Taco Bell Mexican Pizza Casserole Recipe

Do you love the taste of Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza but want to enjoy it right at home?

This copycat recipe brings together cheesy, layered tortillas with flavorful ground beef, salsa, and all the fixings.

I recommend using both flour and corn tortillas to add a unique texture to your casserole.

Brown the ground beef with diced onions and a generous amount of taco seasoning for a rich, savory base.

Layer it all with refried beans and top with plenty of shredded Mexican cheese for a dish your family will crave!

How to Make Taco Bell Mexican Pizza Casserole Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 lb Ground Beef
• 1 packet Taco Seasoning
• ¾ cup Water
• 8 Flour Tortillas
• 2 Tbsp Vegetable Oil
• 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese
• 1 cup Refried Beans
• 1 cup Salsa
• 1 can Black Olives (sliced)
• 1 cup Diced Tomatoes
• 1 cup Sliced Green Onions

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 350°F and spray a baking sheet with non-stick spray.

Step 2:

Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat.

Once cooked, drain any excess grease and add the taco seasoning and water.

Simmer until the sauce thickens.

Step 3:

In another skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.

Cook each tortilla until they are crispy and golden brown on both sides, about 3-5 minutes per side.

Step 4:

On the prepared baking sheet, place four tortillas.

Spread a layer of refried beans over each tortilla, followed by the seasoned ground beef.

Top with another tortilla on each.

Step 5:

Spread salsa over the top tortillas and sprinkle with shredded cheese.

Add black olives, diced tomatoes, and green onions.

Bake for 10-12 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve hot.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Crisping Tortillas

Make sure your tortillas are fully crisp before building your casserole layers.

This prevents sogginess and keeps your casserole texture just right.

Even Layers

Spread your ingredients evenly to ensure that every bite is delicious.

Uneven layers might cause some parts to be dry while others are overloaded.

Cheese Choices

Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends.

Mix cheddar with Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend for added flavor.

Optional Add-Ins

For those who enjoy a little heat, add sliced jalapeños to the top before baking.

It adds a spicy kick that complements the dish well.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your casserole with a side of sour cream or guacamole.

These additions enhance the flavors and provide a cooling contrast to the spicy elements.

What to Serve with Taco Bell Mexican Pizza Casserole

Spanish Rice

Spanish rice is a classic companion for any Mexican dish.

It’s flavorful and easy to prepare with just a few ingredients like tomatoes, onions, and garlic.

You’ll love how the taste of the rice complements the Mexican Pizza Casserole.

Refried Beans

Refried beans are a traditional side that pairs wonderfully with Mexican dishes.

They add a creamy texture and rich flavor that works well next to the crunchy, cheesy goodness of the casserole.

You can even sprinkle a bit of cheese on top for an extra treat!

Corn Salad

A fresh corn salad can be a delightful and somewhat unexpected side.

Mix together some grilled corn, black beans, diced red bell pepper, and a tangy lime dressing.

This salad adds a burst of color and freshness to your meal.

Avocado Fries

For a unique twist, consider serving avocado fries.

Slice avocados into wedges, coat them in breadcrumbs, and bake until crispy.

These fries have a creamy inside with a crispy exterior that makes a fun and tasty side dish.

Jalapeño Poppers

Spice up your meal with jalapeño poppers.

Stuff jalapeño peppers with cream cheese and cheddar, then bake until golden.

These give a nice kick and are a great finger food to serve alongside the Mexican Pizza Casserole.

Mango Salsa

For a light and refreshing option, mango salsa works exceptionally well.

Combine diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, and cilantro with a squeeze of lime juice.

This sweet and tangy salsa adds a refreshing note that contrasts nicely with the savory casserole.

Variations and Substitutions

Different Meat Options

If you’re not a fan of ground beef, you can use shredded chicken or turkey.

Just ensure it’s well seasoned with taco spices to maintain that flavorful kick.

Feel free to try carne asada or pork for a different twist.

Cheese Bliss

You don’t have to stick to the traditional mozzarella and Mexican cheese blend.

Try using cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a bit of pepper jack for some added spice.

Mixing different cheeses can create an extra gooey and delicious topping.

Vegeterian Delight

Vegetarians can switch the meat for black beans or refried beans.

Grilled veggies like bell peppers and corn add both color and nutrition.

Adding some sautéed mushrooms can give an extra layer of savory flavor.

Sauce Substitutions

If you can’t find enchilada sauce, you can use salsa or taco sauce instead.

Green salsa can give a tangy twist that pairs well with the cheese.

Another option is to make your own sauce by blending tomatoes, spices, and chilies.

Toppings Galore

Customize your casserole by adding fresh toppings after baking.

Try lettuce, diced tomatoes, onions, or even a dollop of sour cream.

Avocado slices or guacamole can add a creamy texture and rich flavor.

How to Store Leftover Taco Bell Mexican Pizza Casserole

Refrigeration

If you have leftover Taco Bell Mexican Pizza Casserole, store it in an airtight container.

Make sure the casserole has cooled to room temperature before placing it in the fridge.

It will stay fresh for up to three to four days if stored properly.

Freezing

To freeze your leftovers, wrap individual portions in plastic wrap.

Then, place the wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Your Taco Bell Mexican Pizza Casserole can be kept in the freezer for one to two months.

Labeling

Don’t forget to label your containers with the date!

This will help you track how long the casserole has been stored.

It’s always a good practice to know how long something has been in the fridge or freezer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Ground Beef

One mistake people often make is overcooking the ground beef.

You only need to cook the beef until it’s no longer pink.

Leaving it on the heat too long can make it dry and tough.

Not Draining the Grease

Another common error is not draining the grease after browning the beef.

Leaving the grease in can make the dish too oily and unappetizing.

Always take a moment to drain the grease for a healthier casserole.

Incorrect Layering

Layering incorrectly can affect the final texture and taste of your casserole.

Be sure to follow the layering steps precisely for an evenly cooked dish.

Start with a layer of tortillas, followed by meat, and then cheese.

By avoiding these mistakes, you’ll create a delicious Taco Bell Mexican Pizza Casserole that everyone will love!