🌮🍕 Taco Bell–Style Mexican Pizza (Mediterranean-Inspired)

✨ Description

This Mexican Pizza is inspired by the iconic Taco Bell favorite, reimagined with Mediterranean principles—lean protein, olive oil, warm spices, and balanced flavors. Crispy tortillas replace deep-fried shells, seasoned beef is cooked with olive oil and herbs, and the whole thing is layered with beans, sauce, and melted cheese for that crave-worthy bite—without feeling heavy.


🧾 Ingredients (Serves 4)

Pizza Base

  • 8 small flour or whole-wheat tortillas

  • Olive oil spray or light brushing

Protein Layer

  • ½ lb (225 g) lean ground beef or ground turkey

  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin

  • 1 teaspoon paprika

  • ½ teaspoon chili powder

  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

  • Salt & black pepper to taste

Bean Layer

  • 1 cup refried beans (or mashed pinto/black beans)

Sauce

  • ½ cup tomato sauce

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • ½ teaspoon cumin

  • ½ teaspoon paprika

Toppings

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella & cheddar blend

  • ½ cup diced tomatoes

  • ¼ cup sliced black olives

  • 2 tablespoons chopped green onions

  • Optional: Greek yogurt or sour cream substitute


👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Crisp the tortillas
    Brush tortillas lightly with olive oil. Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 5–7 minutes per side until golden and crisp.

  2. Cook the meat
    Heat olive oil in a skillet. Add beef, spices, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and fragrant.

  3. Prepare the sauce
    Warm tomato sauce with olive oil, cumin, and paprika. Simmer 2–3 minutes.

  4. Assemble pizzas
    Place one crisp tortilla on a baking tray. Spread beans, add meat, drizzle sauce, sprinkle cheese. Top with second tortilla.

  5. Final bake
    Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 8–10 minutes until cheese melts.

  6. Add toppings
    Finish with tomatoes, olives, green onions, and yogurt drizzle.

  7. Slice & serve
    Cut into wedges and enjoy hot.


🥗 Mediterranean Health Touches

  • Olive oil instead of frying

  • Lean protein for balance

  • Tomato-based sauce rich in antioxidants

  • Greek yogurt instead of sour cream


❓ Q & A

Q: Can I make this vegetarian?

A: Yes! Swap meat with lentils, mushrooms, or chickpeas seasoned the same way.

Q: Can I air-fry the tortillas?

A: Absolutely. Air fry at 190°C (375°F) for 3–4 minutes per side.

Q: Is this spicy?

A: Mild. Add jalapeños or chili flakes if you want heat.

Q: Can I make it gluten-free?

A: Use corn tortillas and ensure beans and sauce are gluten-free.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: Store assembled pizza in the fridge up to 2 days. Reheat in oven or air fryer for crispiness.

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