Next, I spread a generous layer of refried beans over each of the crispy tortillas. The creamy texture juxtaposed with the crunch is just heavenly. Then, I layer on the seasoned beef, followed by a sprinkle of cheese—my favorite part! I make sure to cover it well because who doesn’t love cheesy goodness? Now, I carefully place another tortilla on top and repeat the process: beans, meat, and cheese. It’s all about building those delicious layers.
Once I have my Mexican pizzas assembled, I pop them in the oven for about 10 minutes, just until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden. The smell in my kitchen at this point is mouthwatering, and I just can’t wait. After taking them out, I top each with diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and a drizzle of Mexican pizza sauce. They’re ready to serve, and I can hardly contain my excitement!
Pro Tips for Best Results
I tested this recipe three ways—first with homemade refried beans, then with store-bought, and lastly, with black beans for a vegetarian version. Each time, the flavor profile changed beautifully, but I found that using homemade refried beans brings a richness that elevates the dish.
Another tip is to make sure your tortillas are nice and crispy. If you have extra time, you can even bake them in the oven for a few minutes before assembling your pizzas. This extra step guarantees you won’t end up with soggy tortillas beneath that delicious filling.
Lastly, don’t be shy with the toppings! Add jalapeños for a spicy kick or drizzle your favorite hot sauce over the top for an added zing. You can play around with flavors and textures until you find your perfect combination.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One mistake I made on my first attempt was not frying the tortillas long enough. They ended up too soft and didn’t provide the necessary crunch I crave in a good Mexican pizza. Trust me; you really want that contrast between the crispy tortillas and the soft filling. Fry them to a perfect golden brown!
Another common pitfall is over-stuffing the pizzas. It’s so tempting to pile on all the delicious ingredients, but too much filling can lead to a mess when you try to cut or eat them. I’ve learned that a modest amount of toppings makes for much easier handling of each slice. (See the next page below to continue…)