Introduction
Mexican pizzas are a delightful fusion of flavors, combining the beloved elements of pizza with the vibrant tastes of Mexican cuisine. These freezer-friendly Mexican pizzas are perfect for busy weeknights, offering a quick, easy, and delicious meal option that the whole family will enjoy. With customizable toppings and a crispy crust, it’s a dish that shines in both taste and convenience.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Pizza dough: 2 crusts
– Refried beans: 1 cup
– Ground beef: 1 pound
– Taco seasoning: 1 packet
– Salsa: 1 cup
– Shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend): 2 cups
– Sliced jalapeños: 1/4 cup (optional)
– Chopped fresh tomatoes: 1/2 cup
– Chopped green onions: 1/4 cup
– Sour cream for serving: Optional
Prep Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: Makes 2 large pizzas
These Mexican pizzas provide a hearty meal and can easily be customized with your favorite toppings. Whether enjoyed fresh or pulled from the freezer for a quick dinner, they are sure to become a family favorite!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Dough
Combine warm water, yeast, and sugar in a bowl. Let it sit until foamy, about 5 minutes. In a separate larger bowl, mix flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture to the flour, stirring until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth, then let it rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
Prepare the Sauce
In a saucepan, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion until soft, then add minced garlic and continue cooking until fragrant. Stir in tomato sauce, spices, and salt. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until thickened.
Prepare the Toppings
While the sauce simmers, prepare your desired toppings such as cooked ground beef, beans, cheese, and vegetables. Pre-cook any raw ingredients that require cooking.
Roll Out the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into equal portions. Roll out each portion into a circle about ¼ inch thick. Preheat the oven to 220°C (430°F).
Assemble the Pizzas
Spread a layer of sauce over each rolled-out dough. Add a base layer of cheese, then your choice of toppings, followed by more cheese on top.
Bake the Pizzas
Place the assembled pizzas on a baking sheet or pizza stone. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove the pizzas from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Slice into pieces and serve hot.
Freezing Instructions
If you want to freeze the pizzas, let them cool completely. Wrap each pizza tightly in plastic wrap and then store in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Notes
Variations
Feel free to customize the toppings based on your preferences. You can use different proteins, vegetables, and cheeses to create unique flavor combinations.
Serving Suggestions
These Mexican pizzas can be served with sides like guacamole, sour cream, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat frozen pizzas, bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them for a quicker option, though the texture may not be as crisp.
Cook techniques
Cooking the Base
Utilize pre-made pizza bases or tortillas for convenience. Bake or toast them briefly to achieve a crisp texture, which adds structure to the pizza.
Layering Ingredients
Start with a base layer of sauce, followed by cheese, and then your choice of toppings. This will ensure an even melt and prevent sogginess.
Baking Perfectly
Use a hot oven to achieve a golden and bubbly pizza. The high temperature ensures that the toppings cook quickly without drying out.
Freezing for Later
Assemble pizzas without baking, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. This allows for a quick meal option later without compromising quality.
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover cooked pizzas can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat them in the oven to restore crispness.
FAQ
Can I use different toppings?
Yes, feel free to customize the toppings based on your preferences.
How do I prevent a soggy crust?
Pre-baking the base and ensuring you don’t overload on sauce will help keep the crust crispy.
Can I make these pizzas ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and assemble the pizzas ahead of time and freeze them for later use.
What type of sauce works best?
A classic pizza sauce, tomato salsa, or even a barbecue sauce can work well, depending on your taste preference.
How long can I freeze the pizzas?
Cooked pizzas can typically be frozen for up to 2-3 months without major loss of flavor or texture.
Conclusion
The Mexican pizzas are a delightful and versatile dish that combines the flavors of traditional Mexican cuisine with the beloved format of pizza. Their freezer-friendly nature makes them an ideal meal prep option, allowing you to enjoy a quick and tasty dinner any night of the week. Whether you prefer them spicy, cheesy, or loaded with toppings, these pizzas are sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your family and friends.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetarian Mexican Pizza
Opt for a vegetarian version by using refried beans, black beans, and an array of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and corn. Top it off with plenty of cheese and fresh cilantro.
Chicken Enchilada Pizza
Transform your pizza into a chicken enchilada version by using shredded chicken, enchilada sauce, and a blend of Mexican cheeses. Add sliced olives and green onions for extra flavor.
Breakfast Mexican Pizza
Create a breakfast twist by topping your pizza with scrambled eggs, chorizo, and a sprinkle of jalapeños. Finish with a drizzle of salsa and fresh avocado.
Beef Taco Pizza
For a hearty option, use seasoned ground beef, diced tomatoes, and taco sauce. Garnish with lettuce, cheese, and sour cream after baking to mimic the classic beef taco experience.
BBQ Chicken Mexican Pizza
Combine BBQ sauce with shredded chicken for a smoky flavor. Top with red onions and cilantro for a fusion twist that balances sweetness with spice.
Seafood Mexican Pizza
Try a unique seafood variation by using shrimp or fish with a zesty lime crema. Top it with fresh cabbage and avocado for a refreshing taste.