Air-Fryer Taco Bell Mexican Pizza: Quick, Easy, Delicious!

Taco Bell's Mexican Pizza is a fast-food fusion dish that combines Mexican flavours with the convenience of pizza. This copycat recipe will show you how to make it in an air fryer, resulting in a crispy, savoury, and cheesy dish that's easy to prepare and perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a fun gathering.

Choosing the right tortillas

The choice of tortillas is crucial to the success of your Mexican pizza. The tortillas form the base of the pizza, and getting them crispy is essential to achieving that distinctive crunch that defines this dish.

Flour or Corn Tortillas?

You can use either flour or corn tortillas for your Mexican pizza, and both have their advantages. Flour tortillas are likely to be more familiar, and they are the type that Taco Bell currently lists as an ingredient on their website. Corn tortillas, on the other hand, are a good gluten-free option and may offer a more authentic Mexican flavour.

Getting the Tortillas Crispy

Regardless of which type of tortilla you choose, you'll want to make sure they're nice and crispy before you start assembling your pizza. This can be done by heating them in a pan or griddle with a little oil over a medium-high heat, flipping them frequently so they don't burn. You can also use an air fryer or oven to crisp them up. If using an air fryer, be aware that corn tortillas may crisp up faster than flour tortillas, so adjust your timing accordingly.

Tortilla Size and Number

For the best layering effect, choose medium-sized tortillas. You will need two tortillas per pizza, and they should be around 8 inches in diameter.

Tips for Success

• Opt for medium to large, sturdy tortillas that can support the weight of your toppings without tearing.
• Thinner tortillas may become too crispy or burn, so choose a thicker variety if possible.
• If you're using ground beef or another type of meat, be sure to drain off any excess grease after cooking to prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy.
• Avoid overloading your pizza with wet ingredients like salsa or sauce, as this can also lead to a soggy base.
• If you want to add extra cheese, consider placing it between the two tortillas as a "sealant" to help keep the toppings in place.
• If you're making multiple pizzas, assemble them all and then cook them together in the oven to save time and energy.
• If you have any leftovers, wrap them well or store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.

With these tips in mind, you're now ready to choose the perfect tortillas for your Mexican pizza and create a delicious, crispy treat!

Preparing the taco meat

The taco meat is a key component of the Taco Bell Mexican Pizza, adding a hearty and spiced element to the dish. Here are the steps to prepare delicious taco meat for your pizza:

Ingredients:

• Ground beef: Opt for lean ground beef to control the fat content and keep your pizza light and healthy.
• Taco seasoning: You can use a store-bought packet of taco seasoning or make your own blend with spices like cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder.
• Hot sauce: Add a dash of your favourite hot sauce to give the meat an extra kick.
• Salsa: Salsa adds bold Mexican flavours and moisture to the meat. If you don't have salsa, you can substitute it with tomato sauce, water, or taco sauce.
• Water: Water helps to thin out the meat mixture and ensure it spreads evenly.

Instructions:

• Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat. Break up the meat with a spatula or spoon as it cooks to ensure it is evenly browned with no pink remaining.
• Drain any excess grease from the cooked beef. This step is important to prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy.
• Return the meat to the skillet and add the taco seasoning, hot sauce, salsa, and water. Stir well to combine.
• Bring the meat mixture to a simmer and cook for 4-5 minutes. This allows the flavours to meld and intensify.
• Remove the meat from the heat and, if using, mix in cream cheese until it is fully incorporated and melted.

Your taco meat is now ready to be used as a delicious layer in your Taco Bell Mexican Pizza! Remember to spread it evenly over the refried beans, covering the entire tortilla. Enjoy the process of crafting your own pizza and feel free to customise the meat with your preferred spices and ingredients!

Layering the toppings

Start by spreading the refried beans on the first tostada shell or tortilla. The beans act as a glue to hold the toppings together and add a creamy texture to the pizza. Spread the beans evenly, covering the entire surface of the shell or tortilla.

Next, add the taco meat. Spread the seasoned ground beef over the beans, ensuring it covers the entire surface. The taco meat is what gives the pizza its hearty and spiced flavour.

At this point, you can also add some shredded cheese. A Mexican blend, cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a combination of these cheeses will work well. The cheese will act as a sealant and help hold the toppings together.

