Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Small saucepan
- Paper towel-lined plate or baking rack
- Baking sheet
- Pastry brush or spoon
- Sharp knife and cutting board
Step-by-Step Instructions
First, we tackle the tortillas. This step is what gives the Mexican Pizza its signature crunch. Heat your oil in the skillet over medium heat until it shimmers. Carefully fry each flour tortilla for about 30-45 seconds per side until golden and crisp, not browned. I learned the hard way that letting them get too dark makes them bitter. Transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. While they cool, cook your ground beef in a separate pan until browned, drain the fat, then stir in the taco seasoning and water. Let it simmer until thickened—this creates the flavorful, saucy layer we need.
Now, for assembly! Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place two fried tortillas on a baking sheet. Spread a thin, even layer of the warmed refried beans on each—about 1/4 cup per tortilla. This acts as our delicious “glue.” Next, divide the seasoned beef mixture between them, pressing it gently into the bean layer. Carefully place the remaining two fried tortillas on top to create your pizza “stack.” I press down lightly to help everything adhere.
Here comes the magic coat: using a pastry brush or the back of a spoon, generously cover the top tortilla with the enchilada sauce. Make sure you go all the way to the edges; this sauce keeps the top layer moist and flavorful as it bakes. Then, sprinkle a hefty amount of shredded cheese over the sauce. I’ve tried skimping on cheese, and it’s just not the same—be liberal here! Bake for 8-10 minutes, just until the cheese is perfectly melted and bubbly.
The final act is all about freshness. Pull your beautiful, crispy, cheesy creations from the oven and let them rest for just 2-3 minutes. This brief wait makes them easier to cut. Then, generously top with the diced tomato and a flurry of sliced green onions. I use a pizza cutter to slice them into quarters, and that moment when the cutter cracks through the crispy layers is so deeply satisfying. Serve immediately while everything is hot, crunchy, and vibrant.(See the next page below to continue…)