Homemade Mexican Pizza 🍕🌮

Introduction

Homemade Mexican pizza is a family favorite in our household, especially during busy weeknights when everyone craves something quick yet delicious. The combination of seasoned beef, creamy refried beans, and a blend of cheeses layered between crispy tortillas is irresistible. Each bite is a delightful mix of flavors and textures, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike. Whenever I make this recipe, it doesn’t take long for the entire pizza to disappear. It’s not just a meal; it’s a fun and interactive dining experience that brings everyone together.

Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning
• 1/2 cup water
• 6 medium flour tortillas
• 1 can (16 ounces) refried beans
• 1 can (10 ounces) red enchilada sauce
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded pepper-jack cheese
• 1 Roma tomato, diced
• 1 green onion, diced
• 1 small can sliced black olives

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray two baking sheets with non-stick spray and arrange 3 tortillas on each sheet.
2. Crisp the Tortillas: Bake the tortillas for 3-5 minutes, then flip them over and bake for an additional 2-5 minutes, until they are golden and crispy. Once done, set them aside.
3. Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook and crumble the ground beef until browned. Drain the excess grease.
4. Season the Beef: Add the taco seasoning and water to the cooked beef. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, then set aside.
5. Warm the Beans: In a microwave-safe bowl, warm the refried beans until they are easy to spread.
6. Assemble the Pizzas:

• Spread a thin layer of refried beans on one tortilla.
• Top it with one-third of the seasoned beef mixture.
• Place another tortilla on top of that.
• Spread about 3 tablespoons of red enchilada sauce on the top tortilla.
• Sprinkle with a mixture of cheddar and pepper-jack cheese.
• Add diced tomatoes, green onions, and sliced black olives.
• Repeat this layering process with the remaining tortillas to create three Mexican pizzas in total.

1. Bake the Pizzas: Place the assembled pizzas in the oven and bake for 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. Serve: Allow the pizzas to cool slightly before slicing and serving. Enjoy your homemade Mexican pizza warm!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 450 kcal

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes

How to Serve

• Slice the Mexican pizza into wedges.
• Serve with your favorite toppings or sides, such as:
• Sour cream
• Guacamole
• Salsa
• Jalapeños
• Fresh cilantro

Additional Tips

1. Meat Variations: You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat substitute for a vegetarian option.
2. Spice it Up: Add more spices or chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture for an extra kick.
3. Cheese Choices: Experiment with different types of cheese, like mozzarella or feta, to give it a unique flavor.
4. Crispier Tortillas: For an even crispier crust, you can pan-fry the tortillas in a bit of oil before baking them.
5. Add Veggies: Enhance the nutritional value by adding more vegetables such as bell peppers, corn, or spinach.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground beef with black beans or lentils, and add more vegetables for a hearty meal.
• Breakfast Mexican Pizza: Top the pizzas with scrambled eggs and avocado for a delicious breakfast option.
• Dessert Pizza: For a fun twist, make a dessert version using sweetened cream cheese, chocolate chips, and fruits.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a side salad or corn salad for a complete meal.
• Serve with a refreshing drink like horchata or a classic margarita for an authentic Mexican dining experience.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the assembled but unbaked pizzas. Wrap them tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, remove from the freezer and bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?

• Yes, corn tortillas can be used, but they may be more delicate and break easily.

1. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

• Use gluten-free tortillas and ensure that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

1. What can I use instead of refried beans?

• Black bean puree or hummus can be good alternatives.

1. Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

• Substitute cheese with dairy-free cheese alternatives and use a dairy-free sour cream for serving.

1. How do I keep the tortillas from getting soggy?

• Baking the tortillas before assembling helps maintain their crispiness.

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead and assemble the pizzas right before baking.

1. What other toppings can I add?

• You can add avocado, fresh cilantro, or a drizzle of lime juice for added flavor.

1. Can I make this recipe in a skillet?

• Yes, you can cook everything in a skillet and layer it similar to a lasagna for a skillet version.

1. How long does it take to bake from frozen?

• Bake frozen pizzas at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.

1. What sides pair well with Mexican pizza?
   • Consider serving with rice, beans, or a fresh garden salad.

Conclusion

Homemade Mexican pizza is not just a delicious meal; it’s a fun way to bring family and friends together. With its layers of savory beef, creamy beans, and melty cheese, it satisfies all those taco cravings in a unique way. Whether you’re preparing for a casual dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a slice (or two) of this delightful homemade treat!

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