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Ever since I cracked the code on making Taco Bell's Mexican Pizza at home it's become our family's favorite Friday night treat. That perfect mix of crispy tortillas seasoned meat melty cheese and fresh toppings brings all the restaurant flavor right to my kitchen. Best part? We can customize it exactly how we like.
Why This Works So Well
I love how quick and easy this is to throw together perfect for those busy nights when takeout sounds tempting. Using fresh ingredients makes it taste even better than the original and my wallet's happier too. Plus everyone gets to add their favorite toppings making dinner fun.
What You'll Need
- Oil: I use avocado oil it handles high heat beautifully.
- Tortillas: Eight inch flour ones work just like the original.
- Ground Beef: Get the good stuff it makes a difference.
- Fajita Seasoning: Any brand you love works great.
- Salsa: Nice and chunky or try enchilada sauce.
- Refried Beans: Taco Bell brand tastes just like theirs.
- Cheese Blend: That melty Mexican mix is perfect.
- Toppings: Fresh tomatoes green onions black olives make it pretty.
Let's Make It Together
- Get Those Tortillas Ready
- Fry them until golden and crispy drain on paper towels they'll be our perfect base.
- Season That Meat
- Brown your beef with fajita spices mix in salsa and beans until everything's hot and happy.
- Build Your Pizza
- Layer meat mixture one tortilla cheese another tortilla more sauce and cheese on top.
- Time to Bake
- Pop it in a hot oven just until that cheese gets all melty and bubbly.
- Make It Pretty
- Add your favorite toppings cut it up serve while it's hot.
Keep It Fresh
Pop any leftovers in the fridge they'll stay good about 5 days. When you're ready for more heat them in the oven or air fryer gets that crunch back. Skip the microwave though makes the tortillas soggy.
Quick Answers
Want it spicier? Use hot salsa or add some jalapeños. Like extra crispy tortillas? Give them a quick bake first. Make it vegetarian by swapping in black beans or plant-based meat. Top it however you like that's the beauty of making it at home.
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Kitchen Helpers
Grab your favorite skillet for the meat some tongs make handling those hot tortillas easy. Line your baking sheets with foil makes cleanup a breeze. Having the right tools makes everything smoother.
Make It Your Own
Try ground turkey if you're watching calories or plant-based meat works great too. Fresh grated cheese melts like a dream. I love adding dollops of sour cream maybe some fresh guacamole on top.
Perfect Every Time
Stick with flour tortillas they're just like the original. Get them nice and crispy before adding toppings that's what gives you that perfect crunch we all love.
Plan Ahead
Make your meat mixture ahead keeps in the fridge three days. When you're ready just warm it up build your pizzas fresh takes no time at all.
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Save Some For Later
The meat freezes beautifully up to three months. Build everything fresh when you're ready to eat keeps those tortillas crispy and perfect.
Sauce It Up
Mix salsa with enchilada sauce creates something special. Add your favorite spices maybe some smoky paprika makes it uniquely yours.
Complete The Meal
Serve with fresh guacamole some Mexican rice beans on the side. Makes taco night feel extra special. Perfect for casual dinners or weekend get togethers.
Kid Friendly Fun
Keep it mild for little ones let them add their own toppings. My kids love making faces with olives and cheese makes dinner fun for everyone.
Better Than Drive Thru
There's something special about making this beloved favorite at home. Fresher healthier and way more fun than waiting in line. Plus the memories you make cooking together? Priceless.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I prepare these ahead?
Prep components ahead but assemble and bake just before serving to keep tortillas crispy.
- → How do I keep tortillas crispy?
Fry until golden brown and drain well on paper towels. Don't add too much salsa which can make them soggy.
- → Can I use corn tortillas?
Flour tortillas work best as they get crispier. Corn tortillas may break when assembling.
- → What's the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in oven or toaster oven to maintain crispiness. Microwave will make tortillas soft.
- → Can I make this vegetarian?
Skip meat and double beans, or use plant-based ground meat substitute with same seasonings.
Conclusion
Fast food favorite made at home by layering fried tortillas with seasoned beef, beans, salsa and cheese.