The delightful crunch of a golden tortilla paired with layers of savory beef and melty cheese is a weeknight win I never knew I needed! After craving Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza but wishing to steer clear of fast food, I decided to take matters into my own hands. This recipe for Beef Enchilada Pizzas transformed my kitchen into a fiesta of flavors. Picture a satisfying blend of spicy taco seasoning mingling with creamy refried beans, all topped with a delicious enchilada sauce that’s guaranteed to awaken your taste buds.
What makes this dish truly special is its incredible versatility—it’s perfect for a quick dinner or a fun gathering with friends. This meal not only captures the essence of comfort food but also brings everyone together around the table. So grab your tortillas and let’s create a masterpiece that’s quicker and tastier than the drive-thru could ever offer!
Why love Taco Bell Mexican Pizza at home?
Satisfying crunch: Each bite of this pizza delivers a delightful snap, thanks to the perfectly baked tortillas.
Filling and flavorful: The savory combination of beef, enchilada sauce, and beans ensures no one leaves the table hungry.
Quick prep time: With just a few steps and only 30 minutes, you have a homemade dinner ready to impress.
Family-friendly dish: Perfect for any gathering, this recipe appeals to both kids and adults alike.
Versatile toppings: Customize your own with fresh vegetables, sour cream, or extra cheese for a personalized feast!
This recipe makes your dinner feel special without the fast food compromise. Dive into the world of homemade goodness and enjoy every bite!
Taco Bell Mexican Pizza Ingredients
• Get ready to create your own delicious version of Taco Bell’s Mexican pizza right at home!
For the Toppings
- Ground beef – This adds a hearty flavor that perfectly complements the tortillas.
- Taco seasoning – A key ingredient that spices up the beef, giving it that classic taco flavor.
- Refried beans – These provide a creamy layer that elevates the texture and taste.
- Red enchilada sauce – Adds a zesty kick and depth of flavor to the dish.
- Red salsa – Incorporate for an extra layer of freshness and a hint of spice.
- Shredded Mexican cheese blend – Melts beautifully on top, binding all the flavors together.
For the Tortillas
- Flour tortillas – The canvas for your pizzas, opt for taco-sized for perfect portions.
- Spray oil – Keeps the tortillas crispy and golden, enhancing the texture.
For the Garnish
- Tomato – Freshly diced for a vibrant touch that brightens up your savory pizza.
With these ingredients, you’re set to make a scrumptious Taco Bell Mexican Pizza that will become a family favorite!
How to Make Taco Bell Mexican Pizza
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Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350º F. Lightly spray both sides of your tortillas with spray oil, sprinkle them with salt, and prick them with a fork to prevent bubbling. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes.
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Flip and Brown: After the first 10 minutes, carefully flip the tortillas over and bake for an additional 3-5 minutes, until they are golden brown and crisp. Remove them from the oven and set aside to cool.
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Increase Temperature: Raise the oven temperature to 400°F to prepare for baking the assembled pizzas.
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Mix Sauces: In a small bowl, stir together the red enchilada sauce and salsa, setting it aside for later layers of flavor.
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Cook Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown and crumble the ground beef. Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef, add the water, and stir well. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until thickened.
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Heat Refried Beans: While the beef cooks, heat the refried beans in a microwave-safe bowl for easier spreading. Once heated, slather a generous layer of refried beans on each tortilla, followed by the seasoned ground beef.
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Stack and Sauce: Place another tortilla on top of each, then generously apply about two tablespoons of the enchilada sauce mixture on top. Sprinkle a handful of shredded cheese on top of the sauce, then repeat this layering process with the remaining tortillas.
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Bake Pizzas: Place your stacked pizzas on a large nonstick baking sheet and bake for about 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly. Serve with your favorite garnishes.
Optional: Top with fresh cilantro or sliced jalapeños for a delightful kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Taco Bell Mexican Pizza
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Crispy Tortillas: Ensure you don’t skip the pricking step—this prevents bubbling and helps achieve that perfect, crisp texture.
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Seasoning Balance: Taste your ground beef mixture as it simmers; you may want to adjust the taco seasoning to suit your spice preference—don’t be afraid to add a pinch more!
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Layer Generously: When spreading the refried beans, don’t skimp! A generous layer enhances flavor and creaminess, making each bite heavenly.
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Layering Order: To prevent soggy pizzas, always place the tortillas first and then layer with beans and beef before topping with enchilada sauce; it keeps them crispy.
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Topping Variety: Feel free to customize your Taco Bell Mexican Pizza with your favorite toppings—sour cream or avocado work wonderfully for extra creaminess!
Taco Bell Mexican Pizza Variations
Get ready to put your personal spin on this delicious treat!
- Gluten-Free: Swap out flour tortillas with gluten-free tortillas to make this pizza suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or sliced green chilies to the beef mixture for a delightful heat that builds with every bite.
- Vegetarian: Substitute the beef with sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or a can of black beans for a hearty, meatless option.
- Cheesy Delight: Use a combination of pepper jack and mozzarella cheese to amp up the creaminess and add a spicy twist.
- Extra Crunch: Top your pizzas with crushed tortilla chips after baking for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the melted cheese.
