Homemade Mexican Pizza is one of my favorite ways to turn taco night into something a little more exciting. It’s layered with crispy tortillas, seasoned meat, creamy beans, and melty cheese—finished with fresh toppings for that perfect bite. I love making this at home because it’s easy, satisfying, and fun to build.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it gives me all the flavors of tacos and tostadas in a pizza-style format. The crispy base holds up well to the saucy toppings, and I get to add exactly what I like. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner, but flavorful enough to feel like a treat.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Ground beef
- Taco seasoning
- Water
- Refried beans
- Flour or corn tortillas
- Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
- Enchilada sauce or taco sauce
- Diced tomatoes
- Green onions, chopped
- Sliced black olives (optional)
- Vegetable oil for frying
Directions
- I start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Once it’s fully cooked, I drain any excess fat and stir in the taco seasoning with a splash of water. I let it simmer for a few minutes to develop the flavor.
- In another skillet, I heat a little oil and fry the tortillas one at a time until golden and crisp on both sides. I place them on paper towels to drain.
- To assemble, I take one tortilla and spread a layer of refried beans on it, followed by a spoonful of the seasoned beef and a sprinkle of cheese. I top it with another tortilla.
- On the top layer, I spread a little enchilada or taco sauce and sprinkle more shredded cheese.
- I place the assembled pizzas on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 8–10 minutes, just until the cheese on top melts and bubbles.
- Once out of the oven, I finish them with diced tomatoes, green onions, and olives if I’m using them. Then I let them cool for a couple of minutes before slicing and serving.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 35 minutes
Variations
Sometimes I use ground turkey or shredded chicken instead of beef. For a vegetarian option, I leave out the meat and use more beans and sautéed veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms. If I want extra spice, I top with jalapeños or drizzle with hot sauce.
Storage/Reheating
I keep any leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I use the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes so the tortillas stay crisp. Microwaving works too, but it makes the base softer.
FAQs
Can I use pre-made tostadas instead of frying tortillas?
Yes, I’ve done that before and it works great. They’re already crispy and save some prep time.
Can I make these ahead of time?
I prep all the ingredients ahead, but I wait to assemble and bake right before serving so the tortillas stay crisp.
What cheese works best?
I usually go with a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack. Anything that melts well and adds flavor will do the trick.
Do I have to use enchilada sauce?
No, I’ve used taco sauce or even salsa in a pinch. I just choose something with bold flavor and a smooth texture.
What do I serve with Mexican pizza?
I usually add a side of rice, guacamole, or a fresh salad. It’s also great with chips and salsa.
Conclusion
Homemade Mexican Pizza is a fun and flavorful twist on taco night. I love how easy it is to make and how versatile the toppings can be. Whether I’m keeping it simple or loading it up with extras, it’s always a hit at the table.
Print
Homemade Mexican Pizza
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Description
Homemade Mexican Pizza is a fun, flavorful twist on taco night—layered with crispy tortillas, seasoned ground beef, refried beans, melty cheese, and fresh toppings. This easy-to-make dinner is a family favorite and perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 can (15 oz) refried beans
- 8 flour or corn tortillas
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or blend)
- 1/2 cup enchilada sauce or taco sauce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain fat, stir in taco seasoning and water, and simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a separate skillet, heat oil and fry tortillas until crispy and golden on both sides. Drain on paper towels.
- Spread refried beans on one tortilla. Top with seasoned beef and cheese. Place another tortilla on top.
- Spread enchilada or taco sauce on top tortilla. Sprinkle with more cheese.
- Place pizzas on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from oven, top with diced tomatoes, green onions, and olives. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use pre-made tostadas for a shortcut.
- Ground turkey or shredded chicken can replace beef.
- Vegetarian option: skip meat and add sautéed veggies.
- Add jalapeños or hot sauce for heat.
- Best assembled right before baking to keep tortillas crispy.