Taco Bell Mexican Pizza Recipe: Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza is a cult favorite that brings together the best of two cuisines—crispy tortillas layered with seasoned meat, beans, cheese, and a zesty tomato sauce. Whether you’ve been missing it since it briefly disappeared from the menu or you’re just craving that signature crunch and flavor at home, this guide is for you.
We’ll walk you through the exact steps to recreate this fast food legend in your own kitchen. And trust us—it’s even better when it’s homemade.
Why Everyone Loves Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza
There’s something irresistible about Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza. Maybe it’s the crispy tortilla layers that mimic a pizza crust, or perhaps it’s the bold taco flavors topped with melted cheese and tangy sauce. Whatever the reason, this menu item became a fan favorite almost instantly. With its crunchy texture, savory fillings, and cheesy finish, it satisfies every craving in one bite.
It’s the perfect hybrid dish—part Mexican, part Italian, and all-American comfort food. Fans were so passionate about the Mexican Pizza that when Taco Bell discontinued it temporarily, the backlash was immediate. Social media exploded with petitions and pleas to bring it back. And now, you don’t have to wait in line or hope it’s still on the menu—you can make it at home whenever the craving hits.
Bringing the Restaurant Experience Home
Why settle for a drive-thru version when you can customize your own Mexican Pizza? Making it at home means you can tweak every ingredient—from how spicy the meat is to how much cheese you melt on top. You can make it healthier, gluten-free, vegan, or just extra cheesy. Plus, the process is fun and surprisingly simple. All it takes is a handful of ingredients, a little prep, and some oven magic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s start with the essentials. To make an authentic copycat Taco Bell Mexican Pizza, you’ll need a few basic pantry staples and toppings. The best part? Most of these are easy to find in any grocery store.
Main Ingredients
Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need for the core layers:
- Ground Beef (1 lb): Use lean ground beef for best results. You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken if preferred.
- Taco Seasoning (1 packet or homemade): To flavor the beef. You can make your own mix with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano.
- Refried Beans (1 can): Adds creaminess and body to the filling. Vegetarian or regular is fine.
- Flour Tortillas (8-inch, 6 pieces): These are the “pizza crust.” Flour tortillas crisp up nicely in the oven or on a pan.
- Mexican Blend Shredded Cheese (2 cups): A mix of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and others works best.
Recommended Toppings
- Enchilada Sauce or Taco Bell Red Sauce (1 cup): This gives the pizza its signature tangy flavor.
- Diced Tomatoes (1/2 cup): Fresh tomatoes add a juicy contrast.
- Sliced Black Olives (optional, 1/4 cup): These add saltiness and a little tang.
- Green Onions (chopped): Adds freshness and crunch.
- Jalapeños (optional): For that extra heat!
Optional Add-ons for a Personal Twist
- Hot Sauce or Taco Bell’s Diablo Sauce
- Sour Cream drizzle
- Avocado or Guacamole slices
- Lettuce (for garnish, not baked)
Tools and Equipment
- Skillet or Frying Pan: To brown the beef.
- Baking Sheet or Pizza Stone: For baking the pizzas.
- Oven or Air Fryer: Either method works for crisping and melting.
- Spatula and Mixing Bowls
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Mexican Pizza
Ready to start cooking? Let’s walk through each part of the process—from browning the beef to assembling the layers and getting that perfect melt on top.
Step 1: Preparing the Ground Beef
Start by heating a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add your ground beef and break it apart with a spatula. Cook until it’s fully browned, which takes about 6-8 minutes. Once browned, drain any excess fat. Add in your taco seasoning and a splash of water (usually about 1/3 cup), then stir to combine.
Let the beef simmer for 5-7 minutes until the seasoning is fully absorbed. This step is crucial—it’s where the flavor magic happens. Taste test and adjust with extra spices if needed. Set aside once it’s seasoned and sizzling.
Pro Tip: Want to make it vegetarian? Swap the beef with plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils and season the same way.
Step 2: Cooking the Tortillas to Crispy Perfection
The base of your Mexican Pizza needs to be sturdy and crispy—not soggy. There are two easy ways to crisp up your tortillas:
Oven Method:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly brush both sides of each tortilla with oil.
- Place them on a baking sheet and bake for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
Stovetop Method:
- Heat a non-stick pan with a small amount of oil.
- Cook each tortilla for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
Once done, let them cool slightly. They’ll firm up even more as they rest. You’ll need two tortillas per pizza—one for the base and one for the top.
