Copycat Taco Bell Mexican Pizzas Recipe

If you're a fan of Taco Bell's Mexican Pizzas, you'll love this homemade version. It's easy to make, delicious, and perfect for a quick meal or a fun family dinner. Follow this guide to recreate the iconic dish right in your kitchen.
Are you craving the delectable flavors of Taco Bell's Mexican Pizzas? Look no further! This copycat recipe will help you bring that fast-food favorite into your home. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy this beloved dish without the drive-thru wait. Read on to discover how you can make your own Mexican Pizzas that taste just like Taco Bell's!

What are Copycat Taco Bell Mexican Pizzas?

Copycat Taco Bell Mexican Pizzas are a homemade version of the popular fast-food item. These pizzas feature a crispy tortilla base layered with refried beans, seasoned ground beef, a rich enchilada sauce, melted cheese, and fresh toppings like tomatoes and green onions. They are baked to perfection and offer a delightful mix of textures and flavors.

Ingredients List for Copycat Taco Bell Mexican Pizzas

Main Ingredients:

• 1 cup refried beans
• 2 small tomatoes, chopped
• ⅔ cup Colby Jack cheese, shredded
• 2 stalks green onions, chopped
• ⅓ cup red enchilada sauce
• 4 whole wheat tortillas (I like La Banderita Xtreme or Ole Xtreme)
• Cooking spray

Substitutions and Variations

Feel free to customize your Mexican Pizzas to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:

• Cheese: Swap Colby Jack for cheddar, mozzarella, or a dairy-free alternative.
• Tortillas: Use flour tortillas, gluten-free tortillas, or even cauliflower tortillas for a low-carb option.
• Beans: Substitute refried beans with black beans or pinto beans.
• Meat: Add seasoned ground beef, shredded chicken, or omit meat for a vegetarian version.
• Sauce: Try green enchilada sauce for a different flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

How to Cook Copycat Taco Bell Mexican Pizzas: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Prepare the Tortillas

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly coat a baking sheet with cooking spray.
3. Place the tortillas on the baking sheet and spray the tops with cooking spray.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, or until they start to crisp up. Flip them halfway through for even crispiness.

Step 2: Layer the Ingredients

1. Remove the tortillas from the oven and let them cool slightly.
2. Spread a layer of refried beans over each tortilla.
3. If using seasoned ground beef or another meat, add a layer on top of the beans.

Step 3: Add Sauce and Cheese

1. Spoon a generous amount of red enchilada sauce over the meat and beans.
2. Sprinkle shredded Colby Jack cheese evenly over the sauce.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

1. Place the assembled pizzas back in the oven.
2. Bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Add Fresh Toppings

1. Once the pizzas are done baking, remove them from the oven.
2. Sprinkle chopped tomatoes and green onions on top.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overloading the Tortillas: Avoid adding too many toppings, as this can make the tortillas soggy.
2. Skipping the Crisping Step: Ensure the tortillas are crisped in the oven before adding toppings to maintain the desired texture.
3. Using Cold Ingredients: Allow the beans and meat to warm to room temperature before layering to ensure even baking.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Copycat Taco Bell Mexican Pizzas

• Slice and Serve: Cut the pizzas into quarters for easy serving.
• Accompaniments: Serve with a side of guacamole, sour cream, or salsa for added flavor.

Presentation Ideas for Copycat Taco Bell Mexican Pizzas

• Garnish: Add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a dollop of sour cream on top.
• Plating: Use colorful plates to enhance the visual appeal of your Mexican Pizzas.

Copycat Taco Bell Mexican Pizzas Recipe Tips

1. Crispy Tortillas: For extra crispy tortillas, bake them a bit longer before adding the toppings.
2. Extra Flavor: Add a dash of taco seasoning to the refried beans for a flavor boost.
3. Melting Cheese: Ensure the cheese is fully melted and slightly browned for the best taste.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make these pizzas ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the pizzas and refrigerate them for up to a day before baking. Just be sure to bake them until fully heated through.

Q: Can I freeze the Mexican Pizzas?
A: It's best to freeze the tortillas, beans, and meat separately and assemble the pizzas when ready to eat.

Q: What can I use instead of red enchilada sauce?
A: Green enchilada sauce or even a spicy salsa can be great substitutes.

Q: Are these pizzas gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free tortillas to make the recipe gluten-free.

Q: How can I make this recipe vegan?
A: Use dairy-free cheese and skip the meat for a vegan version.

Conclusion

Making your own Copycat Taco Bell Mexican Pizzas at home is a fun and delicious way to enjoy a fast-food favorite. With customizable ingredients and simple steps, you can recreate this iconic dish to suit your taste. Try this recipe today and enjoy a slice of Taco Bell's Mexican Pizzas right from your kitchen!

Print