Copycat Taco Bell Mexican Pizza
Craving that nostalgic, fast-food favorite without the drive-thru line? This Copycat Taco Bell Mexican Pizza delivers all the bold, savory flavors of the original—right from your own kitchen.
With layers of crispy tortillas, seasoned beef, creamy refried beans, zesty enchilada sauce, and melted cheese, it’s a satisfying fusion of taco and pizza in one irresistible bite.
Topped with fresh veggies and a dollop of sour cream, it’s not just a copy—it might just be even better than the real thing. Perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or whenever the craving hits.
Why People Will Love This Copycat Taco Bell Mexican Pizza:
Layers of nostalgic flavor: This dish perfectly recreates the beloved Taco Bell classic, delivering comfort and familiarity with every bite—especially for fans of the original.
Crispy meets creamy: The contrast between the crunchy fried tortillas and the smooth refried beans and melty cheese creates a rich and satisfying mouthfeel.
Flavor-packed and fully loaded: Seasoned ground beef, zesty enchilada sauce, and a Mexican cheese blend come together to create bold, punchy flavors that are hard to resist.
Customizable to taste: Whether you love it spicy, vegetarian, or piled high with fresh toppings, this recipe is easy to tailor to individual preferences.
Fun and shareable: It’s a playful, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or game nights—easy to slice and even easier to love.
Better than takeout: Homemade means fresher ingredients, more generous portions, and full control over seasoning, making this version more satisfying than the fast-food original.
Key Ingredients:
Ground beef: Rich, savory, and seasoned with bold taco spices, the beef provides a hearty and flavorful foundation that anchors the entire pizza.
Flour tortillas: Lightly fried until golden and crisp, these act as the pizza’s “crust,” adding a flaky, crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy layers inside.
Refried beans: Creamy, earthy, and comforting, the beans bring warmth and richness, binding the base layers together with every bite.
Enchilada sauce: Slightly smoky and tangy, this sauce adds depth, spice, and a touch of acidity that balances the richness of the cheese and beef.
Mexican cheese blend: A melty mix of cheeses—usually cheddar, Monterey Jack, and others—adds creaminess and a mild sharpness that melts into every layer.
Fresh toppings (tomatoes, green onions, olives): These bright, juicy elements bring freshness, crunch, and a pop of color, elevating the dish from indulgent to vibrant.
Expert Tips:
Fry tortillas to the perfect crisp:
Don’t rush the frying process—medium heat and frequent flipping will ensure the tortillas become golden and crisp without burning or becoming too greasy. Drain them well on paper towels to maintain crunch.
Warm the beans before spreading:
Gently heat the refried beans to make them more spreadable. This prevents the crispy tortilla from tearing and allows for a more even layer without tugging or pulling.
Layer strategically for structure:
Keep the beans on the bottom layer to act as a “glue” for the beef and top tortilla. This stabilizes the base and prevents slipping when cutting or serving.
Use freshly grated cheese:
Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Grate your own Mexican blend (or cheddar and Monterey Jack) for richer flavor and better meltability.
Bake briefly but hot:
After assembling the pizzas, bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes—just enough to melt the cheese and heat everything through, without overbaking the tortillas.
Add toppings after baking for texture and freshness:
Wait to add diced tomatoes, green onions, olives, or sour cream until after the pizzas come out of the oven. This keeps those elements vibrant, crisp, and visually appealing.
Double the beef or beans for a heartier version:
If you want a thicker, more filling pizza, you can easily double the meat or bean layer—just ensure the tortillas are sturdy enough to hold up.
Copycat Taco Bell Mexican Pizza
Ingredients
For the pizzas:
1 lb ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning
¾ cup water
1 cup vegetable oil
8 small flour tortillas
1 (15 oz) can refried beans
1 (10 oz) can enchilada sauce
2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
Toppings:
Diced tomatoes
Sliced green onions
Sliced black olives
Sour cream
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400°F. In a large pan, cook and crumble the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned.
Drain any excess grease and return the beef to the pan. Stir in the taco seasoning and ¾ cup water. Bring to a simmer and cook until the mixture thickens.
In a separate skillet, heat 1 cup of vegetable oil over medium heat. Fry each tortilla for about 3-4 minutes, flipping frequently, until golden and crisp. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Warm up the refried beans in a microwave-safe bowl to make them easier to spread.
Assemble the pizzas: Spread a layer of refried beans onto one fried tortilla, followed by a portion of seasoned beef. Place another crispy tortilla on top.
Add sauce and cheese: Spoon about 2 tablespoons of enchilada sauce over the top tortilla and sprinkle with shredded cheese. Repeat for all pizzas.
Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as diced tomatoes, green onions, olives, and a dollop of sour cream.
Important Notes When Making This Copycat Taco Bell Mexican Pizza:
Tortilla texture makes or breaks the dish:
The crispiness of the tortillas is essential—soft or under-fried tortillas will make the pizza soggy and difficult to handle. Always drain well after frying, and don’t stack hot tortillas on top of each other.
