Jack).
- Bake the Pizzas
- Place the assembled pizzas on a baking sheet and bake for 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Remove from the oven and let the pizzas cool slightly before slicing into quarters. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Crispier Tortillas: For a crunchier base, lightly fry the tortillas in a skillet before assembling.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the beef with seasoned black beans or plant-based ground meat.
- Customizable Spice: Add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or extra chili powder for more heat.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for the crispiest results.
- Freezer Option: Assemble the pizzas without the enchilada sauce and cheese, then freeze for up to 2 months. Add the toppings before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
