How To Make The Best Homemade Mexican Pizza Recipe
If you’ve ever craved a playful, flavor-packed dinner that’s equal parts comfort food and fiesta, you absolutely have to try How To Make The Best Homemade Mexican Pizza. Imagine crispy, golden tortillas stacked with creamy refried beans, zesty seasoned beef, and melty cheese, all topped with pops of tomato, briny olives, and fresh green onions. This recipe takes everything you love about classic Mexican-American flavors and transforms it into a fun, easy-to-make pizza that’s perfect for sharing (or not!). Whether you’re cooking for family night or jazzing up your weeknight dinner routine, this is a recipe that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of How To Make The Best Homemade Mexican Pizza is in its simplicity. Every ingredient is chosen for maximum flavor, texture, and that irresistible restaurant-style color. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters:
- Ground Beef (1/2 pound): Provides a hearty, savory base that soaks up all the delicious Mexican spices.
- Taco Seasoning (1 tablespoon): Instantly adds a punch of warmth and depth to the beef, making every bite crave-worthy.
- Water (1/4 cup): Helps the seasoning coat the beef evenly and keeps it juicy.
- Refried Beans (1/2 cup): Creamy and rich, they act as the luscious “sauce” layer and help hold the pizzas together.
- Small Flour Tortillas (4): These crisp up beautifully in the oven, creating that signature pizza crunch.
- Enchilada or Taco Sauce (1/2 cup): Adds tangy, savory moisture and authentic Mexican flavor on top.
- Shredded Mexican Cheese Blend (1 cup): Melts into a bubbly, gooey topping that ties all the flavors together.
- Chopped Tomatoes (1/4 cup): Fresh and juicy, they add a pop of color and brightness.
- Sliced Black Olives (1/4 cup): For a salty, briny bite that contrasts perfectly with the rich cheese.
- Chopped Green Onions (2 tablespoons): Lend a punch of freshness and a little crunch as a finishing touch.
- Olive Oil (1 tablespoon, for brushing): Key for getting the tortillas extra crisp and golden without deep frying.
How to Make How To Make The Best Homemade Mexican Pizza
Step 1: Brown and Season the Beef
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and adding the ground beef. Cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s no longer pink and just starting to caramelize—about 5 to 6 minutes. Drain off any excess fat, then stir in the taco seasoning and water. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the mixture thickens and the flavors meld. This is your flavor-packed foundation!
Step 2: Crisp the Tortillas
While your beef is simmering, brush both sides of your flour tortillas with a little olive oil and arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake at 400°F for 5 to 7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re crisp and lightly golden. This step is crucial for that perfect, sturdy pizza base—no soggy bottoms here!
Step 3: Layer the Beans and Beef
Once your tortillas are crisp, spread a generous layer of refried beans on two of them. Top each with half of the seasoned beef, spreading it all the way to the edges so every bite is loaded with flavor. These layers make your pizza both hearty and satisfying.
Step 4: Assemble and Top
Place the remaining tortillas on top of the bean-and-beef layers to create a “pizza sandwich.” Spoon the enchilada or taco sauce over the top tortillas, spreading evenly. Scatter shredded cheese over the sauce, then sprinkle with chopped tomatoes, black olives, and green onions. This is where your Mexican pizza starts to look seriously irresistible!
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Return the assembled pizzas to the oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and just starting to turn golden. Let the pizzas cool for a couple of minutes—trust me, it’s worth the wait—then slice into wedges and serve up your masterpiece.
How to Serve How To Make The Best Homemade Mexican Pizza
Garnishes
When it comes to finishing touches, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or some creamy avocado slices can take How To Make The Best Homemade Mexican Pizza to a whole new level. A few extra green onions or even jalapeño slices add extra zing for those who like a little heat. Don’t be shy—make it your own!