- BBQ Flavor: Swap out the enchilada sauce for your favorite BBQ sauce for a fun twist that brings a new sweetness to the dish.
- Creamy Avocado: Drizzle sliced avocado or a dollop of guacamole on right before serving to elevate the creaminess and add freshness.
- Breakfast Style: Add scrambled eggs and crumbled chorizo on top for a hearty breakfast version that’s perfect for brunch gatherings.
These variations invite you to explore flavors and textures while creating a home-cooked celebration!
How to Store and Freeze Taco Bell Mexican Pizza
Fridge: Store any leftover Beef Enchilada Pizzas in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh while retaining their delicious flavors.
Freezer: You can freeze the assembled but unbaked pizzas. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 2 months, preserving their irresistible taste.
Reheating: To enjoy your leftovers, reheat individual slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to regain that crispy texture.
Serving: Always serve the Beef Enchilada Pizzas hot for the best experience, adding fresh toppings just before eating. Enjoy this delightful twist on a beloved fast food classic!
Make Ahead Options
These Beef Enchilada Pizzas are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the meat mixture with taco seasoning and refrigerate it for up to 3 days, ensuring it’s ready to use when hunger strikes. Additionally, you can bake the tortillas ahead of time and store them in an airtight container overnight. To prevent the tortillas from getting soggy, layer parchment paper between them. When you’re ready to enjoy your pizzas, simply slather on the refried beans, layer your meat and cheese, and bake them at 400°F for about 8-10 minutes until everything is heated through and the cheese is bubbly. This way, you’ll have delicious Taco Bell Mexican Pizzas ready with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Beef Enchilada Pizzas?
To create a delightful meal experience, consider pairing these flavorful pizzas with sides that enhance their savory goodness.
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Mexican Street Corn: This creamy and tangy dish brings a burst of flavor, balancing the spice from the enchilada pizzas with sweet corn and fresh toppings. The kernels offer a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft and cheesy pizzas.
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Guacamole: This creamy avocado dip not only adds a refreshing element but also enhances the overall meal by providing a rich and buttery texture that complements the spices perfectly.
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Chips and Salsa: The classic combination of crispy tortilla chips alongside a zesty salsa provides a fun appetizer that warms up the taste buds, making it a perfect starter before diving into the main course.
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Mexican Rice: Fluffy and seasoned rice acts as a wonderful base for the meal, soaking up any extra sauce and adding a satisfying, filling element to the table. Its mild flavor allows the enchilada pizzas to shine.
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Black Bean Salad: A colorful salad featuring black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and a lime dressing brings in freshness and additional texture. It not only complements the pizzazz of the pizzas but also adds a bright note to the meal.
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Pineapple Agua Fresca: This refreshing drink adds a sweet and tropical flair to your dinner, balancing the rich flavors of the pizzas. It’s the perfect thirst-quencher that everyone will love.
Beef Enchilada Pizzas Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best ground beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing ground beef, look for 80% lean to 20% fat for the best flavor and texture. Check the color—fresh ground beef should be bright red. If you notice any dark spots or an off smell, it’s best to avoid it.
What’s the best way to store leftover Beef Enchilada Pizzas?
Very simple! Place any leftover slices in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes for that delightful crunch.
Can I freeze unbaked Beef Enchilada Pizzas?
Absolutely! To freeze, layer the pizzas as directed but do not bake them. Wrap each assembled pizza tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, remove the wrapping and bake straight from the freezer at 400°F, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
What if my tortillas are too soft and won’t hold up?
No worries! If your tortillas are too soft, try toasting them in the oven, as mentioned in step one, until they’re crispy. This helps them hold layers better. Additionally, ensuring you don’t overload them with toppings can help maintain their structure.
Are these Beef Enchilada Pizzas safe for kids and pets?
Definitely! Just make sure to adjust the seasoning according to your child’s taste, avoiding excess spice. As for pets, it’s best to keep the pizzas away from them due to the spices and cheese, which might not agree with their tummy. Always consult a vet with any concerns about your pet’s diet.
Delicious Taco Bell Mexican Pizza at Home in Just 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350º F. Lightly spray both sides of your tortillas with spray oil, sprinkle them with salt, and prick them with a fork to prevent bubbling. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes.
- After the first 10 minutes, carefully flip the tortillas over and bake for an additional 3-5 minutes, until they are golden brown and crisp. Remove them from the oven and set aside to cool.
- Raise the oven temperature to 400°F to prepare for baking the assembled pizzas.
- In a small bowl, stir together the red enchilada sauce and salsa, setting it aside for later layers of flavor.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown and crumble the ground beef. Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef, add the water, and stir well. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until thickened.
- While the beef cooks, heat the refried beans in a microwave-safe bowl for easier spreading. Once heated, slather a generous layer of refried beans on each tortilla, followed by the seasoned ground beef.
- Place another tortilla on top of each, then generously apply about two tablespoons of the enchilada sauce mixture on top. Sprinkle a handful of shredded cheese on top of the sauce, then repeat this layering process with the remaining tortillas.
- Place your stacked pizzas on a large nonstick baking sheet and bake for about 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly. Serve with your favorite garnishes.