Spice Up Your Life: Delicious and Easy Mexican Pizza Recipes
Mexican pizza is a delightful fusion dish that combines the best of Mexican and Italian cuisines. It’s a quick, easy, and customizable meal perfect for weeknights, parties, or any occasion where you want a flavorful and satisfying bite. This article will guide you through several delicious Mexican pizza recipes, from classic variations to creative twists. We’ll provide detailed instructions, ingredient lists, and helpful tips to ensure your Mexican pizza is a culinary masterpiece.
## What is Mexican Pizza?
At its core, Mexican pizza is a pizza crust topped with ingredients commonly found in Mexican cuisine. Think refried beans, seasoned ground beef or chicken, salsa, cheese, and your favorite toppings like tomatoes, onions, olives, and jalapenos. The beauty of Mexican pizza lies in its adaptability. You can use store-bought pizza crust, tortillas, or even cauliflower crust for a gluten-free option. The toppings can be adjusted to your preferences, making it a versatile dish for everyone.
## Why You’ll Love Mexican Pizza
* **Easy to Make:** Mexican pizza requires minimal cooking skills and can be assembled in minutes.
* **Customizable:** The toppings are entirely up to you, allowing for endless variations.
* **Quick Meal:** From start to finish, you can have a delicious Mexican pizza on the table in under 30 minutes.
* **Budget-Friendly:** You can use leftover ingredients to create a tasty and affordable meal.
* **Crowd-Pleaser:** Mexican pizza is always a hit at parties and gatherings.
## Classic Mexican Pizza Recipe
This recipe is a great starting point for exploring the world of Mexican pizza. It’s simple, flavorful, and satisfying.
**Yields:** 6-8 servings
**Prep time:** 15 minutes
**Cook time:** 15 minutes
### Ingredients:
* 1 large (12-inch) pre-made pizza crust or 6-8 flour tortillas (6-8 inches)
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
* 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning
* 1 cup refried beans
* 1 cup salsa
* 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican blend cheese
* 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
* 1/4 cup chopped red onion
* 1/4 cup sliced black olives
* 1/4 cup sliced jalapenos (optional)
* Sour cream, for serving (optional)
* Guacamole, for serving (optional)
* Chopped cilantro, for garnish (optional)
### Equipment:
* Large skillet
* Baking sheet or pizza stone
* Spatula
* Knife
* Cutting board
### Instructions:
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it preheats.
2. **Cook the Ground Meat:** Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned. Drain any excess grease.
3. **Season the Meat:** Stir in the taco seasoning and 1/4 cup of water. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. **Prepare the Crust:** If using a pre-made pizza crust, place it on a baking sheet or pizza stone. If using flour tortillas, you can either bake them individually or layer them on a baking sheet, overlapping slightly.
5. **Assemble the Pizza:** Spread the refried beans evenly over the pizza crust or tortillas. Then, spread the seasoned ground meat over the beans.
6. **Add Salsa and Cheese:** Spread the salsa over the meat and sprinkle with the shredded cheese.
7. **Add Toppings:** Top with chopped tomatoes, red onion, black olives, and jalapenos (if using).
8. **Bake the Pizza:** Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the crust is golden brown. If using tortillas, bake until they are crispy.
9. **Serve:** Let the pizza cool slightly before slicing and serving. Top with sour cream, guacamole, and chopped cilantro, if desired.
### Tips for the Perfect Classic Mexican Pizza:
* **Don’t Overload the Crust:** Too many toppings can make the crust soggy. Be mindful of the amount of each ingredient you use.
* **Use Quality Ingredients:** Fresh, high-quality ingredients will make a noticeable difference in the flavor of your pizza.
* **Pre-Cook the Crust (Optional):** If you prefer a crispier crust, you can pre-bake it for a few minutes before adding the toppings.
* **Adjust the Spice Level:** Use mild, medium, or hot salsa and jalapenos to adjust the spice level to your preference.
* **Warm the Tortillas:** If using flour tortillas, warming them slightly before assembling the pizza will make them more pliable and less likely to crack.
## Chicken Mexican Pizza Recipe
This recipe uses shredded chicken instead of ground beef for a lighter and equally delicious option.
**Yields:** 6-8 servings
**Prep time:** 15 minutes
**Cook time:** 15 minutes
### Ingredients:
* 1 large (12-inch) pre-made pizza crust or 6-8 flour tortillas (6-8 inches)
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
* 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning
* 1 cup refried beans
* 1 cup salsa verde
* 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese or Mexican blend cheese
* 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
* 1/4 cup chopped red onion
* 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
* 1/4 cup pickled jalapenos (optional)
* Sour cream, for serving (optional)
* Avocado slices, for serving (optional)
### Equipment:
* Large skillet
* Baking sheet or pizza stone
* Spatula
* Knife
* Cutting board
### Instructions:
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it preheats.
2. **Season the Chicken:** In a large skillet, toss the shredded chicken with the taco seasoning. You can add a tablespoon of water if needed to help the seasoning adhere.
3. **Prepare the Crust:** If using a pre-made pizza crust, place it on a baking sheet or pizza stone. If using flour tortillas, you can either bake them individually or layer them on a baking sheet, overlapping slightly.
