Taco Bell Mexican Pizza Copycat Recipe (Better Than the Original)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Taco Bell Mexican Pizza has achieved cult status for a reason. It combines the best elements of tacos and pizza into one satisfying, layered dish. This homemade version captures everything people love about the original: crisp tortillas, well-seasoned beef, creamy beans, tangy sauce, and perfectly melted cheese. I tested this recipe several times to balance flavor and texture, and the result is remarkably close to the restaurant classic, with the added benefit of fresher ingredients and customizable portions. Unlike takeout, this version stays crispy, reheats well, and allows you to control salt, spice, and toppings. If you enjoy bold Tex-Mex flavors and nostalgic fast-food favorites, this recipe will quickly become a repeat meal in your kitchen.

Print

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Flour tortillas
Large flour tortillas form the crispy base of this dish. When fried or baked, they become golden and sturdy enough to hold multiple layers without becoming soggy.

Ground beef
Lean ground beef provides a rich, savory foundation. Cooking it thoroughly and draining excess fat ensures the final pizza is flavorful but not greasy.

Taco seasoning
A blend of chili powder, cumin, garlic, and paprika gives the beef its signature Tex-Mex taste. You may use store-bought seasoning or a homemade blend.

Refried beans
Refried beans add creaminess and balance the spiced beef. I prefer smooth beans, as they spread evenly across the tortilla.

Mexican pizza sauce
This mildly spiced tomato-based sauce brings acidity and depth. It ties together the beef, beans, and cheese without overpowering them.

Shredded Mexican-blend cheese
A combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack melts beautifully and delivers the familiar flavor associated with the original dish.

Vegetable oil
Oil is essential for frying or brushing the tortillas to achieve a crisp texture.

Green onions
Finely sliced green onions add freshness and a subtle bite that contrasts nicely with the rich layers.

Black olives
Sliced black olives provide a salty, slightly tangy accent that completes the classic flavor profile.

Directions

Begin by preparing the tortillas. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat and fry each tortilla until golden and crisp on both sides. Transfer to paper towels to drain excess oil. Set aside.

In a separate skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until fully browned. Drain excess fat, then add taco seasoning and a small amount of water. Simmer until the beef is well coated and thickened.

Warm the refried beans in a small saucepan or microwave until smooth and spreadable.

To assemble, place one crispy tortilla on a baking sheet. Spread an even layer of refried beans, followed by seasoned beef. Place a second tortilla on top and gently press down. Spoon Mexican pizza sauce over the surface and sprinkle generously with shredded cheese.

Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. Remove from the oven and garnish with green onions and black olives. Slice into quarters and serve immediately.

Equipment needed

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 yields 4 individual Mexican pizzas.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations and Customizations

This recipe adapts easily to personal preferences and dietary needs. For a chicken version, substitute ground beef with finely chopped cooked chicken seasoned with taco spices. Vegetarian options work well with seasoned black beans or lentils in place of meat.

For extra heat, add jalapeño slices or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce. If you prefer a lighter version, bake the tortillas instead of frying them; brushing lightly with oil still delivers a pleasant crunch.

Cheese lovers can experiment with pepper jack for more spice or a sharp cheddar for deeper flavor. You may also add diced tomatoes or shredded lettuce after baking for added freshness. Each variation keeps the core structure intact while allowing the recipe to reflect your taste.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	520 kcal
Protein	24 g
Carbohydrates	42 g
Fat	28 g
Saturated Fat	11 g
Fiber	5 g
Sugar	4 g
Sodium	980 mg

Expert Tips & Customizations

Achieving Maximum Crispiness
Ensure tortillas are fully crisp before assembling to prevent sogginess.

Balancing the Layers
Spread beans thinly and evenly to avoid overpowering the beef.

Oven vs. Skillet Finish
Baking ensures even cheese melting, while a covered skillet can work for smaller batches.

Make-Ahead Option
Prepare beef and beans in advance to streamline assembly.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the components in advance and assemble just before baking for best texture.

Can I air-fry the tortillas?

Yes, air-frying at 375°F for 4–5 minutes per side works well.

Is this recipe spicy?

It is mildly spiced, but heat levels can be adjusted easily.

Can I freeze Mexican pizza?

Freezing is not recommended, as tortillas lose crispness when reheated.

What cheese works best?

Mexican-blend cheese provides the most authentic flavor.

Is this similar to the original Taco Bell version?

Yes, it closely replicates the taste of the Taco Bell favorite with improved freshness.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat in the oven to restore crispness.

Conclusion

This Taco Bell Mexican Pizza copycat delivers the nostalgic flavors people love with simple ingredients and reliable results. It is a satisfying, customizable dish that works equally well for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Hungry for more?  Visit our website for full recipes and follow us on Pinterest for daily foodie inspo you’ll love to pin!