Homemade Mexican pizza is a delightful fusion of flavors that combines the rich, vibrant tastes of Mexican cuisine with the comfort and familiarity of pizza. It’s a dish that brings together layers of savory ingredients like refried beans, seasoned ground beef, tangy salsa, melty cheese, and fresh toppings, all resting on a crispy tortilla or pizza crust.

Creating your own homemade Mexican pizza at home not only allows you to customize it to your liking but also makes for a fun and satisfying culinary adventure. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal, a crowd-pleaser for gatherings, or a unique way to enjoy taco night, homemade Mexican pizza is a versatile dish that is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. With its crispy tortilla base, rich layers of refried beans, seasoned meat, and fresh toppings, homemade Mexican pizza delivers bold flavors that are easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.

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What is Mexican Pizza?

Mexican pizza is a tasty dish that blends the flavors of Mexican and Italian cooking. Instead of using a traditional pizza crust, it often features tortillas or flatbread as the base. Layers of refried beans, seasoned meat or chicken, salsa, melted cheese, and fresh toppings like tomatoes, onions, and cilantro make it a flavorful and versatile meal. It’s a great option for quick dinners, parties, or anytime you want something delicious and easy to customize.

Origin and Popularity

The exact history of homemade Mexican pizza is unclear, but it became well-known thanks to Taco Bell, which introduced a version in the 1980s. However, the concept of homemade Mexican pizza existed earlier, with home cooks in the Southwest U.S. experimenting by adding Mexican flavors to pizza-like creations. Today, making homemade Mexican pizza has become a popular culinary trend, allowing people to enjoy this delicious fusion dish in a more personalized and fresh way.

Its popularity comes from its bold taste and simplicity. Recently, homemade versions have grown more popular as people look for healthier or personalized takes on this fun dish.

Key Ingredients

Mexican pizza is built from simple but flavorful components, including:

Base: Flour or corn tortillas, or a thin pizza crust.
Protein: Ground beef, shredded chicken, or plant-based alternatives, spiced with taco seasoning.
Beans: Refried beans or black beans for a rich layer.
Sauce: Salsa or enchilada sauce, or a mix of both.
Cheese: Shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend.
Toppings: Diced tomatoes, green onions, olives, jalapeños, and fresh cilantro.

Optional extras like guacamole, sour cream, or hot sauce can add even more flavor.

How it Differs from Traditional Pizza

While both Mexican and traditional pizzas share a similar concept, they differ in key ways:

Crust: Traditional pizza uses yeast dough, while Mexican pizza often uses tortillas or flatbread.
Sauce: Italian pizza relies on tomato sauce, but Mexican pizza uses salsa or enchilada sauce.
Toppings: Mexican pizza features beans, taco-seasoned meat, and Mexican-inspired garnishes instead of classic toppings like pepperoni and mushrooms.
Cheese: Mozzarella is the go-to for traditional pizza, but Mexican pizza favors cheddar or Monterey Jack blends for a bolder taste.

Mexican pizza brings together the best of two cuisines, offering a unique and flavorful twist on a classic favorite.

Essential Ingredients

The magic of Mexican pizza lies in its carefully chosen ingredients, which create layers of bold and satisfying flavors. Here’s a closer look at the essentials, from the base to the toppings.

Tortilla vs. Pizza Dough

One key difference between Mexican pizza and traditional pizza is the base:

Tortilla: Flour or corn tortillas are common for Mexican pizza, offering a thin, crispy foundation. These cook quickly and are perfect for a lighter, crunchier texture.
Pizza Dough: While less traditional, thin pizza dough can also be used for a sturdier base. This option works well if you prefer a slightly thicker and more bread-like texture.

Meat Options

The protein layer is central to Mexican pizza’s flavor profile. Common choices include:

Ground Beef: Seasoned with classic taco spices like chili powder, cumin, garlic, and paprika, ground beef adds richness and depth.
Shredded Chicken: Cooked and shredded chicken seasoned with taco or fajita seasoning is a leaner, flavorful alternative.
Chorizo: For a spicier kick, crumbled and cooked chorizo offers bold and smoky flavors.
Carnitas: Slow-cooked pork carnitas can bring a tender, savory twist to your Mexican pizza.