4. **Assemble the Pizza:** Spread the refried beans evenly over the pizza crust or tortillas. Then, spread the seasoned shredded chicken over the beans.
5. **Add Salsa Verde and Cheese:** Spread the salsa verde over the chicken and sprinkle with the shredded cheese.
6. **Add Toppings:** Top with chopped green bell pepper, red onion, chopped cilantro, and pickled jalapenos (if using).
7. **Bake the Pizza:** Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the crust is golden brown. If using tortillas, bake until they are crispy.
8. **Serve:** Let the pizza cool slightly before slicing and serving. Top with sour cream and avocado slices, if desired.
### Tips for Chicken Mexican Pizza:
* **Use Rotisserie Chicken:** Rotisserie chicken is a convenient and flavorful option for this recipe.
* **Salsa Verde for a Tangy Twist:** Salsa verde adds a tangy and slightly spicy flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.
* **Fresh Cilantro is Key:** Don’t skip the fresh cilantro! It adds a bright and refreshing element to the pizza.
* **Consider Adding Corn:** Sweet corn kernels add a pop of sweetness and texture.
* **Lime Crema Drizzle:** Drizzle with lime crema (sour cream mixed with lime juice) for an extra burst of flavor.
## Vegetarian Mexican Pizza Recipe
This recipe is perfect for vegetarians and anyone looking for a meatless meal. It’s packed with flavor and nutrients.
**Yields:** 6-8 servings
**Prep time:** 15 minutes
**Cook time:** 15 minutes
### Ingredients:
* 1 large (12-inch) pre-made pizza crust or 6-8 flour tortillas (6-8 inches)
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
* 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained
* 1 red bell pepper, chopped
* 1/2 red onion, chopped
* 1 jalapeno, seeded and minced (optional)
* 1 teaspoon chili powder
* 1/2 teaspoon cumin
* 1 cup refried beans
* 1 cup salsa
* 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican blend cheese
* 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
* Sour cream, for serving (optional)
* Guacamole, for serving (optional)
### Equipment:
* Large skillet
* Baking sheet or pizza stone
* Spatula
* Knife
* Cutting board
### Instructions:
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it preheats.
2. **Sauté the Vegetables:** Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the black beans, corn, red bell pepper, red onion, and jalapeno (if using). Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are slightly softened.
3. **Season the Vegetables:** Stir in the chili powder and cumin. Cook for 1 minute more.
4. **Prepare the Crust:** If using a pre-made pizza crust, place it on a baking sheet or pizza stone. If using flour tortillas, you can either bake them individually or layer them on a baking sheet, overlapping slightly.
5. **Assemble the Pizza:** Spread the refried beans evenly over the pizza crust or tortillas. Then, spread the sautéed vegetables over the beans.
6. **Add Salsa and Cheese:** Spread the salsa over the vegetables and sprinkle with the shredded cheese.
7. **Bake the Pizza:** Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the crust is golden brown. If using tortillas, bake until they are crispy.
8. **Serve:** Let the pizza cool slightly before slicing and serving. Top with sour cream, guacamole, and chopped cilantro, if desired.
### Tips for Vegetarian Mexican Pizza:
* **Add More Vegetables:** Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the vegetables for an extra kick.
* **Use Different Types of Beans:** Pinto beans or white beans would also work well in this recipe.
* **Consider Adding Avocado:** Sliced avocado adds a creamy and healthy element to the pizza.
* **Top with a Fried Egg:** A fried egg adds protein and richness to the vegetarian pizza (cook separately and place on top after baking).
## Spicy Shrimp Mexican Pizza
If you love seafood, this spicy shrimp Mexican pizza will become a new favorite. The combination of the seasoned shrimp with the creamy avocado is amazing.
**Yields:** 6-8 servings
**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Cook time:** 12-15 minutes
### Ingredients:
* 1 large (12-inch) pre-made pizza crust or 6-8 flour tortillas (6-8 inches)
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
* 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
* 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
* 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice)
* 1 cup refried black beans
* 1/2 cup roasted red pepper salsa
* 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
* 1 avocado, thinly sliced
* 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
* 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
* Lime wedges, for serving
### Equipment:
* Large skillet
* Baking sheet or pizza stone
* Spatula
* Knife
* Cutting board
### Instructions:
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it preheats.
2. **Prepare the Shrimp:** In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, taco seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Make sure the shrimp is evenly coated with the spices.
3. **Cook the Shrimp:** Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until pink and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as it will become rubbery.
4. **Prepare the Crust:** If using a pre-made pizza crust, place it on a baking sheet or pizza stone. If using flour tortillas, you can either bake them individually or layer them on a baking sheet, overlapping slightly.
5. **Assemble the Pizza:** Spread the refried black beans evenly over the pizza crust or tortillas. Then, spread the roasted red pepper salsa over the beans.
6. **Add Cheese and Shrimp:** Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the salsa. Top with the cooked shrimp.
7. **Bake the Pizza:** Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the crust is golden brown. If using tortillas, bake until they are crispy.
8. **Add Fresh Toppings:** Remove the pizza from the oven and top with sliced avocado, red onion, and chopped cilantro.
