Copycat Taco Bell Mexican Pizza

### **Instructions:**

#### **1. Prepare the Meat:**
Start by cooking the ground beef (or chicken) in a skillet over medium heat. Break up the meat with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned and fully cooked, drain excess fat and add the Taco Bell taco seasoning (or your homemade seasoning). Follow the seasoning packet instructions, typically adding a bit of water and simmering until the meat is well coated and the mixture thickens.

#### **2. Fry the Tortillas:**
To get that signature Taco Bell crunch, lightly fry the flour tortillas. Heat a small amount of vegetable oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, place one tortilla in the pan and fry for about 1-2 minutes on each side until it becomes crispy and golden brown. Repeat the process with the second tortilla, then remove both tortillas and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

#### **3. Build the Pizza Layers:**
Now it’s time to assemble the Mexican Pizza. Start by spreading a thin layer of refried beans onto one of the fried tortillas, making sure to cover the surface evenly. Next, spoon some of the seasoned ground beef mixture on top of the beans.

Place the second tortilla on top of the beef and beans, pressing down gently to secure it in place.

#### **4. Add the Sauce and Cheese:**
On top of the second tortilla, spread a generous layer of Mexican-style pizza sauce (or mild taco sauce) to mimic the Taco Bell flavor. Sprinkle a mix of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese generously over the sauce. The blend of cheeses will melt perfectly and form that signature gooey, cheesy texture.

#### **5. Bake to Perfection:**
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the assembled Mexican pizza on a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the pizza is slightly browned on the edges.

#### **6. Add Final Toppings:**
Once out of the oven, it’s time to add those finishing touches. Sprinkle chopped onions, sliced black olives, and sliced jalapeños (if you like a little heat). A dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro add a refreshing, cool contrast to the dish.

#### **7. Slice and Serve:**
Carefully slice your Copycat Taco Bell Mexican Pizza into quarters or eighths (depending on how hungry you are). Serve it with extra sour cream or salsa on the side for dipping.

### **Tips for the Best Copycat Taco Bell Mexican Pizza:**

– **Refried Beans:** You can use store-bought refried beans or make your own if you prefer a fresher taste. Adding a bit of garlic powder and cumin to the refried beans can give them an extra boost of flavor.
– **Ground Beef Alternatives:** If you’re looking for a healthier option, swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. You can also use plant-based ground meat if you prefer a vegetarian version.
– **Crispy Tortillas:** The key to Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza is that crispy base, so don’t skip the frying step. For an even healthier alternative, you can bake the tortillas at 400°F for about 5 minutes per side until crispy.
– **Spice Level:** Adjust the heat level to your liking. Add extra jalapeños or use spicy taco sauce if you like things hot.

### **Why This Copycat Mexican Pizza Works:**

The combination of crispy tortillas, savory ground beef, creamy refried beans, tangy sauce, and melted cheese creates the perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s a fast, fun, and customizable recipe that replicates the beloved Taco Bell Mexican Pizza while giving you control over the ingredients.

Whether you’re making it for dinner, a party, or just a quick snack, this homemade version is sure to bring back all the nostalgic Taco Bell flavors while satisfying your cravings. Plus, it’s a great way to recreate a fast food favorite without having to leave your home!

### **Conclusion:**

Making a Copycat Taco Bell Mexican Pizza is easier than you think, and it’s a fun way to indulge in a beloved fast food item without the drive-thru wait. With simple ingredients and a few steps, you can enjoy the crunchy, cheesy, and flavorful layers of this iconic dish from the comfort of your kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, get ready to indulge, and enjoy a delicious homemade Mexican pizza that’s better than the original!