Vegetarian and Vegan Alternatives

Mexican pizza is easy to adapt for vegetarians and vegans, with plenty of delicious alternatives:

Beans: Refried beans, black beans, or pinto beans can replace meat while adding protein and texture.
Vegetables: Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, and onions make a colorful and flavorful topping.
Plant-Based Proteins: Vegan ground beef substitutes or crumbled tofu seasoned with taco spices are excellent meatless options.
Vegan Cheese: A dairy-free shredded cheese or cashew-based cheese sauce can mimic the creamy texture of traditional cheese.

Tools and Equipment

Making homemade Mexican pizza is simple and requires only a few basic tools and equipment. Using the right items ensures even cooking, proper assembly, and easy cleanup. Here’s what you’ll need:

Baking Pans

Baking pans are ideal for achieving a perfectly crisp base:

Sheet Pan: A standard sheet pan works well for baking multiple pizzas at once, especially if you’re using tortillas. Its flat surface ensures even cooking.
Pizza Stone: For an extra crispy crust, a pizza stone can be preheated in the oven to mimic the effect of a pizza oven.
Round Pizza Pan: A traditional pizza pan works perfectly if you’re using a dough base or want the classic pizza shape.

Griddle or Skillet

If you prefer to cook your Mexican pizza on the stovetop, these tools are essential:

Griddle: A large, flat griddle is perfect for making multiple tortillas crispy at the same time. It’s especially useful for feeding a crowd.
Skillet: A non-stick or cast-iron skillet is great for individual servings, allowing you to crisp up the tortilla base before adding toppings.

Essential Utensils

To prepare and assemble your Mexican pizza efficiently, you’ll need the following utensils:

Spatula: For flipping tortillas or transferring the finished pizza from pan to plate.
Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for chopping toppings like tomatoes, onions, and cilantro.
Mixing Bowls: Use these for preparing your meat, mixing seasonings, or combining ingredients for sauces.
Cheese Grater: If you’re using a block of cheese, a grater is necessary for freshly shredded goodness.
Tongs: Handy for flipping tortillas or handling hot ingredients.
Spoon or Ladle: Ideal for spreading refried beans, salsa, or sauce evenly across the base.

Preparing the Base

The base of your Mexican pizza sets the stage for its flavor and texture. Whether you prefer traditional tortillas or want to experiment with alternatives, here’s how to create the perfect foundation.

Choosing the Right Tortilla

The choice of tortilla greatly impacts the taste and structure of your Mexican pizza:

Flour Tortillas: These are the most common choice, as they are sturdy and crisp up nicely when baked or fried. They’re perfect for holding heavier toppings.
Corn Tortillas: A great option for those seeking a gluten-free base or a more authentic Mexican flavor. Corn tortillas are slightly thinner and more fragile but offer a delightful crunch.
Whole-Wheat Tortillas: A healthier option that provides a nuttier flavor and additional fiber.

Look for tortillas that are fresh, pliable, and large enough to accommodate your toppings.

Making a Crispy Crust

A crispy crust is key to a satisfying Mexican pizza. Here’s how to achieve it:

Bake Before Assembling: Preheat your oven or skillet, and lightly crisp the tortilla on both sides before adding toppings. This prevents it from becoming soggy.
Oil for Extra Crunch: Brush the tortilla with a thin layer of oil (vegetable, olive, or avocado oil) before baking or frying. This adds flavor and enhances crispiness.
Use a Pizza Stone: If baking, a preheated pizza stone can help achieve an evenly crispy crust.
Pan-Frying Option: For maximum crunch, lightly fry the tortilla in a skillet with a small amount of oil until golden and crispy.

Alternative Base Options

If you want to switch things up or accommodate dietary needs, here are some creative alternatives to tortillas:

Thin Pizza Dough: Roll out pizza dough very thinly for a slightly chewy yet sturdy base.
Naan or Flatbread: These make excellent substitutes and require little preparation. Their thicker texture provides a more substantial bite.
Cauliflower Crust: A low-carb and gluten-free option that adds a unique flavor. Pre-made cauliflower crusts are widely available or can be made from scratch.
Sweet Potato Slices: For mini Mexican pizzas, thick rounds of roasted sweet potatoes can be used as a nutritious and flavorful base.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why Was the Mexican Pizza Discontinued?

Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza was discontinued in 2020, primarily as part of the company’s efforts to streamline their menu and reduce environmental impact. The packaging for the item, made with non-recyclable materials, was a concern. However, due to popular demand and vocal customer advocacy, Taco Bell reintroduced the Mexican Pizza to its menu in 2022, along with more sustainable packaging solutions.

