ADVERTISEMENT
**Instructions for Meat Filling:**
1. **Cook the meat:** Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or chicken) and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
2. **Season the meat:** Drain any excess fat from the skillet, if necessary. Add the taco seasoning and water to the meat, stirring until the meat is evenly coated. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
#### **Step 3: Prepare the Refried Beans**
1. **Heat the beans:** If using canned refried beans, open the can and transfer the beans to a saucepan. Heat over low-medium heat until warmed through. Stir occasionally to avoid burning. You can add a little water or vegetable broth to thin out the beans if needed.
2. **Season the beans (Optional):** If you want to enhance the flavor, you can season the beans with a pinch of cumin, garlic powder, or chili powder.
#### **Step 4: Assemble the Mexican Pizza**
Now that you’ve prepared the dough, meat, and refried beans, it’s time to assemble your Mexican pizza.
1. **Spread the refried beans:** If you’re using pizza dough, spread a thin layer of refried beans over the entire surface of the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. If you’re using tortillas, place them on a baking sheet and spread refried beans on one side.
2. **Add the seasoned meat:** Evenly distribute the seasoned ground beef or chicken over the beans.
3. **Add the cheese:** Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the top. Ensure the cheese covers the meat and beans completely.
4. **Bake the pizza:** Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crispy, and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.
#### **Step 5: Add the Fresh Toppings**
Once your pizza is baked, remove it from the oven and add the fresh toppings:
1. **Top with lettuce:** Shredded lettuce adds a refreshing crunch to balance the richness of the cheese and beans.
2. **Add tomatoes and jalapeños:** Sprinkle chopped tomatoes and sliced jalapeños over the pizza.
3. **Finish with sour cream and cilantro:** Add a dollop of sour cream to the center of the pizza and garnish with fresh cilantro.
—
### **Serving Suggestions and Variations**
While the classic Mexican pizza is already packed with flavor, you can customize it further by adding or swapping ingredients based on your preferences.
#### **Toppings Variations:**
– **Avocado or Guacamole:** Add slices of fresh avocado or a scoop of guacamole for extra creaminess.
– **Olives:** Black olives or green olives can provide a salty contrast to the rich toppings.
– **Corn:** Adding sweet corn kernels can give the pizza a pop of color and sweetness.
– **Sautéed Peppers and Onions:** For an extra burst of flavor, sauté bell peppers and onions until softened and scatter them over the pizza before baking.
#### **Serving Suggestions:**
– Serve the Mexican pizza with a side of **Mexican street corn (elote)** or a **fresh green salad** with lime dressing.
– Pair with **margaritas**, **agua fresca**, or a cold **Mexican lager** for a festive touch.
—
### **Conclusion**
Homemade Mexican pizza is a flavorful, customizable dish that combines the best aspects of pizza and Mexican cuisine. The crispy, golden crust paired with seasoned meat, creamy refried beans, and a variety of fresh toppings creates a satisfying and delicious meal. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a gathering, or just craving something new, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
By following these simple steps and experimenting with different toppings, you can create a personalized Mexican pizza that is as unique as you are. The next time you’re in the mood for something different, skip the takeout and whip up this delicious homemade Mexican pizza that will surely impress your taste buds!
