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Pizza enchiladas with pepperoni beef combine the best of two classics in one comforting dish that disappears fast from the table. This hearty meal is layered with creamy ricotta, savory beef, bubbling cheese, and the spicy crispness of pepperoni, all wrapped in soft tortillas and drenched in pizza sauce. It is a weeknight favorite that feels as festive as a pizza party, but effortless enough to whip up for a casual dinner.
The first time I made these, they brought the whole family running to the kitchen. The scent that filled the house was pure comfort, and everyone had seconds. It is now our go to when we cannot decide between Italian or Mexican food.
Ingredients
- Lean ground beef: hearty filling and rich meaty flavor, look for bright red beef with minimal fat
- Yellow onion: adds natural sweetness and balance, choose firm onions with a papery skin
- Green bell pepper: gives crunch and fresh pepper flavor, pick glossy peppers without soft spots
- Pepperoni: chopped in the filling gives a spicy kick and classic pizza taste, thick cut is best for big flavor
- Garlic: chopped infuses the dish with aromatic depth, use fresh garlic cloves for bold taste
- Pizza sauce: brings all pizza flavors together, look for a sauce with tomatoes as the main ingredient
- Italian seasoning: blends fragrant herbs, adds an earthy backbone, try a fresh jar for best flavor
- Ricotta cheese: makes the filling creamy and adds lightness, choose a smooth fresh ricotta
- Mozzarella cheese (shredded): stretches and melts beautifully, go for whole milk mozzarella for richness
- Bacon (crumbled): adds smoky notes, use a thick cut for more texture
- Large flour tortillas: wrap everything up, select ones that feel soft and pliable
- Pizza sauce (for topping): brings deep tomato flavor
- Mozzarella cheese (shredded, for topping): covers the top for that pizza finish
- Pepperoni slices (for topping): on top get crisp and irresistible
- Bacon (crumbled, for topping): on top intensifies the savory bite
Instructions
- Brown the Beef:
- Place a large skillet over medium high heat and add the ground beef. Use a spoon to crumble the beef and cook it fully until all the pink is gone. This step creates a flavorful foundation for the enchiladas.
- Soften the Vegetables and Pepperoni:
- Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and chopped pepperoni to the skillet with the beef. Stir well and cook for five to seven minutes so the vegetables become tender and the pepperoni releases its fragrant oils. This deepens the overall flavor.
- Bloom the Garlic:
- Add chopped garlic to the skillet and cook just for two minutes. The garlic should become very fragrant but not browned as burning it can make it bitter. Remove the skillet from the heat once you smell the garlic.
- Mix Filling Ingredients:
- Add pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, and crumbled bacon into the skillet. Mix everything very well so the filling is creamy and homogenous. This is what makes the enchiladas so flavorful and moist.
- Fill and Roll Tortillas:
- Spread out each tortilla and place a portion of the beef mixture in the center. Roll up each tortilla tightly and set seam side down in a greased baking dish. This helps them stay closed and neat during baking.
- Add Toppings:
- Pour the rest of the pizza sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas. Scatter shredded mozzarella on top, arrange pepperoni slices, and finish with crumbled bacon for extra crunch and flavor.
- Bake and Rest:
- Bake in a preheated oven at 190 degrees Celsius for about twenty to twenty five minutes until the top is bubbly and golden. Allow the dish to cool for about five minutes before serving so the filling settles and slices hold their shape.
Mozzarella is my favorite part here because of how stretchy and gooey it becomes. I remember one family movie night when the cheese pulled longer than my nephew’s arm and everyone burst out laughing at the dinner table.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in the refrigerator in a sealed container for up to three days. Reheat in the oven to preserve the texture or use the microwave if you are in a rush. You can assemble the dish ahead of time and bake it just before serving to save time on busy weeknights.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version. Try jarred marinara sauce in place of pizza sauce if needed. Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese can be swapped for mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Top slices with a dollop of sour cream or sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley. Serve alongside a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It is also delicious with a simple tomato cucumber salad for refreshment.
Cultural Twist
Pizza enchiladas merge Italian and Mexican American comfort food traditions. This is a perfect example of the creativity that comes from blending culinary cultures and making something new from the familiar.
Seasonal Adaptations
Add sliced tomatoes or roasted zucchini in summer for brightness. Use sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions during colder months. Pick a spicy Italian sausage in winter for more warmth.
Success Stories
Friends who claimed they could never pick between pizza and tacos were instantly hooked. My neighbor now asks for the recipe every time I bring it to block parties. Kids love helping roll the tortillas and sprinkle the toppings.
Freezer Meal Conversion
After rolling the filled tortillas in the baking dish, cover tightly and freeze before baking. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight then add toppings and bake as directed for a super easy weeknight dinner.
No matter how you serve these, pizza enchiladas make every meal feel like a celebration. The fusion of flavors and gooey cheese are sure to become a new family tradition.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use another type of meat instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or pork all work well, offering different flavors and textures to the filling.
- → Is there a substitute for ricotta cheese?
Cottage cheese or cream cheese can replace ricotta for a creamy texture, though flavor will vary slightly.
- → Should the tortillas be warmed before assembling?
Warming tortillas makes them pliable and easier to roll without tearing during assembly.
- → Can I assemble ahead for meal prep?
Absolutely! Assemble, cover, and refrigerate. Add toppings and bake when ready to serve for best results.
- → What sides complement this dish?
A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables add freshness to balance the rich cheesy flavors of the main course.