Balance moisture content:
Enchilada sauce, refried beans, and cooked beef all carry moisture. Keep layers thin and well-drained to prevent a soggy bottom tortilla. Less is more when it comes to saucing the top.
Use small tortillas for structure:
Standard 8-inch flour tortillas mimic the fast-food version best and are easier to crisp and stack. Larger tortillas may lose shape or sag in the center when baked.
Don’t skip the baking step:
Even though everything is pre-cooked, baking the assembled pizza is key. It helps fuse the layers, melt the cheese, and activate the rich aromas of the sauce and toppings.
Customize toppings mindfully:
While the base is indulgent and rich, toppings should offer contrast—fresh tomatoes, crisp green onions, and briny olives cut through the heaviness and add color, acidity, and brightness.
Serve immediately for best results:
These pizzas are best enjoyed right out of the oven while the tortillas are still crisp and the cheese is gooey. Delaying too long can lead to softening and separation between layers.
How To Enjoy Copycat Taco Bell Mexican Pizza After Cooking
Let it rest briefly for clean slicing
After removing the pizzas from the oven, let them rest for 2–3 minutes. This allows the melted cheese and sauce to slightly set, making it easier to slice without the layers sliding apart.
Cut with a sharp pizza cutter or chef’s knife
Use a very sharp knife or a pizza cutter to cut the pizzas into quarters or eighths. A dull blade can crack the crispy tortilla or drag the toppings, ruining the structure.
Top just before serving for freshness
Add diced tomatoes, green onions, olives, and a swirl of sour cream right before serving. This keeps the fresh toppings crisp and flavorful, adding brightness to balance the rich, cheesy layers.
Offer extra sauce or dips on the side
For added flavor, serve with small bowls of sour cream, salsa, guacamole, or hot sauce. These customizable dips turn each bite into a build-your-own experience.
Reheating leftovers
To reheat without losing crunch, use an oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes. Avoid microwaving—it softens the tortillas and dulls the texture.
Make it interactive for groups
Serve as a DIY pizza bar for parties or game nights. Let everyone assemble their own toppings before baking and personalize with their favorite flavors.
Pair with sides and drinks
Complement the dish with a fresh salad, Mexican rice, or chips and salsa. For drinks, a chilled soda, michelada, or sparkling lime water adds the perfect refreshment to cut through the richness.
Nutrition Information:
For 1 serving of the Copycat Taco Bell Mexican Pizza
Assuming the recipe makes 4 full pizzas, each cut into 4 slices (16 servings total). The values below are per slice:
Nutrition (per slice):
Calories: 245 kcal | Total Fat: 15.6 g | Saturated Fat: 6.2 g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5.4 g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.3 g | Cholesterol: 34 mg | Sodium: 430–520 mg (depending on seasoning and toppings) | Total Carbohydrates: 15.8 g | Dietary Fiber: 2.1 g | Sugars: 2.3 g | Protein: 11.1 g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
Yes, but with caution. Corn tortillas can be used for a gluten-free version, but they are more delicate and may break when layered or fried. For best results, lightly toast or fry them until firm and crispy before assembling.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Simply omit the ground beef and double the refried beans, or replace the beef with plant-based crumbles or sautéed veggies like mushrooms and zucchini. The rest of the ingredients and flavor will still shine.
Can I bake the tortillas instead of frying them?
Yes, for a lighter version. Brush each tortilla lightly with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy. They won’t be quite as golden as fried, but still satisfyingly crisp.
What’s the best way to store and reheat leftovers?
Store tightly wrapped in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes to regain crispness. Avoid the microwave, as it will soften the tortillas and make the layers soggy.
Can I prep the components in advance?
Yes! You can cook the beef, shred the cheese, chop toppings, and even fry the tortillas a few hours ahead. Store each component separately, and assemble and bake the pizzas just before serving for best texture.
How do I keep the tortillas crispy after frying?
Drain them well and cool flat. After frying, place each tortilla on a paper towel–lined surface in a single layer (not stacked). This prevents steam buildup, which can make them soggy. You can also place them in a warm oven (200°F) to keep crisp while preparing other ingredients.
What’s the best way to evenly spread the beans without tearing the tortilla?
Warm the refried beans slightly. Heating them in the microwave for 30–60 seconds softens their texture, making them easier to spread. Use the back of a spoon or a small spatula, working gently from the center outward.
How thick should I layer the ingredients between tortillas?
Keep it balanced. Use about 2–3 tablespoons each of beans and seasoned beef per pizza layer. Too much filling can cause the top tortilla to slide or the pizza to fall apart when cutting.
Can I make mini versions for appetizers or parties?
Yes! Use street taco–sized tortillas (4–5 inches) and reduce the filling accordingly. They’re perfect for bite-sized snacks and make a great party platter when sliced into wedges.
Is it necessary to bake the assembled pizzas after layering?
Yes, it’s essential. Baking ensures the cheese melts completely and the layers fuse together, giving you that cohesive texture. Even if all the components are pre-cooked, this step brings everything together.