9. **Serve:** Slice and serve immediately with lime wedges.
### Tips for Spicy Shrimp Mexican Pizza:
* **Use Fresh Shrimp:** Fresh shrimp will have the best flavor and texture for this recipe.
* **Don’t Overcook the Shrimp:** Overcooked shrimp is tough and rubbery. Cook until just pink and opaque.
* **Adjust the Spice Level:** Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking.
* **Refried Black Beans:** Refried black beans add a different flavor profile than the traditional refried beans.
* **Lime Juice is Essential:** The lime wedges add a bright acidity that complements the spicy shrimp.
## Gluten-Free Mexican Pizza Recipe
For those who are gluten-free, you don’t have to miss out on the fun! This recipe uses a gluten-free pizza crust or tortillas.
**Yields:** 6-8 servings
**Prep time:** 15 minutes
**Cook time:** 15 minutes
### Ingredients:
* 1 gluten-free pizza crust (12-inch) or 6-8 gluten-free tortillas (6-8 inches)
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 pound ground beef or turkey
* 1 packet (1 ounce) gluten-free taco seasoning
* 1 cup refried beans (check label to ensure gluten-free)
* 1 cup salsa (check label to ensure gluten-free)
* 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican blend cheese
* 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
* 1/4 cup chopped red onion
* 1/4 cup sliced black olives
* 1/4 cup sliced jalapenos (optional)
* Sour cream, for serving (optional)
* Guacamole, for serving (optional)
* Chopped cilantro, for garnish (optional)
### Equipment:
* Large skillet
* Baking sheet or pizza stone
* Spatula
* Knife
* Cutting board
### Instructions:
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it preheats.
2. **Cook the Ground Meat:** Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or turkey and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned. Drain any excess grease.
3. **Season the Meat:** Stir in the gluten-free taco seasoning and 1/4 cup of water. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. **Prepare the Crust:** Place the gluten-free pizza crust on a baking sheet or pizza stone. If using gluten-free tortillas, you can either bake them individually or layer them on a baking sheet, overlapping slightly.
5. **Assemble the Pizza:** Spread the refried beans evenly over the pizza crust or tortillas. Then, spread the seasoned ground meat over the beans.
6. **Add Salsa and Cheese:** Spread the salsa over the meat and sprinkle with the shredded cheese.
7. **Add Toppings:** Top with chopped tomatoes, red onion, black olives, and jalapenos (if using).
8. **Bake the Pizza:** Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the crust is golden brown. If using tortillas, bake until they are crispy.
9. **Serve:** Let the pizza cool slightly before slicing and serving. Top with sour cream, guacamole, and chopped cilantro, if desired.
### Tips for Gluten-Free Mexican Pizza:
* **Check Labels Carefully:** Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free, including taco seasoning, refried beans, and salsa.
* **Use Gluten-Free Tortillas:** Gluten-free tortillas can be more fragile than regular tortillas. Handle them with care.
* **Consider a Cauliflower Crust:** A cauliflower crust is a naturally gluten-free option that adds extra nutrients.
* **Pre-Bake the Gluten-Free Crust:** Pre-baking the crust for a few minutes before adding the toppings can help prevent it from becoming soggy.
* **Be Mindful of Cross-Contamination:** If you are highly sensitive to gluten, be sure to use separate cutting boards and utensils to avoid cross-contamination.
## Creative Mexican Pizza Variations
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipes, feel free to get creative with your own variations. Here are some ideas to get you started:
* **Breakfast Mexican Pizza:** Top with scrambled eggs, chorizo, cheese, and salsa.
* **Dessert Mexican Pizza:** Use a cinnamon-sugar tortilla crust and top with fruit, whipped cream, and chocolate sauce.
* **BBQ Chicken Mexican Pizza:** Use BBQ sauce instead of salsa and top with shredded BBQ chicken, red onion, and cilantro.
* **Hawaiian Mexican Pizza:** Add pineapple and ham to your Mexican pizza for a sweet and savory twist.
* **Buffalo Chicken Mexican Pizza:** Use buffalo wing sauce instead of salsa and top with shredded buffalo chicken, blue cheese crumbles, and celery.
## Serving Suggestions
Mexican pizza is delicious on its own, but here are some serving suggestions to make it a complete meal:
* **Serve with a side salad:** A simple green salad or a Mexican-inspired salad with corn, black beans, and avocado.
* **Serve with chips and salsa:** For a true Mexican fiesta.
* **Serve with guacamole and sour cream:** For dipping.
* **Serve with a cold beer or margarita:** The perfect pairing for a spicy Mexican pizza.
## Storing and Reheating Leftovers
* **Storing:** Leftover Mexican pizza can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Place it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
* **Reheating:** To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pizza on a baking sheet and bake for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but the crust may become soggy.
## Conclusion
Mexican pizza is a fun, easy, and customizable dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With endless variations and simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal in minutes. So, gather your favorite toppings, preheat your oven, and get ready to spice up your life with these amazing Mexican pizza recipes! Experiment with different flavors and ingredients to discover your own signature Mexican pizza. Enjoy!