Taco Bell Mexican Pizza

If you’re a fan of Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza, you’re in for a treat! This homemade version is not only delicious but also allows you to customize it to your liking. With layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy refried beans, and melty cheese, all sandwiched between crispy tortillas, it’s a dish that brings comfort and joy. Let’s dive into the world of Taco Bell Mexican Pizza and recreate this fast-food favorite right in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Taco Bell Mexican Pizza is everything you love about the original but made from scratch with fresh ingredients. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, game day gatherings, or even just because you want to indulge in something satisfying. The combination of flavors and textures will have your taste buds dancing, and what’s more, you can adjust the toppings to suit your preferences. Plus, it’s a fun dish to make with family or friends, turning cooking into a delicious bonding experience.

What Goes In

To create this delightful Taco Bell Mexican Pizza, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 1/2 tablespoons masa harina
• 4 1/2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon seasoning salt
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
• 1/4 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon dried minced onion
• 1/2 teaspoon beef bouillon powder
• 1 1/3 pounds ground chuck
• Vegetable oil for frying
• 8-inch flour tortillas
• 14 ounces refried beans
• Taco meat
• 12 ounces shredded Mexican cheese blend (do not use extra-thick shreds like Tillamook)
• 4-6 tablespoons Taco Bell Sauce or use bottled
• 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes

Equipment & Tools

Having the right tools makes the cooking process smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Large skillet – for cooking the ground beef and refried beans.
• Mixing bowl – to combine the spices and meat.
• Frying pan – to fry the tortillas until crispy.
• Spatula – for flipping and serving.
• Oven – for melting the cheese and warming the assembled pizza.

Build Taco Bell Mexican Pizza Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Taco Meat

In a large skillet, cook the ground chuck over medium heat. As the meat starts to brown, drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Season the Meat

In a mixing bowl, combine the masa harina, chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, seasoning salt, paprika, ground cumin, garlic salt, sugar, dried minced onion, and beef bouillon powder. Sprinkle this spice mixture over the cooked meat and stir well to ensure the meat is fully coated. Add a little water if needed for moisture, and let it simmer for a few minutes.

Step 3: Fry the Tortillas

In a frying pan, heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Fry each tortilla for about 30 seconds on each side until they are golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

Step 4: Assemble the Pizza

On one crispy tortilla, spread a layer of refried beans, followed by a generous portion of the seasoned taco meat. Sprinkle with shredded Mexican cheese and top with another crispy tortilla.

Step 5: Bake

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the assembled pizzas on a baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

Step 6: Add Toppings

Remove the pizzas from the oven and drizzle with Taco Bell Sauce. Top with chopped tomatoes and any additional toppings of your choice, such as jalapeños, cilantro, or sour cream.

Fresh Seasonal Changes

Mixing things up is easy with this Taco Bell Mexican Pizza recipe. Here are some ideas for seasonal changes:

• Spring: Add fresh avocado slices or a sprinkle of lime juice for a zesty touch.
• Summer: Incorporate grilled corn or black beans for a fresh twist.
• Fall: Try adding roasted butternut squash or pumpkin puree to the taco meat for a unique flavor.
• Winter: Use hearty toppings like sautéed kale or Brussels sprouts for a comforting addition.

Common Errors (and Fixes)

Even the best cooks make mistakes sometimes. Here are some common errors when making Taco Bell Mexican Pizza and how to fix them:

• Too soggy: If your tortillas become soggy, make sure to fry them properly until crispy. Avoid overloading with beans and toppings.
• Flavorless meat: Ensure you season the meat thoroughly with the spice mixture. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning if necessary.
• Burnt cheese: Keep an eye on the pizza as it bakes. Ovens can vary, so check after 8 minutes to prevent burning.
• Uneven layers: When assembling, spread the ingredients evenly to ensure every bite is flavorful.

Make-Ahead & Storage

This Taco Bell Mexican Pizza can be made ahead of time and stored for later enjoyment. Here’s how:

• Prepare the taco meat and refried beans ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Assemble the pizzas, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

Taco Bell Mexican Pizza FAQs

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or simply load up on your favorite veggies and beans for a hearty vegetarian version.

What if I don’t have masa harina?

If you can’t find masa harina, you can use regular flour or cornmeal as an alternative. Just be aware that it may alter the texture slightly.

Can I freeze the Taco Bell Mexican Pizza?

Yes! You can freeze the assembled, uncooked pizzas. Wrap them tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

The best way to reheat is to bake the leftover slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the cheese is melty again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the tortillas soggy.

If you’re looking for more healthy-inspired dishes that pack flavor without the guilt, consider trying these:

Time to Try It

Now that you have the inside scoop on how to make Taco Bell Mexican Pizza, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking! With its layers of flavor and customizable toppings, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your household. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy creating this iconic dish right in your own kitchen. You’ll impress family and friends alike with your homemade Taco Bell Mexican Pizza that’s just as good, if not better, than the original! Happy cooking!