How to Make a Taco Bell Mexican Pizza Copycat at Home

If you’ve ever found yourself craving the crispy, cheesy, and perfectly layered delight known as Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza, you’re not alone. That iconic fusion of crunchy tortilla, savory beef, zesty refried beans, and melty cheese has won over taste buds far and wide. But what if you could skip the drive-thru and bring that fiesta right into your own kitchen? In this article, we’ll unveil the secrets to crafting a homemade Mexican Pizza copycat that rivals the fast-food favorite-complete with all the flavors and textures you love, tailored to your taste and made fresh from scratch. Get ready to roll up your sleeves and embark on a deliciously satisfying DIY adventure!

How to Make a Taco Bell Mexican Pizza Copycat at Home starts with perfecting the essential crispy pizza crust that delivers an irresistible crunch with every bite. Achieving that authentic texture means working with the right dough and baking techniques to create the sturdy base that can support the bold layers of creamy refried beans and savory seasoned beef without sogginess. Once the crust is set, layering becomes an art-balancing the rich, velvety refried beans with the juicy, spiced beef creates a mouthwatering foundation that’s both hearty and flavorful.

Next, mastering the signature blend of tangy pizza sauce and melted cheese elevates this copycat to a restaurant-quality experience. The sauce should be bright with a subtle kick, complementing the toppings without overwhelming them, while the cheese melts into a gooey, golden layer that ties all elements together. Finally, assembling and baking your Mexican Pizza with care ensures a perfect meld of flavors and textures-a crisp crust cushioned by layers of savory goodness and crowned with a finishing sprinkle of fresh garnishes.

Prep and Cook Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Yield

Serves 4 generous portions (one pizza per person)

Difficulty Level

Medium – Requires basic dough handling and layering skills

Ingredients

• For the Crispy Pizza Crust:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
• 1 tsp instant yeast
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup warm water (110°F)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• For the Refried Beans Layer:
• 1 cup canned refried beans, warmed
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• For the Seasoned Beef:
• 1/2 lb lean ground beef
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp salt
• For the Pizza Sauce:
• 1/2 cup canned tomato sauce
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• Pinch of salt
• Additional Toppings:
• 1 1/2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
• 1/4 cup diced green onions
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Sour cream and sliced jalapeños for garnish, optional

Instructions

1. Prepare the pizza dough: In a large bowl, combine the sifted flour, instant yeast, sugar, and salt. Gradually add warm water and olive oil, stirring until a soft dough forms. Knead on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
2. Shape and parbake the crust: Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Punch down the risen dough and divide into two equal portions. Roll out each portion into a 9-inch thin round on parchment paper. Transfer the dough on the parchment to a baking sheet or pizza stone. Bake for 5-7 minutes until just starting to crisp but not browned. Remove from oven.
3. Sauté and season the beef: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the ground beef, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook, breaking up the meat, until browned and fully cooked, about 6 minutes. Drain excess fat and set aside.
4. Warm and season the refried beans: In a small saucepan, heat the oil over medium heat. Stir in the refried beans, cumin, and garlic powder. Cook, stirring frequently, until warmed through and slightly creamy, about 3 minutes. Remove from heat.
5. Mix the tangy pizza sauce: In a bowl, whisk together tomato sauce, tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, oregano, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, and salt until smooth. Adjust seasoning for balance of tang and spice.
6. Assemble the Mexican pizza: Spread a generous layer of refried beans evenly over the parbaked crust. Spoon the seasoned beef on top of the beans, followed by a thin, even layer of pizza sauce. Sprinkle shredded cheese liberally over the top.
7. Bake until bubbly and crispy: Return the assembled pizza to the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly, and the crust edges are crisp and slightly browned.
8. Finish and garnish: Remove from oven and let sit for 2 minutes. Scatter diced green onions and chopped cilantro over the pizza. Add dollops of sour cream and sliced jalapeños for extra flair if desired.
9. Slice and serve: Use a sharp pizza cutter to slice into 4 pieces. Serve hot, enjoying the perfect contrast of crisp crust and bold fillings in every mouthful.