Side Dishes
This pizza is a superstar on its own, but why not round out the meal with some classic Mexican sides? Think fluffy Spanish rice, a bowl of tangy pico de gallo, or crunchy tortilla chips with guacamole. These sides add texture and freshness to your table, and they’re just plain fun to eat alongside your pizza.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party-ready platter, cut the pizzas into small wedges and serve as appetizers with bowls of salsa and hot sauce for dipping. Or, make it a DIY pizza night, setting out toppings so everyone can build their own version. However you serve it, How To Make The Best Homemade Mexican Pizza makes any meal feel like a celebration.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), let the pizzas cool completely, then store slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Layer parchment paper between slices to prevent sticking and preserve that lovely crispness.
Freezing
How To Make The Best Homemade Mexican Pizza can be frozen for later enjoyment. Wrap cooled slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready for a quick, delicious meal.
Reheating
To revive that fresh-baked taste and texture, reheat slices in a toaster oven or regular oven at 375°F for about 8 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the tortillas are crisp again. The microwave works in a pinch, but you’ll lose some of that satisfying crunch.
FAQs
Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just skip the ground beef and double the refried beans, or try seasoned lentils for a hearty, plant-based twist that’s every bit as satisfying.
What’s the best way to keep the tortillas crispy?
Crisping the tortillas in the oven before assembling is the secret. Make sure to brush them lightly with olive oil and bake until just golden—this keeps them sturdy and delicious, even after adding toppings.
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
You can, but keep in mind that flour tortillas tend to crisp up more evenly and provide a sturdier base. If you prefer corn, go for smaller tortillas and watch closely in the oven to avoid over-browning.
How spicy is this recipe?
The recipe as written is mild to medium, but you can easily adjust the heat. Add jalapeños, use a spicy taco sauce, or sprinkle on hot sauce to make How To Make The Best Homemade Mexican Pizza as fiery as you like!
Can I make these pizzas ahead for a party?
Yes! You can prep the beef and chop your toppings in advance. Crisp the tortillas and assemble right before baking for maximum crunch and melty cheese, then slice and serve hot to your happy guests.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to bring a little excitement to your dinner table, I can’t recommend How To Make The Best Homemade Mexican Pizza enough. It’s easy, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to put a smile on everyone’s face. Gather your favorite people, pile on the toppings, and enjoy every delicious, cheesy bite!
Print
How To Make The Best Homemade Mexican Pizza Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 2 Mexican pizzas (4 servings) 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Learn how to make the best homemade Mexican pizza with layers of seasoned ground beef, refried beans, enchilada sauce, and melted Mexican cheese on crispy flour tortillas. This easy, flavorful recipe delivers a Mexican-American classic that’s perfect for a quick dinner or satisfying meal any day of the week.
Ingredients
Meat and Seasoning
- 1/2 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1/4 cup water
Base and Sauce
- 4 small flour tortillas
- 1/2 cup refried beans
- 1/2 cup enchilada sauce or taco sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for brushing
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
- 1/4 cup chopped tomatoes
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Cook Beef: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, about 5 to 6 minutes. Drain excess fat. Stir in taco seasoning and water, then simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture thickens and is well combined.
- Crisp Tortillas: While the beef simmers, lightly brush both sides of the tortillas with olive oil. Arrange them on a baking sheet and bake for 5 to 7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are crisp and lightly golden. Remove from oven.
- Assemble Base Layers: Spread refried beans evenly over two of the crispy tortillas. Divide the seasoned ground beef equally and spread it on top of the beans on both tortillas. Then place the remaining two tortillas on top, creating a sandwich style Mexican pizza base.
- Add Sauce and Toppings: Spread enchilada or taco sauce generously over the top tortillas. Sprinkle the shredded Mexican cheese blend evenly, then top with chopped tomatoes, sliced black olives, and chopped green onions for added flavor and texture.
- Bake to Melt Cheese: Return the assembled pizzas to the oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly, and the pizzas are heated through.
- Serve: Remove from oven, let cool slightly, then slice into wedges and serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Customize your Mexican pizza with jalapeños, sour cream, or avocado slices for extra flavor.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the beef and double the refried beans or substitute with seasoned lentils.
- Crisping the tortillas before assembling helps prevent sogginess and keeps the pizza crispy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 pizza
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 680 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