Is Taco Bell Mexican Pizza Healthy?

The healthiness of Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza depends on individual dietary needs and goals. A single serving contains approximately 530 calories, with 19 grams of fat, 49 grams of carbohydrates, and 20 grams of protein. While it’s not the healthiest option due to its high sodium and fat content, it can be enjoyed occasionally as part of a balanced diet. Homemade versions can be made healthier by using whole-grain tortillas, lean protein, less cheese, and fresh toppings.

Did Mexican Pizza Have Olives?

Yes, Taco Bell’s original Mexican Pizza featured black olives as part of its toppings. However, olives were later removed from the recipe, likely due to changes in ingredient availability or customer preferences. If you’re a fan of olives, they can easily be added to a homemade version for an extra burst of flavor.

How Is Pizza Different in Mexico?

In Mexico, pizza often reflects local culinary traditions by incorporating unique ingredients and flavors. While Italian-style pizzas are widely available, Mexican pizza variations may include toppings like chorizo, jalapeños, beans, avocado, and even corn. Some pizzerias offer sauces with a spicy kick or experiment with regional cheeses like Oaxaca or cotija. The crust is usually thinner and crispier compared to American-style pizza.

Conclusion

Mexican pizza is a flavorful and versatile dish that brings together the best of Mexican and Italian cuisines. With its customizable base, bold toppings, and easy preparation, it’s a meal that can suit any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings.

Recap

What is Mexican Pizza? It’s a fusion dish using tortillas or alternative bases, topped with Mexican-inspired ingredients like refried beans, seasoned meat, salsa, cheese, and fresh garnishes.
Key Tips: Choose the right base, pre-crisp it for the perfect texture, and avoid overloading with toppings to maintain balance and structure.
Flexibility: Mexican pizza is adaptable for various diets, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, making it a dish everyone can enjoy.
Homemade Advantage: Creating your own allows for healthier, fresher, and more personalized results compared to fast-food versions.

Final Tips

Experiment Freely: Don’t hesitate to try new toppings, spices, or bases to discover your favorite combination.
Prep in Advance: Save time by prepping ingredients like cooked meat, beans, and chopped vegetables beforehand.
Get Creative with Presentation: Serve Mexican pizza with sides like guacamole, sour cream, or a fresh salad to complete the meal.
Share and Enjoy: Mexican pizza is a crowd-pleaser, so share your creation with family and friends for a fun dining experience.

With its vibrant flavors and endless customization options, Mexican pizza is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy the process, and savor the delicious results!

homemade mexican pizza

Author: sahelabdo44
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 2 pizzas (serves 4) 1x

Print Recipe

Description

Mexican Pizza is a delicious fusion of Mexican and Italian cuisines, featuring crispy tortillas layered with seasoned beef, refried beans, and melty cheese, topped with fresh ingredients for an irresistible meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or parties, this dish brings restaurant-quality flavor to your table!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Base:

4 large flour tortillas
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Filling:

1 pound ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade mix)
1/2 cup water
1 cup refried beans (canned or homemade)

For the Topping:

1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
1/2 cup salsa or enchilada sauce
1/2 cup diced tomatoes
1/4 cup sliced black olives
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

Optional Garnishes:

Sour cream
Guacamole
Jalapeño slices

Instructions

Prepare the Tortilla Base:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Lightly fry each tortilla until golden and crispy, about 1 minute per side. Drain on paper towels and set aside.
Cook the Beef:
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess grease.
- Stir in taco seasoning and water. Simmer for 5 minutes until the beef is well coated and the liquid reduces.
Assemble the Pizza:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a thin layer of refried beans on two tortillas.
- Top the beans with the cooked ground beef, dividing evenly between the two tortillas.
- Place another tortilla on top of each, creating two pizza bases.
Add Toppings:
- Spread salsa or enchilada sauce over the top layer of each tortilla stack.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the pizzas.
Bake:
- Place the pizzas on a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the pizzas from the oven and top with diced tomatoes, black olives, green onions, and cilantro.
- Slice into quarters and serve with optional garnishes like sour cream, guacamole, or jalapeños.

Notes and Tips

For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with sautéed vegetables or plant-based crumbles.
To save time, use pre-made tostada shells instead of frying tortillas.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Mexican-American