Taco Bell Mexican Pizza Casserole
If you’re looking for a fun and tasty dinner idea, the Taco Bell Mexican Pizza Casserole is a fantastic choice. This dish brings all the classic flavors of a Mexican pizza into a layered casserole that is easy to make and loved by everyone. It’s perfect for a weeknight meal or gatherings with friends and family.
Why Make This Recipe
Making this Taco Bell Mexican Pizza Casserole is not just about the delicious taste; it’s also about convenience. This dish is quick to prepare and is a hit with both kids and adults. It’s loaded with protein, cheese, and veggies, making it a balanced meal in a single pan. Plus, it brings back the nostalgia of Taco Bell favorites right to your dining table!
How to Make Taco Bell Mexican Pizza Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 2 cups refried beans
- 2 cups diced tomatoes
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar and mozzarella)
- 6 corn tortillas
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned. Drain the excess fat.
- Stir in the taco seasoning and diced tomatoes, and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
- In a casserole dish, spread a layer of refried beans on the bottom.
- Layer 2 tortillas on top of the beans.
- Add half of the beef mixture, then half of the cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining tortillas, beef mixture, and cheese.
- Pour salsa over the top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.
- Let it cool for a few minutes, then garnish with sour cream and green onions before serving.
How to Serve Taco Bell Mexican Pizza Casserole
This casserole can be served hot straight from the oven. It’s great as a main dish, and you can offer extra toppings on the side like salsa, avocado, or jalapeños. Everyone can customize their plates according to their taste!
How to Store Taco Bell Mexican Pizza Casserole
If you have leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months.
Tips to Make Taco Bell Mexican Pizza Casserole
- For extra crunch, try using crispy corn tortillas instead of soft ones.
- Feel free to add black beans or corn for more flavor and texture.
- Adjust the amount of taco seasoning based on your spice preference.
Variation
You can easily make this casserole vegetarian by replacing the ground beef with black beans or extra vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini.
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
2. Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
Yes, flour tortillas work well too! Just keep in mind that they might not have the same crunch as corn tortillas.
3. What if I don’t have taco seasoning?
You can create a homemade taco seasoning mix using chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
