Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is quick, easy, and full of flavor. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or anytime you’re craving something savory and satisfying. The spiced beef topping and taco-inspired seasoning give it a fun and unique twist that kids and adults both enjoy. Plus, it’s customizable—add your favorite toppings and make it your own!
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
ground beef
taco seasoning
water
pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
refried beans (optional for added texture)
salsa or enchilada sauce
shredded cheddar cheese
shredded mozzarella cheese
diced onions (optional)
sliced black olives (optional)
diced tomatoes (optional)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Add taco seasoning and water to the beef. Simmer until thickened, then remove from heat.
- Roll out the pizza dough onto a greased baking sheet or pizza pan.
- (Optional) Spread a thin layer of refried beans over the dough for added richness.
- Spread salsa or enchilada sauce evenly over the dough.
- Sprinkle the seasoned beef over the sauce layer.
- Top with shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and any optional toppings like onions or olives.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 6 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Fiestada: Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or spicy salsa for more heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the beef and load up with beans, corn, peppers, and onions.
- Chicken Fiestada: Use shredded taco-seasoned chicken instead of beef.
- Cheesy Crust: Brush the crust with garlic butter and sprinkle with cheese before baking.
- Mini Fiestadas: Make individual pizzas using smaller rounds of dough or even tortillas.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store leftover pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes or until warmed through, or microwave individual slices for 1-2 minutes.
FAQs
What is a Fiestada pizza?
Fiestada pizza is a Mexican-style school lunch pizza, typically topped with seasoned beef, cheese, and taco-style flavors.
Can I use premade pizza crust?
Yes, a store-bought crust or dough works great and saves time.
What kind of cheese is best for Fiestada pizza?
A blend of cheddar and mozzarella offers both flavor and melty texture, but you can also use a Mexican cheese blend.
Can I freeze Fiestada pizza?
Yes, wrap it tightly after cooling and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
Is salsa or enchilada sauce better for the base?
Either works—salsa adds a chunky, fresh texture, while enchilada sauce gives a smoother, spicier base.
Can I add toppings after baking?
Yes, fresh toppings like diced tomatoes, avocado, or cilantro can be added after baking for freshness.
How do I keep the crust from getting soggy?
Pre-bake the crust for 5 minutes before adding toppings to help it stay crisp.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely. Ground turkey works well with the same seasoning and is a leaner option.
What sides go well with Fiestada pizza?
Mexican rice, a simple salad, or chips and guacamole pair perfectly with this pizza.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, just use a gluten-free pizza crust and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Conclusion
Mexican Fiestada Pizza is a fun, flavorful way to enjoy the best of two cuisines in one dish. Whether you’re reminiscing about school lunch or trying it for the first time, this easy recipe delivers bold flavors with minimal effort. It’s a family favorite that’s perfect for pizza night with a twist.
PrintMexican Fiestada Pizza
Mexican Fiestada Pizza is a nostalgic fusion of Mexican and American flavors, topped with seasoned beef, zesty sauce, and melty cheese over a soft crust—just like the classic school lunch favorite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 2/3 cup water
- 1 ball pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup refried beans (optional)
- 1/2 cup salsa or enchilada sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup diced onions (optional)
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
- 1/4 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Add taco seasoning and water to the beef. Simmer until thickened, then remove from heat.
- Roll out the pizza dough onto a greased baking sheet or pizza pan.
- (Optional) Spread a thin layer of refried beans over the dough for added richness.
- Spread salsa or enchilada sauce evenly over the dough.
- Sprinkle the seasoned beef over the sauce layer.
- Top with shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and optional toppings like onions, olives, or tomatoes.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Pre-bake crust for 5 minutes to prevent sogginess.
- Use a Mexican cheese blend for extra flavor.
- Customize with your favorite toppings.
- Add fresh toppings like cilantro or avocado after baking.
- Great for freezing and reheating later.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/6 of pizza)
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
