Introduction
Are you a fan of Taco Bell’s iconic Mexican Pizza but wish you could enjoy it from the comfort of your home? Look no further! This family-friendly copycat recipe brings the delicious flavors of the Taco Bell Mexican Pizza right to your kitchen. Packed with refried beans, taco-seasoned ground beef, and topped with a generous amount of cheese, sun-ripened tomatoes, and spicy jalapenos, this Tex-Mex delight will become a household favorite. With a few simple steps and easily accessible ingredients, you can recreate this beloved fast-food dish and enjoy it fresh and hot whenever the craving strikes.
Ingredients
- 12 six-inch corn tortillas
- Canola or vegetable oil (for frying)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons taco seasoning
- 3/4 cup water
- 1 can (16 ounces) refried beans
- 3/4 cup finely shredded cheddar cheese
- 3/4 cup finely shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 6 grape tomatoes, sliced
- 1 small jalapeno, sliced
- 1/3 cup sliced black olives
- 1 green onion, chopped
Instructions
Frying the Tortillas
- Heat Oil: In a Dutch oven or heavy skillet, heat 1/2 inch of oil to 350-375°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, the oil is ready when a drop of water crackles and pops in it.
- Fry Tortillas: Add one tortilla at a time and fry until crispy, about 1 minute, flipping halfway through. Remove to paper towels to drain. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
Preparing the Ground Beef
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Halfway through, add the chopped onion.
- Season the Beef: Once the beef is fully browned and the onions have softened, stir in the taco seasoning and water. Simmer for 10 minutes.
Assembling the Mexican Pizzas
- Spread Refried Beans: Spread refried beans over six of the fried tortillas.
- Add Beef: Equally divide the seasoned ground beef over the beans.
- First Layer of Cheese: Top with half of the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
- Top with Tortillas: Place another crispy tortilla on top of each prepared tortilla.
- Final Toppings: Place the tortillas on parchment paper-covered baking sheets. Top each pizza with the remaining cheese, sliced tomatoes, jalapeno, black olives, and green onions.
- Bake: Bake at 400°F for 7-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
Tips for Perfect Mexican Pizzas
Frying Tortillas
- Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is between 350-375°F for perfectly crispy tortillas. Too hot, and they will burn; too cool, and they will become greasy.
- Crispy Tortillas: Fry the tortillas until they are golden and crispy to hold up well under the toppings.
Preparing in Advance
- Pre-Fry Tortillas: You can fry the tortillas up to three hours in advance. Stack them with paper towels between each to prevent them from sticking together.
Choosing Cheese and Seasoning
- Cheese Blend: Feel free to use a Mexican cheese blend if you prefer. It can add extra flavor and melt beautifully.
- Taco Seasoning: Use your favorite taco seasoning. Brands like Spice Islands, available at Costco, are excellent choices.
Storing and Reheating
- Leftovers: Store leftover Mexican pizzas in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For best results, reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
Yes, you can use flour tortillas, but keep in mind they may not be as crispy as corn tortillas when fried.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make this recipe vegetarian, replace the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat substitute or increase the amount of refried beans.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, ensure the taco seasoning and refried beans are gluten-free, and use certified gluten-free corn tortillas.
What other toppings can I use?
Feel free to customize your Mexican pizzas with your favorite toppings such as diced avocado, sour cream, or salsa.
Can I prepare the ingredients ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ground beef and fry the tortillas ahead of time. Assemble and bake the pizzas when you’re ready to serve.
How long will the leftovers last?
Properly stored in the refrigerator, leftovers will last for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for the best results.
By following these steps and tips, you can enjoy a delicious and family-friendly copycat Taco Bell Mexican Pizza at home. This recipe is perfect for a fun dinner night or when you’re craving a taste of your favorite fast-food treat. Enjoy the combination of crispy tortillas, savory ground beef, creamy refried beans, and melty cheese, topped with fresh tomatoes and spicy jalapenos. Happy cooking!