Easy Taco Bell Mexican Pizza Recipe At Home
Taco bell mexican pizza recipe: Recreate this iconic dish at home! Layers of crispy tortillas, seasoned ground beef, and melted cheese offer a fiesta in every bite.
Equipment
- The following kitchen tools are recommended for preparing the "taco bell mexican pizza recipe":
- Large skillet
- Small Bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Paper towel-lined plate
- Baking sheet
- Oven
- Pizza cutter or knife
Ingredients
- 2 large flour tortillas (burrito size)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- cup water
- 1 (15 ounce) can refried beans
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- teaspoon garlic powder
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Optional toppings: sour cream, diced tomatoes, green onions, black olives
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef: Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease. Add the taco seasoning packet and water. Stir well to combine. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the tomato sauce, chili powder, and garlic powder. Stir until well combined. This creates a zesty pizza sauce.
- Step 3: Crisp the Tortillas: Heat about inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully place one tortilla in the hot oil and fry for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the tortilla from the skillet and drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Repeat with the second tortilla. Alternatively, bake the tortillas at 375F (190C) for 5-7 minutes per side for a healthier option.
- Step 4: Assemble the Mexican Pizzas: Spread a thin layer of the seasoned tomato sauce over each crispy tortilla. Top with a layer of refried beans, followed by the seasoned ground beef. Sprinkle a generous amount of the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese blend over the beef.
- Step 5: Melt the Cheese: Place the assembled pizzas on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350F (175C) for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Alternatively, broil for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Step 6: Garnish and Serve: Remove the pizzas from the oven and let them cool slightly. Add any desired toppings, such as sour cream, diced tomatoes, green onions, or black olives. Cut each pizza into wedges and serve immediately. Optional Tips: For a spicier pizza, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the tomato sauce or use a spicier taco seasoning. For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with crumbled vegetarian burger or seasoned black beans. You can also add a layer of guacamole or avocado slices for added flavor and creaminess.
Notes
Variations
The “taco bell mexican pizza recipe” lends itself to a multitude of variations catering to individual preferences, dietary needs, and regional influences:
- Ingredient Swaps: Ground turkey or shredded chicken can replace ground beef for a leaner protein source. Vegetarian options include seasoned black beans, lentils, or crumbled plant-based meat substitutes.
- Regional Twists: Incorporating regional flavors can elevate the dish. For example, adding a layer of guacamole and pico de gallo creates a California-inspired twist. Using a spicy chipotle sauce instead of mild tomato sauce introduces smoky heat.
- Dietary Adjustments: Gluten-free tortillas enable individuals with gluten sensitivities to enjoy the dish. Dairy-free cheese alternatives cater to those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. Baking the tortillas instead of frying reduces the overall fat content.
Serving Suggestions
The “taco bell mexican pizza recipe” is versatile and can be served in various settings:
- It is ideal as a casual weeknight dinner or a fun weekend snack.
- It can be cut into smaller wedges and served as appetizers for parties or gatherings.
- Pairing it with a side of sour cream, salsa, or guacamole enhances the overall dining experience.
- A refreshing Mexican soda or a light beer complements the flavors of the dish.
Storage Tips
Proper storage ensures the “taco bell mexican pizza recipe” retains its quality:
- Leftover pizza should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- It is best consumed within 2-3 days to maintain optimal freshness and flavor.
- Reheating can be done in a preheated oven at 350F (175C) for 5-10 minutes or until heated through. A microwave can also be used, but the tortilla may become less crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Question 1: Can the tortillas be air-fried instead of fried in oil?The tortillas can be air-fried at 375F (190C) for approximately 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy.
- Question 2: Can the pizza be assembled ahead of time and baked later?Yes, the pizza can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a few hours before baking. Add the cheese just before baking to prevent it from drying out.
- Question 3: What type of cheese blend is best for this recipe?A combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack provides a good balance of flavor and meltability. Other options include Colby Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend.