Copycat Taco Bell Mexican Pizza

Craving the famous Taco Bell Mexican Pizza? This easy, copycat recipe delivers the same delicious flavors with simple ingredients you can find at home. Made with crispy tortillas, seasoned ground beef, refried beans, and a blend of melted cheeses, this homemade Mexican pizza is topped with enchilada sauce and fresh tomatoes for an authentic taste. Perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or anytime you’re in the mood for a budget-friendly, family-approved meal. Learn how to recreate this fast-food favorite step-by-step, with tips for customization and FAQs to answer all your questions!

Ingredients

For the Pizza:

• 8 (6-inch) tortillas
• 1/2 lb. ground beef (80% or 85% lean)
• 1/4 cup old-fashioned oats
• 1 large tomato, diced
• 3/4 cup refried beans (see notes)

Beef Seasoning:

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Enchilada Sauce:

• 1/2 cup enchilada sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon juice from diced green chilies

Cheese Blend:

• 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup Monterey Jack cheese, grated

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the Beef:
   In a medium pan, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess grease.
3. Season the Beef:
   Add the oats and all the beef seasonings (except cornstarch) to the pan with the beef. Stir to combine and let simmer until the water reduces by half, about 5 minutes. Mix in the cornstarch and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Assemble the Pizzas:
   Spread refried beans evenly over 4 tortillas. Top each with the cooked beef mixture, then place another tortilla on top to form the base of your pizzas.
5. Add Sauce and Toppings:
   Mix the enchilada sauce, sugar, onion powder, and green chili juice. Spread the sauce over the top tortilla of each pizza. Add diced tomatoes and sprinkle generously with the cheese blend.
6. Bake:
   Transfer the pizzas to the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve:
   Remove from the oven, slice, and serve. Enjoy your homemade Mexican Pizza!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast & Easy: Perfect for weeknight dinners when you’re craving something quick and satisfying.
• Customizable: Adjust toppings, sauces, and seasonings to suit your taste.
• Budget-Friendly: A restaurant-quality meal made with affordable pantry staples.
• Kid-Approved: A fun and delicious meal the whole family will love!

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Tips

• Crispier Tortillas: Lightly toast the tortillas before assembling for added crunch.
• Layer Neatly: Spread the beans and beef mixture evenly to avoid messy layers.
• Use Fresh Cheese: Grate your cheese from a block for better melting and flavor.
• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Swap: Use ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat alternative.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute regular tortillas with gluten-free tortillas.
• Spice It Up: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the enchilada sauce.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the beef with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms.

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FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the beef mixture and refried beans in advance. Assemble and bake the pizzas when ready to serve.

What type of enchilada sauce should I use?
Mild, medium, or spicy enchilada sauce all work well. Choose based on your heat preference.

Can I freeze these pizzas?
It’s best to freeze the beef and beans separately. Assemble and bake the pizzas fresh for the best texture.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh side salad.
• Pair with guacamole, sour cream, or pico de gallo for dipping.
• Add a refreshing margarita or an agua fresca for a complete meal.

Enjoy the delicious taste of Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza from the comfort of your own kitchen!