Tips for Success

• For an even crispier crust, sprinkle a thin layer of cornmeal on the parchment before rolling out the dough.
• If pressed for time, use store-bought pizza dough or pre-baked flatbreads as a shortcut.
• Adjust spice levels of the beef and sauce to your preference but keep the balance to maintain the signature Mexican Pizza taste.
• To make ahead, prepare and layer the pizza (without cheese), wrap tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
• Use a pizza stone or inverted baking sheet to evenly distribute heat and help create that iconic crisp bottom.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your homemade Mexican pizza with a side of guacamole, crisp tortilla chips, or a light Mexican-style salad featuring fresh tomatoes, avocado, and lime vinaigrette. Garnish each slice with fresh cilantro and a spoonful of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce for an added burst of flavor. Pair with a cold cerveza or a refreshing agua fresca for the ultimate casual feast.

Discover more easy homemade Mexican recipes to keep the fiesta going. For a deeper dive into pizza crust science and technique, visit Serious Eats’ definitive guide.

Q&A

Q&A: How to Make a Taco Bell Mexican Pizza Copycat at Home

Q1: What makes Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza so special?
A: The Mexican Pizza is a crispy, golden masterpiece featuring two layers of crunchy tortillas sandwiched with flavorful seasoned beef, refried beans, zesty tomato sauce, creamy queso, and a generous sprinkle of melted cheese-all topped with fresh diced tomatoes. It’s that perfect blend of crispy texture and savory, cheesy delight that keeps fans coming back.

Q2: Can I really recreate this iconic dish in my own kitchen?
A: Absolutely! With a handful of simple ingredients and a little love, you can craft a homemade version that rivals the original. The key is layering the right flavors and getting that tortilla crunch just right.

Q3: What ingredients do I need to make the copycat Mexican Pizza?
A: You’ll need:

• Flour tortillas (small to medium size)
• Ground beef or a plant-based alternative
• Refried beans
• Taco seasoning
• Tomato sauce or enchilada sauce
• Queso cheese or a creamy cheese blend
• Shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese
• Fresh diced tomatoes
• Cooking oil or spray for crisping

Q4: What’s the best way to get the tortillas crispy like Taco Bell’s?
A: The secret is lightly frying or baking the tortillas until they turn golden and crunchy but aren’t too brittle. Using a bit of oil sprayed or brushed on both sides before frying or baking helps achieve that satisfying crunch without greasiness.

Q5: How do I layer the Mexican Pizza for the perfect bite?
A: Start with a crispy tortilla base, spread a layer of refried beans, followed by seasoned beef, sauce, and a layer of cheese. Top this with another crispy tortilla, cover with tomato sauce or enchilada sauce, more cheese, and finish with fresh diced tomatoes after baking.

Q6: Can I customize the filling to suit dietary preferences?
A: Definitely! Swap ground beef for seasoned turkey, shredded chicken, or a plant-based crumble. Use vegan cheese and refried beans without lard for a vegetarian or vegan-friendly version. The layers make it easy to adapt for any taste.

Q7: How long should I bake the assembled Mexican Pizza?
A: Bake at around 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes or until the cheese melts beautifully and the pizza is heated through.

Q8: What sides or drinks pair well with a homemade Mexican Pizza?
A: Complement your creation with guacamole, salsa, or a side of tortilla chips. For drinks, a cold soda, iced tea, or a refreshing margarita complete the Mexican-inspired feast.

Q9: Any tips to elevate the copycat Mexican Pizza even more?
A: Try adding sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a zingy kick. A drizzle of sour cream or hot sauce on top takes your homemade Mexican Pizza to the next level!

Q10: Where can I find Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza sauce recipe?
A: While Taco Bell’s exact recipe is a secret, a mixture of tomato sauce, a splash of enchilada sauce, and a hint of chili powder or cumin closely mimics its delicious, tangy flavor.

Ready to bring a slice of Taco Bell’s magic home? Gather your ingredients and savor the crispy, cheesy goodness of your very own Mexican Pizza!

To Wrap It Up

Now that you’ve mastered the art of crafting your own Taco Bell Mexican Pizza copycat, the possibilities are endless. Whether you sprinkle on extra cheese, load up on spicy jalapeños, or experiment with your favorite homemade salsa, this recipe is your canvas for creativity. Not only have you captured the nostalgic flavors of a fast-food favorite, but you’ve also unlocked the satisfaction of making it fresh and just the way you like it-right in your own kitchen. So fire up your oven, gather your ingredients, and turn your next meal into a fiesta that’s as fun to make as it is to devour. ¡Buen provecho!