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Mexican Pizza combines the bold flavors of classic Mexican dishes with the fun and comfort of pizza night. It features a crispy tortilla base layered with refried beans, saucy seasoned beef, and gooey melted cheese all sandwiched between two golden tortillas finishing with zesty enchilada sauce and your favorite toppings. This is the dish I always whip up when friends are coming over because everyone gets to customize their own and it is guaranteed to disappear fast.
I first tried this on a pizza night when I was out of pizza sauce and toppings so I improvised with taco ingredients – it was such a hit that it became a monthly tradition in my house and my kids beg for it every time.
Ingredients
- Flour tortillas: select ones that will crisp up nicely in the oven and are sturdy enough to hold all the toppings
- Refried beans: these add creamy texture and help bind the layers stick with traditional or try vegetarian for a lighter feel
- Ground beef: pick 80 or 85 percent lean for juicy flavor and brown it well for richer taste
- Taco seasoning: use your favorite blend or homemade mix for real depth
- Enchilada sauce: either red or green but make sure it is from a brand you love since it gives big flavor
- Cheddar and pepper jack cheese: shred your own for best melt and taste the combo adds both creaminess and a little kick
- Diced tomatoes: use juicy ripe ones or drain canned to keep the top from getting soggy
- Black olives: go for sliced canned olives for ease and salty bite
- Green onions: choose fresh and slice thinly for a pop of color and mild oniony crunch
Pro tip
Always grab tortillas and cheese that list few additives for the cleanest taste and best results.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Beef:
- Start by browning ground beef over medium high heat in a large skillet until no pink remains. Drain any excess fat then sprinkle in your taco seasoning with a splash of water letting it simmer for five minutes to infuse every crumb of meat with flavor. Set aside.
- Crisp the Tortillas:
- Place flour tortillas on a baking sheet and toast them in a hot oven or on a large skillet over medium heat for two to three minutes per side. You want them golden and just starting to get crisp but still flexible.
- Layer the Fillings:
- Spread about a quarter cup of refried beans over one tortilla. Top with a generous scoop of seasoned beef and a sprinkle of cheese then gently press another toasted tortilla on top to make a sandwich of fillings.
- Add the Sauce and Toppings:
- Spoon enchilada sauce over the top of each pizza right up to the edges. Scatter with more cheese diced tomatoes olives and green onion for a true fiesta of colors and textures.
- Bake to Finish:
- Slide pizzas onto a lined baking sheet and bake in a hot oven at four hundred degrees for about five minutes or just until the cheese is melted and everything is bubbly. Let cool for a couple minutes before slicing into quarters.
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Cheese is the magic ingredient that brings this pizza to life. The way it bubbles over the top and holds the sauce and toppings together reminds me of the first time we all made these together in the kitchen. Everyone was giggling waiting to see whose pizza would be the cheesiest
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven to keep that crisp texture. I do not recommend microwaving as it can make the tortilla soggy.
Ingredient Substitutions
Feel free to swap the ground beef for shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked ground turkey for a lighter version. Use black beans or pinto beans instead of refried if you need a chunkier texture. Cotija cheese or Queso Blanco drizzled on top also take this to the next level.
Serving Suggestions
Mexican Pizza is great with a side of Mexican rice a dollop of sour cream or a cooling salad of shredded lettuce. For extra flair serve with a squeeze of lime and your favorite salsa.
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Cultural or Historical Context
Inspired by both American pizza and Mexican tostadas this dish takes the best elements from both bringing them together in a way that is both comforting and craveworthy. The layers are a nod to classic Mexican casseroles but with a weeknight friendly twist.
Commonly Asked Questions
- → How can I customize the toppings?
Additions like sour cream, fresh cilantro, shredded lettuce, salsa, or extra black beans let you personalize each slice.
- → Can I substitute chicken or other proteins?
Absolutely! Shredded chicken or ground turkey work well with the same seasonings for a tasty variation.
- → How do I make the tortillas crispy?
Bake them for a lighter crunch, or deep fry for extra crispy texture and richer flavor.
- → What cheese varieties can be used?
Cheddar and pepper-jack melt beautifully, but feel free to try Cotija, Queso Blanco, or any favorite melting cheese.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Keep leftover slices in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within two days for best taste.