Homestyle Mexican Pizza with Taco Bell-Inspired Flavors (Print version)

Crispy layered Mexican pizzas with taco-seasoned beef, refried beans, red sauce, melted cheese, and fresh tomato.

# Ingredients:

For the crisp shells

01 - 8 small (6-inch) flour tortillas
02 - 2 tablespoons neutral oil
03 - 1/4 teaspoon fine salt

For the beef and beans

04 - 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
05 - 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
06 - 1/3 cup (80 ml) water
07 - 1 can (16 oz or 454 g) refried beans
08 - 1-2 tablespoons water, for loosening the beans

For topping

09 - 3/4 cup (180 ml) mild red enchilada sauce
10 - 3/4 cup (85 g) shredded cheddar cheese
11 - 3/4 cup (85 g) shredded Monterey Jack cheese
12 - 1 medium Roma tomato, finely diced
13 - 2 green onions, thinly sliced
14 - Sour cream, shredded lettuce, or pickled jalapenos, optional

# Instructions:

01 - Heat the oven to 425°F. Brush both sides of the tortillas lightly with oil, sprinkle with salt, and arrange on baking sheets. Set an oven-safe wire rack over them to keep them flat, then bake for 8-10 minutes until crisp and lightly golden.
02 - Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it into fine crumbles. Drain excess fat, then stir in taco seasoning and 1/3 cup water. Simmer for 3-5 minutes until thick and well coated.
03 - Heat the refried beans in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl with 1-2 tablespoons water. Stir until smooth and spreadable, but still thick.
04 - Place 4 crisp tortillas on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spread each with warm refried beans, add a thin layer of seasoned beef, and gently press a second crisp tortilla on top.
05 - Spread about 3 tablespoons enchilada sauce over each top shell. Sprinkle evenly with cheddar and Monterey Jack.
06 - Bake at 375°F for 5-7 minutes, or broil for 30-60 seconds, until the cheese melts and bubbles. Top with diced tomato and green onion. Rest 1 minute before slicing.

# Good to know:

01 - Best served right after baking while the shells are crisp.
02 - Prep the beef and toppings ahead, then assemble just before heating.
03 - Use tostada shells for a faster version.

Back