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This comforting fusion dish brings together the bold flavors of pizza and the hearty warmth of enchiladas into one irresistible meal. Perfect for dinner gatherings or a family night in, these pizza enchiladas combine ground beef, pepperoni, and cheese wrapped in tortillas, smothered with pizza sauce, and topped with gooey melted cheese. It's a recipe that impresses with minimal effort yet delivers maximum flavor.
I first tried this recipe when my cousin suggested it for our family game night. It was an instant hit, and now it’s in our regular dinner rotation.
Ingredients
- Ground beef 450g: Provides the rich and savory base for the filling
- Yellow onion 1 cup diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and texture
- Green bell pepper 1 medium diced: Brings a pop of freshness and crunch
- Pepperoni 85g chopped: Infuses classic pizza flavor in every bite
- Garlic 1 tablespoon chopped: Boosts flavor depth
- Pizza sauce 80ml: Binds the ingredients with its tomato-rich essence
- Italian seasoning 1 tablespoon: Gives authentic pizza-like seasoning
- Ricotta cheese 250g: Adds creaminess to balance the savory flavors
- Mozzarella cheese 100g shredded: Melts beautifully into the filling
- Bacon 40g crumbled: Adds a smoky crunch to the mix
- Flour tortillas 8 large: Perfect for wrapping all that delicious filling
- Pizza sauce 480ml: The base of the enchilada topping
- Mozzarella cheese 250g shredded: Covers the dish in melty goodness
- Pepperoni slices 85g: Classic pizza topping for the visual and flavor impact
- Bacon 30g crumbled: For extra texture and smokiness
How To Make Pizza Enchiladas
- Preheat the Oven:
- Set your oven to 190°C to ensure it’s hot and ready when it’s time to bake.
- Cook the Meat Filling:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef thoroughly until evenly browned. Crumble the meat consistently as it cooks for fine texture.
- Sauté Vegetables and Pepperoni:
- Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and chopped pepperoni to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and the pepperoni releases its oils, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add the Flavor Boosters:
- Mix garlic, Italian seasoning, and 80ml of pizza sauce into the skillet. Stir well to blend the flavors evenly. Remove from heat.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
- In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, and crumbled bacon. Stir until thoroughly mixed and creamy.
- Assemble the Enchiladas:
- Fill each tortilla with a generous portion of the meat mixture and cheese filling. Roll them tightly and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
- Build the Topping:
- Pour the remaining pizza sauce evenly over the enchiladas. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the top, then layer with pepperoni slices and crumbled bacon.
- Bake:
- Place the dish in the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let it cool slightly before serving.
The addition of the pepperoni is my favorite part because it reminds me of my father’s love for classic pepperoni pizzas. His laughter often filled the kitchen whenever we shared moments cooking together.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through for a quick weekday dinner.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you prefer a leaner option, swap ground beef for turkey or chicken. You can also use gluten-free tortillas for a gluten-sensitive version.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the rich, cheesy flavors. A side of roasted broccoli or a simple arugula apple salad works wonderfully.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can you substitute ground beef with another protein?
Yes, ground chicken, turkey, or plant-based meat alternatives work well as substitutes for ground beef.
- → What type of tortillas should I use?
Large flour tortillas are ideal for this dish as they hold the filling well and bake evenly.
- → Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the enchiladas ahead of time and bake them just before serving. Cover and refrigerate for up to a day.
- → What can I serve with this dish?
Pair these enchiladas with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover enchiladas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.