Homemade Mexican Pizza

### Instructions:

#### 1. **Prepare the Tortillas**:
Start by preheating your oven to **400°F (200°C)**. Place the flour tortillas on a baking sheet and lightly brush both sides with **olive oil**. This step ensures that your crust becomes crispy and golden during baking. You can also sprinkle a little bit of salt on top of the tortillas for added flavor. Bake them for **5-7 minutes** in the preheated oven, or until the edges are golden and crisp. Remove them from the oven and set aside.

#### 2. **Cook the Ground Beef**:
In a large skillet, cook the **ground beef** over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once the beef is browned and fully cooked, drain any excess fat. Add the **taco seasoning** and **salsa** to the meat mixture, stirring to combine. Simmer for about **2-3 minutes** to allow the flavors to meld together.

#### 3. **Assemble the Mexican Pizza**:
Once the tortillas have cooled slightly, start assembling your pizzas. Spread a thin layer of **refried beans** (or black beans) onto each tortilla. Next, evenly distribute the seasoned **ground beef** mixture over the beans.

#### 4. **Add the Toppings**:
Sprinkle both **cheddar cheese** and **mozzarella cheese** generously over the beef mixture. Top with finely chopped **onion**, **diced tomatoes**, **sliced black olives**, and **jalapeños** (if using). These ingredients add a pop of color and flavor to the pizza.

#### 5. **Bake the Pizza**:
Carefully return the assembled pizzas to the oven and bake for **7-10 minutes** or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the tortilla are golden brown. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the thickness of your tortillas.

#### 6. **Garnish and Serve**:
Once the pizzas are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a minute or two. Top with fresh **lettuce**, a dollop of **sour cream**, and a sprinkle of **chopped cilantro** for a burst of freshness. For an extra kick, drizzle with **taco sauce** or **salsa**.

### Why This Mexican Pizza Works

– **Tortilla Crust**: Instead of traditional pizza dough, the crispy flour tortillas provide a quick, delicious, and light alternative. The crunchy edges contrast beautifully with the melty cheese and savory beef.
– **Flavorful Filling**: The combination of **taco-seasoned beef**, **salsa**, and **refried beans** creates a flavor-packed base that’s both satisfying and rich. The melted cheese pulls everything together for the perfect bite every time.
– **Fresh Toppings**: By adding fresh ingredients like **tomatoes**, **onions**, and **lettuce**, you add brightness and crunch to balance the richness of the pizza. These toppings also make the dish more nutritious.

### Variations and Customizations

– **Vegetarian Mexican Pizza**: To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground beef with **black beans**, **refried beans**, or **grilled vegetables**. You can also add **avocado slices** for a creamy, satisfying touch.
– **Spicy Mexican Pizza**: For a spicier kick, add more **jalapeños** or use **spicy salsa**. You can also sprinkle some **crushed red pepper flakes** over the top for extra heat.
– **Make It Low-Carb**: Swap the flour tortillas for low-carb alternatives like **almond flour tortillas** or even **cauliflower crust** if you’re following a keto or low-carb diet.
– **Add Extra Protein**: For a heartier version, try adding some cooked **chicken**, **ground turkey**, or **chorizo** to the pizza for a protein-packed meal.
– **Cheese Variations**: Mix things up by using different cheeses, like **Monterey Jack**, **Queso Fresco**, or **Pepper Jack** for a different flavor profile.

### Why Mexican Pizza is a Winner

**Homemade Mexican Pizza** brings together the best of both worlds – the deliciousness of pizza and the bold flavors of Mexican cuisine. It’s easy to prepare, highly customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, a party, or just craving something tasty, this dish is a surefire way to please everyone.

The combination of crispy tortillas, savory seasoned beef, melty cheese, and fresh toppings makes this Mexican pizza a winner every time. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate more of your favorite Mexican flavors into your meals, all while keeping it fun and family-friendly.

Try this recipe tonight and bring the vibrant flavors of Mexican cuisine right to your dinner table!