If you’ve ever dreamed of combining the zesty flavors of a taco with the comforting satisfaction of a pizza, then this Mexican Pizza Recipe is about to become your new go-to dinner. Layers of seasoned ground beef, creamy refried beans, bubbling melted cheese, and fresh toppings all baked between crispy tortillas create a dish that’s vibrant, filling, and utterly delicious. Whether you’re feeding a family or craving something fun for a weeknight meal, this recipe delivers authentic Tex-Mex flair with a homemade touch.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple, yet they play crucial roles in bringing this Mexican pizza to life. From the rich, savory ground beef to the colorful and fresh veggies, each element adds depth in flavor and texture.
- Ground beef (1 lb): Provides hearty, meaty flavor and protein that forms the base of the topping.
- Taco seasoning packet: Infuses the beef with the classic Mexican spices that give this dish its signature taste.
- Water (1/4 cup): Helps blend the seasoning into the beef and keep it moist.
- Refried beans (16 oz can): A creamy, savory layer that adds richness and binds the toppings together.
- Small flour tortillas (8): Acts like the crust, crisping up in the oven for a perfect crunchy base and top.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): Offers sharpness and melts beautifully for that cheesy goodness.
- Shredded Monterey Jack cheese (1 cup): Adds a mild, creamy texture complementing the cheddar.
- Salsa (1/2 cup): Brings brightness and a saucy tang to balance the richness.
- Sliced black olives (1/4 cup): Adds a briny, slightly salty pop that enhances every bite.
- Green onions (2, sliced): Freshens the dish with a mild onion crunch and vibrant color.
- Tomato (1 medium, diced): Adds juicy bursts and an essential fresh element.
- Vegetable oil (1 tbsp): Used to brush the tortillas so they crisp up perfectly in the oven.
How to Make Mexican Pizza Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Seasoned Beef
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and browning the ground beef until it’s cooked through. Drain any excess fat to keep it from becoming greasy. Then stir in the taco seasoning and water. Let this mixture simmer for about five minutes so the seasoning melds fully with the meat, creating that irresistible, flavorful base layer.
Step 2: Warm the Refried Beans
While the beef simmers, gently warm the refried beans in a small saucepan over low heat. This step ensures they’re spreadable and hot, which is key for the next layering step.
Step 3: Crisp the Tortillas
Lightly brush both sides of each flour tortilla with vegetable oil. Place them on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated 400°F oven for about 4 to 5 minutes per side. This crisps up the tortillas nicely, giving you a sturdy yet delightfully crunchy “crust” that will hold all the toppings.
Step 4: Assemble the Mexican Pizzas
On four of the crisped tortillas, spread a generous layer of warm refried beans. Next, add a hearty layer of the seasoned ground beef on top. Carefully place the remaining tortillas over each one, creating a sandwich effect.
Step 5: Add Salsa, Cheese, and Toppings
Spread salsa evenly over the top tortilla of each pizza. Sprinkle a mix of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses over the salsa, then scatter black olives, diced tomatoes, and sliced green onions to add that perfect finishing touch.
Step 6: Bake Until Melty and Bubbling
Return the assembled pizzas to the oven and bake for another 8 to 10 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles with enticing golden spots. Once done, slice each pizza into quarters and serve immediately for the best experience.
How to Serve Mexican Pizza Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes bring this Mexican pizza recipe to life. Try dolloping sour cream or guacamole on top for creamy contrast. A sprinkle of chopped cilantro or a squeeze of fresh lime juice can add bright, herbal notes that balance the rich layers underneath.
Side Dishes
Serve this pizza with a crisp, refreshing side salad dressed lightly with lime vinaigrette. Black beans and corn salad or a side of Mexican rice will complement the flavors perfectly, turning your meal into a festive feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, cut the Mexican pizza into bite-sized squares to serve as party appetizers. You can also add jalapeños to the topping mix to dial up the heat, making this dish truly your own.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Mexican pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days, making for easy next-day meals or snacks.
Freezing
If you want to freeze some for later, wrap each pizza tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to two months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and the cheese is melty again. This helps keep the tortillas crispy, avoiding the sogginess that microwaving might cause.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in the Mexican Pizza Recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works wonderfully as a leaner alternative and still absorbs all those delicious taco spices beautifully.
Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap out the flour tortillas for gluten-free tortillas, and make sure your taco seasoning doesn’t contain any gluten ingredients.
How spicy is this Mexican pizza?
The spice level is mild by default thanks to the taco seasoning and salsa—but you can customize the heat by adding jalapeños, hot sauce, or spicier salsa if desired.
Can I prepare any of this in advance?
You can cook and season the beef ahead of time, and even crisp the tortillas in advance. Then just assemble and bake when you’re ready to eat.
What other toppings can I add?
Feel free to get creative! Chopped bell peppers, corn kernels, sliced jalapeños, or even a drizzle of sour cream or guacamole after baking make fantastic additions.
Final Thoughts
This Mexican Pizza Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures wrapped up in one fun, family-friendly dish. It’s perfect for those busy nights when you want something quick yet super satisfying. So turn on your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a slice of joy that never fails to impress. Trust me, once you try this, it will quickly become a treasured staple in your kitchen rotation.
Print
Mexican Pizza Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 Mexican pizzas (serves 4–6)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
- Diet: Nut-Free
Description
This delicious Mexican Pizza is a layered Tex-Mex favorite featuring seasoned ground beef, refried beans, melted cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, and fresh toppings served on crispy baked flour tortillas. Perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner that combines convenience and fiesta flavors all in one.
Ingredients
Beef Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/4 cup water
Bean Layer
- 1 can (16 oz) refried beans
Tortillas
- 8 small flour tortillas
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for brushing)
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 medium tomato, diced
Instructions
- Preheat and cook beef: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the taco seasoning and water. Simmer this mixture for 5 minutes to blend flavors well.
- Warm refried beans: While the beef simmers, place the refried beans in a small saucepan and warm them over low heat, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.
- Prepare tortillas: Lightly brush both sides of each flour tortilla with vegetable oil. Arrange the tortillas on a baking sheet and bake for 4 to 5 minutes per side until they become lightly crisped but not browned.
- Assemble the pizzas: Spread a layer of warmed refried beans on four of the toasted tortillas. Evenly distribute the seasoned ground beef over the beans. Then place the remaining four tortillas on top, creating a sandwich-like stack.
- Add toppings: Spread salsa evenly over the top tortillas. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Scatter black olives, diced tomatoes, and sliced green onions on top for freshness and color.
- Bake to finish: Return the assembled pizzas to the oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, slice each pizza into quarters, and serve hot for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for ground beef for a leaner alternative.
- Add sliced jalapeños to the toppings for extra spice and heat.
- Drizzle with sour cream after baking to add cool creaminess and balance the flavors.
