Description
Homemade Mexican Pizza
A family-favorite dinner idea, this Homemade Mexican Pizza combines layers of savory beef, beans, melted cheese, and fresh toppings for a flavorful twist.
Ingredients:
2 large tortillas
1 cup cooked taco meat
1/2 cup refried beans
1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
1/4 cup chopped tomatoes
2 tbsp red onion
2 tbsp jalapeños
Instructions:
Spread refried beans on one tortilla and top with seasoned beef.
Add another tortilla, cover with shredded cheese.
Bake at 375°F for 8-10 minutes.
Garnish with tomatoes, onions, and jalapeños before serving.
#FamilyPizzaFiesta
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 2. Place one large tortilla on the prepared sheet. Spread an even layer of refried beans over the entire surface. 3. Evenly distribute the cooked, seasoned taco meat over the beans. 4. Carefully place the second tortilla on top to create a “crust” layer. 5. Sprinkle the full cup of shredded Mexican cheese blend over the top tortilla, covering it completely. 6. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly and the tortilla edges are crisp. 7. Remove from the oven and immediately garnish with fresh chopped tomatoes, red onion, and jalapeños. Slice into wedges and serve.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Mexican pizza hot, cut into wedges like a traditional pizza. Accompany it with sides like a crisp green salad, Spanish rice, or a dollop of cool sour cream and guacamole for dipping. For a complete fiesta, offer bowls of extra toppings like sliced black olives, cilantro, or a drizzle of salsa or crema on the side, allowing everyone to customize their slice.
How-to Summary
To make a Homemade Mexican Pizza, layer refried beans and taco meat on a tortilla, top with a second tortilla, cover with cheese, and bake at 375°F until melted and crisp. Finish with fresh tomatoes, onion, and jalapeños.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this vegetarian? Absolutely. Replace the taco meat with a plant-based ground alternative, or use a mixture of sautéed bell peppers, corn, and black beans.
How do I prevent a soggy pizza? Ensure your taco meat is well-drained of excess grease and moisture. Pre-baking the bottom tortilla for 3-4 minutes before adding toppings can also create a crisper base.
Can I use different cheese? Yes. While a Mexican blend is ideal for meltiness and flavor, cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a pepper jack for extra heat work perfectly.
How can I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F to maintain crispness; the microwave will make it soft.
Can I prepare it ahead of time? You can assemble the pizza (without the fresh toppings) up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate for a few hours. Bake directly from the fridge, adding a minute or two to the cooking time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overloading the pizza with wet toppings like salsa before baking, as this will steam the tortilla and make it soggy. Don’t skip draining the cooked taco meat. Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking to achieve the perfect crispy texture. Finally, be careful not to over-bake, as the tortillas can quickly go from crisp to burnt.
Conclusion
This Homemade Mexican Pizza is a quick, customizable, and crowd-pleasing meal that brings the fun of Taco Tuesday into a deliciously handheld form. By following the simple steps and tips above, you can avoid common pitfalls and create a perfectly crisp, flavorful dinner that’s sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation. Enjoy your Family Pizza Fiesta!