Now, place the second tostada shell or tortilla on top of the meat and cheese layer. This creates a "lid" for the pizza.

Spread a generous amount of enchilada sauce or salsa over the second shell. This adds moisture and a tangy kick to the pizza. Make sure the sauce covers the entire surface.

Finally, top it off with more shredded cheese. This will create a gooey, golden layer that ties all the ingredients together. You can use the same type of cheese as before, or mix it up with a different variety for added flavour.

Once you've layered all the toppings, your Taco Bell Mexican Pizza is ready to be cooked in the air fryer!

Air frying the pizza

Step 1: Prepare the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 350-400°F. This step is crucial for achieving a crispy base. While some recipes don't specify preheating, it's generally recommended to ensure optimal cooking.

Step 2: Assemble the Pizza

On a flat surface, place an 8" flour tortilla. You can also use a tostada shell for an even crispier base. Spread the ground beef mixture evenly over the tortilla. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also add a layer of cilantro-lime rice or Spanish rice at this point. Just be aware that it might make the pizza a bit messier to eat.

Step 3: Add the Toppings

Take another tortilla and spread it with enchilada sauce or pizza sauce (a mixture of salsa and hot sauce). Sprinkle shredded cheese on top. You can use a blend of Monterey Jack and Cheddar, or experiment with other types like mozzarella or pepper jack.

Step 4: Air Fry the Pizza

Place the assembled pizza in the preheated air fryer. Cook for approximately 5 minutes at 400°F. Keep an eye on it, as cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model and the thickness of your toppings.

Step 5: Check and Adjust Cooking

Check the pizza after the initial cooking time. If it needs more time, continue cooking in 2-minute increments until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Remember, it's better to cook it a little longer if you want a crispier crust.

Step 6: Add Fresh Toppings

Once the pizza is cooked to your liking, remove it from the air fryer and add your choice of fresh toppings. Some options include salsa, sour cream, diced tomatoes, green onions, cilantro, or even a squeeze of lime juice.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

For the best taste and texture, serve the pizza immediately while it's still hot and crispy. If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Tips for Success:

• Don't overload the pizza with wet ingredients like salsa or sauce to prevent a soggy base.
• Balance your toppings evenly for consistent cooking and flavor in every bite.
• Use quality tortillas that are sturdy enough to hold the weight of your toppings without tearing.
• If using ground beef or other meats, drain excess grease after cooking to prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy.

Enjoy your homemade Taco Bell-style Mexican Pizza, fresh and crispy from the air fryer!

Adding fresh toppings

Choose Your Toppings:

The beauty of Taco Bell Mexican Pizza is its customizability. You can choose from a variety of fresh toppings to suit your taste preferences. Popular options include:

• Diced tomatoes: Provide a fresh, slightly acidic contrast to the rich and savory flavors of the meat and beans.
• Green onions: Add a mild, crunchy bite and a pop of color.
• Sliced olives: Offer bursts of salty flavor and a visually appealing touch.
• Sour cream: Complement the spicy and savory flavors of the pizza with its cool, creamy finish.
• Cilantro: Bring a fresh, herbal flavor that brightens up the dish.
• Avocado slices: Contribute creaminess and richness.
• Jalapenos: Add a spicy kick to your pizza.

Preparing the Toppings:

To ensure the best flavor and texture, it is recommended to prepare and chop your fresh toppings just before assembling your pizza. This will help maintain their freshness and crispness.

Assembling the Pizza:

When adding your fresh toppings, you can follow these steps:

• Start by spreading the refried beans on a tostada shell or tortilla.
• Add the seasoned beef, spreading it evenly.
• Place another tostada shell or tortilla on top.
• Spread the enchilada sauce or salsa mixture on the second shell.
• Generously sprinkle shredded cheese.
• Place the assembled pizza in the air fryer and cook according to the recipe instructions.
• Once cooked, remove the pizza from the air fryer and add your desired fresh toppings.

Tips for Success:

• Be mindful of the moisture content of your fresh toppings. Excessive moisture can lead to a soggy pizza.
• For a balanced pizza, distribute your toppings evenly, ensuring that no area is overloaded.
• If using sliced avocado, add it just before serving to prevent oxidation and browning.
• If you want to add a final touch of freshness, you can also serve your pizza with a side of salsa or guacamole.

Frequently asked questions