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The Ultimate Copycat Taco Bell Mexican Pizza: Crispy, Cheesy, Homemade Perfection

Close-up of a layered slice of mexican pizza with melted cheese, seasoned beef, tomatoes, and green onions.

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Recreate the iconic fast-food favorite at home. This recipe delivers crispy tortillas layered with seasoned ground beef, refried beans, zesty sauce, and plenty of melted cheese. It is an easy weeknight dinner that satisfies your craving for this comfort food delight.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups ground beef (80/20 recommended)
  • 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon water
  • 1 (16 ounce) can refried beans, warmed
  • 8 small flour tortillas (about 6-inch size)
  • 1 cup vegetable oil, for frying (or cooking spray for baking)
  • 1 cup enchilada sauce
  • 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
  • 1 medium tomato, diced
  • 1/2 cup sliced black olives (optional)
  • 1/4 cup sliced green onions

Instructions

  1. Prepare the beef: Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain off any excess fat. Stir in the taco seasoning and water. Simmer for 5 minutes until the liquid is absorbed. Set aside.
  2. Prepare the tortillas: You have two options for crisping. For frying, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry tortillas one at a time for 30-60 seconds per side until golden and crisp. Drain on paper towels. For baking, lightly spray tortillas with cooking spray and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until crisp.
  3. Assemble the first layer: Place one crispy tortilla on a baking sheet. Spread half of the warmed refried beans evenly over the tortilla. Top the beans with half of the seasoned ground beef. Drizzle with half of the enchilada sauce and sprinkle with half of the cheese blend.
  4. Assemble the second layer: Carefully place a second crispy tortilla on top of the first layer. Spread the remaining refried beans, ground beef, enchilada sauce, and cheese blend over the second tortilla.
  5. Bake: Bake the assembled Mexican pizzas at 375°F (190°C) for 8-12 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
  6. Top and serve: Remove from the oven. Immediately top with diced tomatoes, sliced black olives (if using), and sliced green onions. Slice into wedges and serve hot.

Notes

  • To make this a quick taco night meal, use pre-cooked ground beef or pre-made taco meat.
  • If you prefer a baked version to avoid frying, lightly spray both sides of the tortillas with cooking spray before baking until crisp.
  • For an extra layer of flavor, mix 1/4 cup of water with the enchilada sauce before drizzling.

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