Mexican Pizza Recipe

Mexican pizza is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines the best elements of pizza and traditional Mexican flavors. It features a crispy tortilla base, topped with seasoned ground beef, refried beans, cheese, and fresh toppings like salsa, avocado, and sour cream. This quick meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.

Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef

1. Cook the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks.
2. Season the Beef: Add the taco seasoning and cook according to the package instructions. If using homemade taco seasoning, add a few tablespoons of water to help the flavors combine. Let it simmer for a few minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Crisp the Tortillas

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Crisp the Tortillas: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil. Fry each tortilla for 1-2 minutes per side until crispy and golden brown. Alternatively, you can brush the tortillas with oil and bake them for 5-7 minutes until they are crisp, flipping halfway through.
3. Remove and drain: Place the tortillas on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil if fried.

Step 3: Assemble the Mexican Pizza

1. Layer the Ingredients: Spread a thin layer of refried beans over each tortilla, followed by a spoonful of salsa.
2. Add the Ground Beef: Top the beans and salsa with the seasoned ground beef. Use about ¼ cup of the mixture per tortilla, spreading it evenly.
3. Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the top.

Step 4: Bake the Pizza

1. Place the assembled tortillas on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Add Fresh Toppings

1. Once the pizzas are out of the oven, add your favorite fresh toppings such as diced tomatoes, chopped lettuce, black olives, cilantro, avocado, and sour cream.
2. Add a drizzle of hot sauce or extra salsa if you like some heat.

Serving Suggestions

• Sides: Serve your Mexican pizza with Mexican rice, chips and salsa, or guacamole to complete the meal.
• Dipping Sauces: Try serving with sour cream, ranch dressing, or guacamole for dipping.

Tips for the Perfect Mexican Pizza

• Double Layer: For a thicker version, you can double the tortillas. Layer a tortilla with refried beans and another tortilla on top before adding the beef and cheese.
• Meat Alternatives: Swap out the ground beef for shredded chicken, ground turkey, or vegetarian crumbles for a different take.
• Beans: If you prefer whole beans, substitute the refried beans with black beans or pinto beans.

Variations

1. Vegetarian Mexican Pizza

Skip the meat and add extra beans, sautéed veggies (like bell peppers and onions), or even mushrooms for a hearty and satisfying vegetarian version.

2. BBQ Chicken Mexican Pizza

Replace the ground beef with shredded chicken tossed in BBQ sauce. Add toppings like red onion, cilantro, and jalapeños for a unique twist.

3. Spicy Mexican Pizza

Turn up the heat by adding jalapeños, chipotle peppers, or spicy salsa to your pizza. You can also use a spicy cheese blend to give it extra kick.

FAQs

1. Can I make Mexican pizza ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the meat and crisp the tortillas in advance. Assemble the pizzas just before baking for the best texture and flavor.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Leftover Mexican pizza can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain the crispiness of the tortillas.

3. Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?

Yes, corn tortillas will give the pizza a slightly different texture but are just as delicious. They are also a great gluten-free alternative.

4. What other toppings can I add?

Feel free to customize your Mexican pizza with toppings like green onions, pickled jalapeños, queso fresco, or even a drizzle of ranch dressing.

Conclusion

Mexican pizza is a fun, flavorful dish that’s perfect for taco night or when you’re craving something quick and easy. With its crispy tortilla base, seasoned beef, melted cheese, and fresh toppings, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Customize it with your favorite toppings, or try out one of the variations for a new take on this classic!

Yield: 4

Mexican Pizza Recipe

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Mexican pizza is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines the best elements of pizza and traditional Mexican flavors. It features a crispy tortilla base, topped with seasoned ground beef, refried beans, cheese, and fresh toppings like salsa, avocado, and sour cream. This quick meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or a vegetarian option)
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 (15 oz) can refried beans
• 4 large flour tortillas (or corn tortillas for a crispier texture)
• 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend (cheddar, Monterey Jack, etc.)
• 1/2 cup salsa (or enchilada sauce)
• 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
• 1/4 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/4 cup sour cream (for topping)
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Cooking spray or oil

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meat:

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.

Add the taco seasoning and 1/2 cup of water. Simmer for 5 minutes until the mixture thickens.

Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease or spray a baking sheet.

3. Toast the Tortillas:

Lightly spray both sides of the tortillas with cooking spray or oil. Place the tortillas on the baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes until they are crisp, flipping them halfway through.

4. Assemble the Mexican Pizza:

Spread a thin layer of refried beans over each tortilla.

Next, layer with the cooked and seasoned ground beef.

Add a thin layer of salsa (or enchilada sauce) on top of the beef.

Sprinkle each pizza with shredded cheese.

4. Bake:

Return the assembled pizzas to the oven and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

5. Top and Serve:

Remove from the oven and top with black olives, diced tomatoes, and green onions. Add dollops of sour cream and sprinkle with fresh cilantro.

Slice the Mexican pizzas into wedges and serve immediately.

Notes

• Cheese Options: Feel free to use different cheeses such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick.
• Toppings: Customize with your favorite toppings like jalapeños, guacamole, or pico de gallo for added flavor and texture.
• Crunch Factor: For extra crispiness, use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas or bake them a bit longer before assembling.