Introduction
Homemade Mexican Pizza is one of those recipes that feels nostalgic, indulgent, and surprisingly simple to recreate in your own kitchen. With crispy tortillas, seasoned ground beef, refried beans, and plenty of melted cheese, this dish brings together the best elements of tacos and pizza in one satisfying bite. It is bold, savory, and layered with textures that make every slice irresistible.
I started making this at home when I wanted full control over the ingredients and spice level, and it quickly became a favorite. Unlike takeout versions, this homemade approach allows you to adjust everything to your taste, from the seasoning to the crispiness of the tortillas. It is also incredibly versatile, working just as well for a casual family dinner as it does for sharing with friends. Once you try it fresh from the oven, it is hard to go back to any other version.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Mexican Pizza is quick to assemble, budget-friendly, and packed with familiar flavors. The crispy tortilla base contrasts beautifully with the rich beef and beans, while the melted cheese ties everything together. It is customizable, freezer-friendly, and perfect for weeknights.
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Homemade Mexican Pizza (Crispy Layers, Bold Flavors, Easy at Home)
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 pizzas (4 servings)
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A homemade version of the classic Mexican pizza made with crispy tortillas layered with seasoned beans, tangy sauce, and melted cheese, finished with fresh toppings for a bold and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 4 flour tortillas (8-inch)
- 1 cup refried beans
- 1 cup shredded Mexican-blend cheese
- 1/2 cup enchilada sauce or taco sauce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Brush both sides of the tortillas lightly with olive oil.
- Place tortillas directly on the oven rack or a baking sheet and bake for 5–7 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
- In a small bowl, mix refried beans with cumin, chili powder, and salt.
- Spread a thin layer of seasoned beans over two of the tortillas.
- Place the remaining tortillas on top to form two layered pizzas.
- Spread enchilada or taco sauce evenly over the top tortillas.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the sauce.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes until the cheese is fully melted.
- Remove from oven and top with diced tomatoes, olives, and green onions.
- Slice and serve warm.
Notes
- You can add jalapeños for extra heat.
- Use corn tortillas for a more traditional flavor.
- Let the pizzas cool slightly before slicing for cleaner cuts.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Flour tortillas
Flour tortillas create the crispy base and layered structure of this pizza. When baked or lightly fried, they become golden and sturdy enough to hold the toppings.
Ground beef
Ground beef provides a rich, savory filling. It absorbs spices well and adds heartiness to every slice.
Taco seasoning
Taco seasoning brings warmth, spice, and classic Mexican-inspired flavor. You can adjust the heat level depending on your preference.
Refried beans
Refried beans add creaminess and help bind the layers together. They also balance the spices from the beef.
Pizza sauce or enchilada sauce
This layer adds moisture and tang. Enchilada sauce gives a deeper, slightly smoky flavor, while pizza sauce keeps it mild.
Shredded Mexican-blend cheese
A blend of cheeses melts evenly and provides a balanced mix of sharpness and creaminess.
Cheddar cheese
Cheddar adds extra richness and a familiar, comforting flavor.
Diced tomatoes
Tomatoes add freshness and a slight acidity that cuts through the richness.
Sliced green onions
Green onions provide a mild bite and fresh finish.
Black olives
Black olives add a salty contrast and classic pizza-style texture.
Vegetable oil
Oil helps crisp the tortillas evenly before assembling.
Directions
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Lightly brush both sides of the tortillas with vegetable oil and place them on a baking tray. Bake for 5 to 7 minutes per side until lightly golden and crisp. Set aside.
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat, then stir in the taco seasoning with a small splash of water. Simmer for a few minutes until thick and well coated.
Spread a thin layer of refried beans over one crispy tortilla. Top with seasoned beef, then spoon over a small amount of sauce. Sprinkle with shredded cheese. Place a second tortilla on top and repeat with sauce, cheese, tomatoes, olives, and green onions.
Bake the assembled pizza for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it cool slightly before slicing.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) to maintain crispness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it softens the tortillas.
Variations and Customizations
Homemade Mexican Pizza is highly adaptable. You can substitute ground chicken or turkey for a lighter version without sacrificing flavor. For a vegetarian option, seasoned black beans or lentils work very well.
Cheese choices can be adjusted to suit your taste. Pepper Jack adds heat, while mozzarella creates a milder, stretchy texture. Adding jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce increases spice for those who enjoy heat.
You can also experiment with toppings. Corn, bell peppers, or sautéed onions add sweetness and texture. For extra crunch, finish with shredded lettuce after baking. If you prefer a gluten-free version, use certified gluten-free tortillas.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
Approximate nutrition per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480 kcal |
| Protein | 26 g |
| Carbohydrates | 36 g |
| Fat | 27 g |
| Saturated Fat | 12 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 820 mg |
Expert Tips & Customizations
Crisp the tortillas well
Properly crisped tortillas prevent sogginess and hold the layers together.
Do not overload toppings
Too many toppings can make slicing difficult and affect texture.
Balance the sauce
Use sauce sparingly to avoid overpowering the other flavors.
Rest before slicing
Allowing the pizza to cool slightly helps it hold its shape.
FAQs
Can I make this Mexican Pizza ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the components ahead and bake just before serving.
Can I freeze Mexican Pizza?
It is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the cooked beef filling separately.
What tortillas work best?
Flour tortillas provide the best structure and crispness.
Can I make it spicier?
Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or extra chili seasoning.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, simply reduce the spice level if needed.
Can I bake instead of frying tortillas?
Yes, baking works well and uses less oil.
Conclusion
Homemade Mexican Pizza is a flavorful, satisfying meal that brings bold taste and comforting textures together in one dish. With crispy layers, seasoned fillings, and endless customization options, it is a recipe you will return to again and again.
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