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These easy Mexican pizzas are the ultimate answer to weeknight cravings when you want something satisfying but simple. Crispy flour tortillas layered with seasoned ground beef, creamy refried beans, gooey cheese, and fresh toppings come together faster than takeout for a fun twist on taco night your whole family will devour.
I remember making a double batch when friends came over for game night and not a single slice was left They are that addictive
Ingredients
- Ground beef: provides a flavorful savory base Go for 80 percent lean for the right balance of moisture and flavor
- Chopped onion: adds sweetness and depth Always look for firm onions with shiny peels
- Salt and pepper: bring out the flavor of the filling Use fresh cracked pepper if you have it
- Chili powder: gives warmth and smokiness Opt for a blend with a rich reddish color
- Cumin and dried cilantro: add classic Tex Mex earthiness Make sure your cumin is fragrant
- Cayenne: gives a gentle heat Adjust up or down for your preferred spice level
- Minced garlic: makes everything taste so much bolder Fresh is best but jarred works in a pinch
- Small fajita size flour tortillas: create the signature crispy crust Check for pliable soft tortillas so they fry up beautifully
- Refried beans: add creamy richness Warm them before spreading for easy assembly
- Taco sauce: brings tang and flavor Try for a medium spicy store bought or homemade variety
- Shredded Colby Jack cheese: melts perfectly over the top Pick a block and grate it yourself for best melt
- Diced tomatoes: give juicy freshness Choose ripe red tomatoes or use grape tomatoes chopped small
- Chopped green onions: lend color and a pop of flavor Seek out vibrant green tops without wilting
- Vegetable oil: ensures a golden crispy fry for the tortillas Any mild oil like canola or sunflower works well
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the Beef:
- In a large skillet cook ground beef over medium high heat breaking it up as you go until no pink remains and juices run clear This takes about 6 to 8 minutes then drain any excess fat for less greasy pizzas
- Season and Sauté:
- Return the beef to the skillet Stir in the chopped onion salt pepper chili powder cumin dried cilantro cayenne and minced garlic Cook for two to three minutes until onions are soft and spices smell toasty This layering step makes the filling taste like slow cooked taco meat
- Fry the Tortillas:
- Pour a thin layer of vegetable oil in a clean skillet Heat over medium When oil shimmers add flour tortillas one at a time Fry until golden and crisp about one to two minutes per side turning once Drain on paper towels so they stay crisp
- Layer the Base:
- Heat refried beans in a saucepan or microwave until warm and spreadable This is the secret to easy assembly Spread a generous layer on each fried tortilla then top each with a scoop of the beef mixture and a sprinkle of cheese
- Assemble the Pizzas:
- Top each assembled tortilla with a second fried tortilla Press gently Drizzle with taco sauce and cover with more shredded cheese This double layer makes each bite hearty and satisfying
- Bake Until Bubbly:
- Arrange pizzas on a baking sheet Bake at four hundred degrees Fahrenheit for ten minutes Cheese will melt and edges get extra crisp Watch closely so the cheese does not brown too quickly
- Finish with Freshness:
- Remove from the oven and shower pizzas with diced tomatoes and green onions Let cool a minute before slicing so everything holds together
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The cheese is my favorite part of this recipe I always add a little extra on top so each slice gets super melty and golden Growing up my little brother and I would fight over the cheesiest corner piece
Storage Tips
Mexican pizzas store well in the fridge for two to three days Keep them in a covered container and reheat slices in a toaster oven or air fryer for best crispness You can also freeze unbaked assembled pizzas and bake straight from frozen just add three to four extra minutes
Ingredient Substitutions
Ground turkey or cooked shredded chicken can stand in for beef for a lighter twist You can swap in black beans for refried beans or try pepper jack cheese for an extra kick If you do not have taco sauce salsa works nicely
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Serving Suggestions
Top each pizza slice with a dollop of sour cream pickled jalapenos or diced avocado For a complete dinner add a salad of Romaine lettuce with lime vinaigrette and corn on the side These are also great cut into wedges for party appetizers
Cultural Note
Mexican pizzas draw inspiration from Tex Mex cuisine and casual American favorites like tacos and pizza Fast food chains made them famous but homemade versions turn out crispier fresher and more flavorful My family always joked that these taste better than anything in a drive thru
Recipe FAQs
- → How do you keep the tortillas crispy?
Lightly frying the tortillas in vegetable oil before assembling keeps them crisp and golden in the oven.
- → Can I use another type of cheese?
Yes, try cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend for delicious melting and flavor variations.
- → Is there a vegetarian option?
Skip the beef and add more beans or sautéed vegetables such as peppers, onions, or mushrooms.
- → What toppings go well with these pizzas?
Diced tomatoes, green onions, sliced jalapeños, avocado, or a dollop of sour cream are great choices.
- → Can these be made ahead?
Assemble pizzas up to the baking step, cover, refrigerate, then bake just before serving for best texture.