Ground beef: because it is classic Taco Bell style and picks up the taco seasoning flavor
Taco seasoning packet: this shortcut is packed with spices and saves you time
Water: helps the seasoning blend into the beef and creates the right sauciness
Vegetable oil: for frying those tortillas to golden crunchy perfection use a fresh and neutral oil
Flour tortillas: taco size cook up thicker and crispier than corn make sure they feel soft and pliable out of the package
Refried beans: the creamy middle that holds everything together choose one without extra fillers and taste before using
Enchilada sauce: gives the pizza its signature spice and tang you can use homemade or a mild to medium canned version
Shredded Mexican cheese blend: melts perfectly and adds creaminess fresher cheese always tastes best
Diced tomatoes: for fresh tart zing on top use ripe tomatoes for best results
Sliced green onions: these make the whole dish pop with a little bite and color
Sliced olives: the classic finish optional but add great briny contrast try to grab a can with whole olives and slice them yourself
Sour cream: for that cool creamy element dollop just before serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep and Cook the Beef:
Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat breaking it up as it cooks until there are no pink spots left about 7 to 8 minutes. Drain well then return to the skillet.
Season the Beef:
Sprinkle on the taco seasoning and pour in the water. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil. Lower the heat and simmer until thickened so it coats the meat about 4 to 5 minutes.
Fry Tortillas:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot add one tortilla at a time and cook for roughly 3 to 4 minutes flipping often so both sides are golden and crisp. Remove and set aside on a plate lined with paper towels. Continue until all tortillas are fried.
Warm and Prep Refried Beans:
Scoop the refried beans into a microwave safe bowl and heat until warm and spreadable about 1 to 2 minutes on high. Stir to smooth out.
Assemble the Pizzas:
Take one crispy tortilla and spread a generous layer of warm refried beans edge to edge. Add a scoop of seasoned ground beef spreading evenly over the beans.
Add Top Tortilla Layer:
Place a second tortilla directly on top of the beef layer making a sandwich.
Sauce and Cheese:
Spread a couple tablespoons of enchilada sauce across the top tortilla. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded Mexican cheese blend over the sauce.
Bake:
Arrange the assembled pizzas on a large nonstick baking sheet leaving space between each pizza. Bake in a preheated 400 degree oven for about 8 to 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Finish and Serve:
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly so the toppings set. Add diced tomatoes green onions olives and sour cream as desired. Slice into quarters for easy eating.
