There’s something magical about the fusion of Mexican flavors with the beloved format of pizza. These Easy Mexican Pizzas bring together the best of both worlds in a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Crispy tortillas layered with savory refried beans, seasoned ground beef, and melty cheese create a delicious foundation for fresh toppings.
I developed this recipe after countless requests from friends who missed a similar item from a popular fast-food chain. My homemade version is not only tastier but allows you to customize each pizza to your family’s preferences while using ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
Why You’ll Love This
- Ready in just 45 minutes from start to finish – perfect for busy weeknights
- Customizable for picky eaters – everyone can add their preferred toppings
- Uses pantry staples and leftovers can easily be repurposed
- Crispy, crunchy texture with creamy, savory fillings
- Kid-friendly but sophisticated enough for adults to enjoy
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried cilantro
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 16 small fajita-size flour tortillas
- 1 can refried beans
- Taco sauce to taste
- 2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Diced tomatoes
- Chopped green onions
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with chopped onion until the meat is fully cooked and onion is softened, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
- Add salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, dried cilantro, cayenne, and minced garlic to the beef. Stir well and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat.
- Heat enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom of a separate skillet over medium heat. Fry tortillas one at a time for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
- Heat refried beans in a microwave or small saucepan until warm and easy to spread.
- Spread a layer of warm refried beans on half of the fried tortillas. Top with a scoop of seasoned ground beef and sprinkle with some shredded cheese.
- Place another fried tortilla on top of each assembled base. Spread taco sauce over the top tortilla and generously sprinkle with remaining shredded cheese.
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Place assembled Mexican pizzas on a baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from oven and immediately top with diced tomatoes and chopped green onions. Serve hot while the cheese is still melted.
Tips & Variations
- For extra crispiness, lightly fry the tortillas in oil for about 30 seconds per side before assembling.
- Substitute ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter option.
- Add a layer of guacamole or sliced avocado just before serving for creaminess.
- Make it spicy by adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture.
- Prep components ahead of time and assemble just before baking for a quick dinner solution.
- Use corn tortillas instead of flour for a gluten-free alternative (though they may be less sturdy).
Serving Suggestions
These Mexican Pizzas are delicious served with a simple side salad dressed with lime vinaigrette. For a more substantial meal, pair with Mexican rice or a cup of tortilla soup. Don’t forget to have extra salsa, guacamole, or hot sauce available at the table for dipping!
For a fun family dinner, set up a topping bar and let everyone customize their own pizza with their favorite Mexican-inspired toppings.
Notes
- Leftover pizzas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to maintain crispness.
- The tortillas should be golden and crisp at the edges when done – this provides the perfect textural contrast to the fillings.
- Pat the tomatoes dry with paper towels before topping to prevent sogginess.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
You can prepare the components (meat, beans) up to 2 days ahead, but assemble and bake just before serving for the best texture.
How do I prevent my tortillas from getting soggy?
Briefly toasting or frying the tortillas before assembly creates a barrier that helps prevent sogginess. Also, make sure your beans aren’t too watery.
Can I freeze these Mexican Pizzas?
Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Wrap individually in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 1 month. Bake from frozen, adding 5-7 minutes to the cooking time.
What’s the best cheese to use?
A Mexican blend works great, but you can also use cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a combination. Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties.
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