This homemade version of Taco Bell’s iconic Mexican Pizza layers crispy tortillas with seasoned ground beef, refried beans, zesty enchilada-style sauce, and melted cheese for a flavorful, satisfying dish. It’s baked until golden and crisp, then topped with your favorite garnishes like green onions, sour cream, or jalapeños. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner, weekend treat, or game-day favorite, this recipe captures all the crave-worthy elements of the original — without the drive-thru.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delivers the same delicious flavor as Taco Bell’s version — but fresher.

• Super easy to make with common pantry ingredients.

• Customizable with your favorite toppings, sauces, and proteins.

• Great for feeding a family or group, and ideal for meal prep.

• Crispy, cheesy, saucy, and satisfying in every bite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 8 small flour tortillas (about 6–8 inches in diameter)

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 for best flavor and juiciness)

• 1 cup refried beans (canned or homemade)

• 1 cup enchilada sauce (mild, medium, or spicy depending on preference)

• 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade mix: chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and salt)

• ½ cup diced white or yellow onion

• 1 garlic clove, finely minced

• ½ cup diced tomatoes or tomato salsa (drained if watery)

• 1½ cups shredded cheese (Mexican blend, cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a combo)

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for toasting tortillas)

• 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• Optional toppings: sliced black olives, pickled jalapeños, sour cream, cilantro, or hot sauce

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment or foil.

2. Toast the tortillas: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil and lightly toast each tortilla on both sides until golden and crisp (about 1–2 minutes per side). Set aside.

3. Cook the beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook diced onions in a drizzle of oil until soft (about 2–3 minutes). Add minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds.

4. Add the ground beef. Break it up with a spoon and cook until fully browned (about 6–8 minutes). Drain any excess grease.

5. Stir in taco seasoning and 2 tablespoons of water. Add the diced tomatoes or salsa. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until mixture is thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Assemble the pizzas:

   • Lay four toasted tortillas on the prepared baking sheet.

   • Spread each with about 2 tablespoons of refried beans.

   • Spoon a layer of seasoned beef mixture on top.

   • Add a thin layer of enchilada sauce over the meat.

   • Sprinkle about 2–3 tablespoons of shredded cheese on top.

   • Place another tortilla on top to form a sandwich.

   • Spread a small spoonful of enchilada sauce on the top tortilla and sprinkle more cheese over it.

7. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and tortillas are crisp.

8. Remove from oven and let rest for 2 minutes.

9. Slice into quarters using a pizza cutter or sharp knife.

10. Garnish with green onions, sour cream, jalapeños, or other toppings of your choice. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

• Serves: 4 (1 full pizza per person)

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 15 minutes

• Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Chicken Mexican Pizza: Swap ground beef for shredded rotisserie chicken mixed with taco seasoning.

• Vegetarian version: Leave out the meat and double the refried beans or use a plant-based ground meat alternative.

• Spicy version: Use hot enchilada sauce, add cayenne pepper to the beef, or top with jalapeños.

• Low-carb: Use low-carb or keto tortillas and reduced-fat cheese.

• Double layer: Add a middle tortilla layer with beans and cheese for an extra-stacked pizza.

• Cheese swap: Try pepper jack, queso blanco, or vegan cheese alternatives.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: Wrap individual pizza portions in foil and freeze for up to 1 month.

• Reheating: Warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes or until heated through. To keep the tortilla crisp, avoid microwaving. A toaster oven works well for single slices.

FAQs

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?

You can, but they’re smaller and more delicate. Lightly frying or toasting them helps keep their structure.

What can I substitute for enchilada sauce?

You can use tomato sauce mixed with taco seasoning, salsa, or even pizza sauce for a different flavor.

Do I have to toast the tortillas before baking?

Toasting ensures they stay crispy after baking. You can skip it, but the result will be softer and less crunchy.

Can I add beans on both tortilla layers?

Yes — spreading beans on both the bottom and top tortilla adds more flavor and keeps them from drying out.

Can I use pre-cooked taco meat?

Absolutely. If you have leftover taco meat, use it directly in place of the ground beef mixture.

How can I make this dish milder for kids?

Use mild enchilada sauce and skip any hot spices or jalapeños. You can also reduce the taco seasoning.

How do I keep the tortillas from getting soggy?

Make sure all fillings aren’t too watery and that tortillas are pre-toasted. Bake until golden and crisp.

Can I prep this ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the beef and toast the tortillas ahead. Assemble just before baking for best texture.

What type of cheese melts best for this recipe?

A Mexican blend or cheddar melts well and adds flavor. Monterey Jack and Colby Jack also work great.

What should I serve with Mexican pizza?

Serve with Mexican rice, chips and salsa, guacamole, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Making your own Copycat Taco Bell Mexican Pizza is easier than you might think — and even more delicious when made at home. With crispy layers, flavorful beef, creamy beans, and melted cheese, it’s a guaranteed hit for any occasion. Whether you’re recreating a fast-food favorite or just trying something new, this dish brings big flavor with minimal effort.