Step 3: Creating the Layered Pizza Base
Now comes the fun part—building the Mexican Pizza! Grab one crispy tortilla and lay it flat on a baking sheet or pizza stone. This will serve as your bottom crust.
Start by spreading a generous layer of refried beans all over the tortilla. It’s easiest to warm the beans slightly so they spread more smoothly. Next, pile on a layer of your seasoned ground beef—make sure it’s evenly distributed to avoid soggy spots or uneven bites.
Once the beef is layered, place a second crispy tortilla on top. This creates the signature sandwich-style structure that makes Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza so unique. Press down gently to hold the layers together but not so hard that you crack the tortilla.
Optional tip: For extra cheesy goodness, sprinkle a tiny bit of shredded cheese between the layers before adding the top tortilla. This helps the two pieces stick together when baked.
Step 4: Spreading the Sauce and Toppings
With your pizza base assembled, it’s time to top it off—literally.
Take about 2 to 3 tablespoons of enchilada sauce (or Taco Bell red sauce, if you have it) and spread it over the top tortilla. Don’t go too heavy; you want enough to add flavor and moisture without making it soggy.
Now, sprinkle a generous handful of shredded Mexican blend cheese over the sauce. The more cheese, the better—this is your pizza topping, after all!
After the cheese, add your diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, and chopped green onions. If you like a kick, toss on some jalapeño slices. Customize it to your taste—this is where you make it your own.
Make sure everything is evenly spread for perfect bites in every slice.
Step 5: Baking and Melting the Cheese Just Right
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if you haven’t already. Place your fully assembled Mexican Pizza on a baking sheet or directly on a pizza stone for a crisper bottom.
Bake for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The edges of the tortilla should be golden brown and crisp, while the center stays slightly chewy under the toppings.
If you’re using an air fryer, preheat it to 375°F and cook the pizza for about 6 to 8 minutes. Keep an eye on it—air fryers tend to cook faster and hotter.
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it sit for 2-3 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes cutting easier.
Serving Tip: Use a pizza cutter or a very sharp knife and slice into quarters—just like they serve it at Taco Bell!
Pro Tips for the Best Mexican Pizza
Choosing the Right Tortillas
Not all tortillas are created equal. For the perfect crunch and flavor, opt for 8-inch flour tortillas—they’re the most similar to the ones Taco Bell uses. Avoid using corn tortillas as they tend to break or get soggy under the sauce.
If you want to go low-carb or gluten-free, you can use alternatives like almond flour or cassava flour tortillas, but expect a slightly different texture.
For extra crispiness, fry the tortillas in shallow oil instead of baking. Just be sure to drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil before assembling.
Flavor Enhancers and Seasonings
Want to elevate the flavor? Try these ideas:
- Add a dash of smoked paprika or chipotle powder to your taco seasoning for a smoky kick.
- Mix a little hot sauce or lime juice into your beans for extra tang.
- Grate fresh cheese instead of using pre-shredded. It melts better and has richer flavor.
Also, don’t forget the sauce. If you want to make Taco Bell’s red sauce from scratch, simmer tomato paste, water, vinegar, a pinch of cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin together for 10-15 minutes. It’s shockingly close to the real thing!
Nutritional Breakdown
Calories and Macros per Serving
Let’s break down what you’re really eating here. While this dish is loaded with flavor, it’s also on the indulgent side. Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional value per serving (based on one whole pizza made with beef and cheese):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 550–700 kcal |
| Protein | 20–25g |
| Carbohydrates | 40–50g |
| Fat | 30–35g |
| Fiber | 5–7g |
| Sodium | 900–1100mg |
The actual values will vary depending on your ingredients and portion sizes. Using leaner meats, less cheese, or low-sodium sauces can help cut down the calories and fat.
Healthier Alternatives and Substitutions
Want a lighter version without compromising taste? Here are a few simple swaps:
- Meat Alternatives: Replace beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles.
- Low-Fat Cheese: Use reduced-fat or part-skim cheese.
- Whole Wheat Tortillas: Adds more fiber and makes it more filling.
- Homemade Refried Beans: Control the salt and fat by making them yourself.
- Skip the Frying: Baking or air-frying tortillas reduces oil and calories.
You can even turn it into a salad-style pizza by serving the toppings on a bed of lettuce and broken tortilla chips instead of layered tortillas.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overloading with Ingredients
It’s tempting to pile on all your favorite toppings, but too many can ruin the structure and make the pizza soggy or unstable. Remember, each Mexican Pizza is built with only two tortillas. That means too much weight or moisture can turn it into a mess when slicing.
