Cooking method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the taco seasoning and water, then simmer according to the package instructions.
- In a separate bowl, warm the refried beans until they’re nice and hot.
- In a frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Fry each tortilla one at a time until they are lightly golden and crisp. Drain them on paper towels afterward to remove excess oil.
- Start assembling your pizzas: place a fried tortilla on a baking sheet. Spread a layer of refried beans, then add the seasoned beef, enchilada sauce, and a sprinkle of cheese. Top with another tortilla, and repeat the layering process.
- Finish with a final generous layer of cheese on top of the last tortilla.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling beautifully.
- When done, take it out of the oven and finish with diced tomatoes and optional garnishes like sour cream, sliced olives, and green onions.
- Slice into wedges and serve warm, enjoying the vibrant layers!
Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to serving Taco Bell Mexican Pizza Copycat, the sky’s the limit! Consider pairing it with a crisp green salad to balance the richness of the pizza, or serve it alongside some homemade guacamole and tortilla chips for a full fiesta effect. For extra fun, turn it into a taco bar where guests can top their slices with additional garnishes.
How to store
To keep your leftovers fresh, store any remaining pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. If you want to enjoy this delightful dish later, you can freeze individual slices. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, and they’ll be ready for a future craving!
Helpful cooking tips
- Consider using a non-stick frying pan for crisping the tortillas to minimize the amount of oil needed.
- For an extra flavor punch, mix some hot sauce into the ground beef while it’s cooking.
- To make layered assembly easier, position your ingredients in a row as you prepare the pizzas.
Creative twists
There are numerous variations to elevate your Taco Bell Mexican Pizza Copycat. Swap out the ground beef for chicken or turkey for a lighter option, or go vegetarian with grilled vegetables or lentils. You could also change the cheese to pepper jack for extra spice or go fully loaded with jalapeños for those who love heat!
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
From start to finish, you can expect a prep and cooking time of about 30-40 minutes, making it a quick meal option.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with black beans or sautéed vegetables for a satisfying vegetarian version.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Keep any leftover slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap and freeze individual portions.
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
Yes, corn tortillas can be used, but keep in mind that they may break more easily than flour tortillas during frying and layering.
By following this guide, you’ll create a version of Taco Bell Mexican Pizza that not only satisfies cravings but is also fun to make with loved ones. Enjoy your kitchen adventure!