Stick to a thin layer of beans and meat on the base tortilla and be moderate with your sauce and toppings. You want a crisp, balanced bite—not a dripping overload.
Undercooking or Overcooking the Tortillas
Your tortilla is your crust, and just like with regular pizza, it makes all the difference.
Undercooked tortillas won’t hold up the layers and get mushy quickly. On the other hand, overcooked tortillas can turn rock-hard, making them difficult to bite through.
Always aim for a golden-brown crisp—whether baking, frying, or air-frying. And don’t skip the light oil coating; it gives that beautiful crunch you expect from Taco Bell’s version.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Fridge and Freezer Storage Tips
If you have leftovers (though that’s rare!), you can absolutely store your Mexican Pizza for later.
- Refrigerate: Place in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.
- Freeze: Wrap individual portions in foil or plastic wrap, then store in a zip-top freezer bag. They’ll last up to 2 months.
Pro tip: If you’re planning to freeze, don’t add the fresh toppings (like tomatoes or green onions) until after reheating for best results.
Reheating Without Losing the Crisp
Here’s how to get that fresh-out-of-the-oven texture when reheating:
- Oven: Preheat to 375°F and heat for 10–12 minutes on a baking sheet.
- Air Fryer: Heat at 350°F for 5–7 minutes. This gives the best crisp!
- Skillet: Use a non-stick pan on low heat and cover it. Flip after 3–4 minutes.
- Microwave (least recommended): It works, but the texture will be softer. Cover with a damp paper towel and microwave for 1–2 minutes.
Variations of the Taco Bell Mexican Pizza
Vegetarian Version
Skip the meat and double up on the refried beans, or swap in seasoned lentils, black beans, or a meat substitute like Beyond Meat. Load it up with veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for added texture.
Spicy Chicken Twist
Use shredded spicy chicken instead of ground beef. You can marinate chicken breasts in taco seasoning, bake or pan-fry them, then shred for a fiery twist.
Pair it with jalapeños, chipotle sauce, or even pepper jack cheese for a punch of flavor.
Vegan Mexican Pizza
Yes, you can go fully plant-based without sacrificing taste.
- Use vegan ground meat or beans.
- Dairy-free cheese alternatives melt beautifully now.
- Vegan tortillas (most are, but always check the label).
- Top with avocado, salsa verde, or dairy-free sour cream for a finishing touch.
This version is not only satisfying but often lighter and more gut-friendly.
Perfect Sides to Pair With
Nachos and Salsa
Simple, crunchy nachos with fresh salsa or pico de gallo are a natural pairing. You can make a mini nacho bar with queso, guac, and sour cream for dipping.
Guacamole and Sour Cream
A dollop of guacamole on the side makes everything taste fresher. Add a swirl of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top of your pizza slice for an extra creamy bite.
Mexican Street Corn (Elote)
Looking for a flavorful side that stands out? Elote (grilled corn slathered with mayo, cheese, chili powder, and lime) adds sweet, spicy, and tangy contrast to your crispy pizza.
FAQs about Taco Bell Mexican Pizza Recipe
Can I use store-bought taco seasoning?
Absolutely. Store-bought taco seasoning is convenient and works perfectly for this recipe. Just follow the packet instructions. For extra flavor, add cumin or smoked paprika.
What kind of tortillas are best?
Use 8-inch flour tortillas for that authentic Taco Bell taste and crispiness. Corn tortillas don’t crisp the same way and can fall apart.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free tortillas and check your taco seasoning and refried beans to ensure they’re gluten-free certified.
What sauce does Taco Bell use on their Mexican Pizza?
Taco Bell uses a mild red enchilada-style sauce—slightly tangy with hints of chili and tomato. You can replicate it with canned enchilada sauce or a homemade version using tomato paste, vinegar, and spices.
Can I prep everything ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook the beef, crisp the tortillas, and prep all the toppings in advance. Assemble and bake just before serving for the freshest taste.
Conclusion
Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza isn’t just a fast-food staple—it’s a comfort food classic that’s incredibly easy and fun to make at home. You get all the flavors you love, but with the flexibility to customize every bite.
From the crispy tortilla base to the layers of seasoned beef, creamy beans, spicy sauce, and melty cheese, it’s the ultimate fusion meal. Whether you’re feeding your family, hosting a game night, or just treating yourself to a Taco Bell-style dinner, this recipe delivers.
Once you make it once, you’ll never wait in line again.
