Pizza Enchiladas Ground Beef

Pizza enchiladas with ground beef bring together the oozy cheese flavor of a classic pizza and the comfort of saucy enchiladas These have become a crowd pleaser on game nights when my family is torn between pizza and Tex Mex I love how every bite delivers cheesy beefy goodness all wrapped up for easy serving

I first tried making these when my son was craving pizza but I wanted a cozier casserole ever since they get polished off quicker than I can make them

Ingredients

• Lean ground beef: for rich hearty filling Choose a higher quality beef for best flavor and less grease
• Yellow onion: enhances savoriness and adds a bit of sweetness Go for firm onions with shiny skin
• Green bell pepper: for crunch and color Select peppers that feel heavy for their size
• Pepperoni: classic pizza essence Try to use natural or uncured for better taste
• Garlic: for aromatic depth Freshly chopped gives the most punch
• Pizza sauce: provides the bold tomato base Pick a sauce with minimal added sugar
• Italian seasoning: brings those pizzeria flavors Choose a blend with oregano and basil for the most authentic taste
• Ricotta cheese: adds creaminess and a velvety bite Whole milk ricotta works best
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: classic cheese pull Look for whole milk mozzarella that melts beautifully
• Crumbled bacon: salty smokiness Use thick cut bacon for more texture
• Large flour tortillas: sturdy wrap for the filling Check for softness to avoid cracks
• Pizza sauce for topping: doubles down on flavor Stick to the same variety as the filling for harmony
• Shredded mozzarella cheese for topping: ensures every bite is cheesy
• Pepperoni slices on top: for a classic look Uncured or turkey pepperoni also works
• Crumbled bacon for topping: gives a crunchy finish

Instructions

Brown and Drain the Beef:

In a large skillet cook ground beef over medium high heat until well browned This step brings rich flavor and browning is key to a savory base Drain off any excess fat to keep the filling from getting greasy

Sauté Vegetables and Pepperoni:

Add diced onion chopped bell pepper and chopped pepperoni to the beef in the skillet Cook for several minutes until onion turns translucent and pepper softens The pepperoni brings out extra flavor as it heats

Add Garlic and Build the Mixture:

Stir in chopped garlic and let it cook just until fragrant usually one to two minutes This is when the flavors really meld together

Mix in Sauces Cheese and Bacon:

Add pizza sauce Italian seasoning ricotta cheese shredded mozzarella and crumbled bacon to the skillet Stir well until everything is combined and creamy The mixture should be evenly mixed so each bite is loaded with all the elements

Fill and Roll the Tortillas:

Lay out each flour tortilla on a clean surface Scoop a generous amount of the beef filling down the center of each tortilla Roll them up snugly and place seam side down on a greased baking sheet Lining them up close together keeps them moist

Add Sauce and Toppings:

Pour remaining pizza sauce evenly over the rolled enchiladas Sprinkle the rest of the shredded mozzarella cheese scatter pepperoni slices and bacon crumbles on top This is where you build that true pizza experience

Bake Until Golden and Bubbly:

Transfer the baking sheet to your oven Bake at three hundred seventy five degrees for twenty to twenty five minutes Until cheese is melted bubbling and begins to brown just a bit Let them rest for five minutes so they cut more easily

One time my daughter helped layer the toppings and we ended up with a double cheese version that everyone devoured

Storage Tips

Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days To reheat cover with foil and warm in a three hundred fifty degree oven until hot You can also microwave individual portions

Freezer Meal Conversion

To freeze assemble the enchiladas in a foil tray but do not bake Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to two months Bake from frozen at three hundred fifty degrees covering with foil for the first thirty minutes then uncovering until cheese is bubbly

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap ground turkey or plant based crumbles for the beef if desired If you are out of ricotta try cottage cheese Just press out any excess liquid before using Gluten free tortillas work as well but be gentle rolling them to prevent cracking

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a simple green salad and a side of marinara for dipping These are especially fun for parties served buffet style As leftovers my kids love the pieces stuffed into lunchbox sandwiches

Cultural Context

Pizza enchiladas beautifully combine Italian American pizza traditions with Tex Mex enchilada roots This mashup is all about comfort and sharing I like to think recipes like this show how adaptable and fun home cooking can be

Seasonal Adaptations

In late summer swap the green bell pepper for fire roasted red peppers Add fresh basil with the Italian seasoning Try smoked mozzarella for a wintery twist

Helpful Notes

Great for meal prep as they keep their texture well You can use a mix of cheeses for extra flavor depth To make spicy add chili flakes to the filling One holiday I made these using leftover Christmas ham instead of bacon and my family declared them a new tradition

These pizza enchiladas are sure to be a hit for all ages and can be tweaked to your own favorites Try them once and they could become a new family tradition

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I substitute the ground beef with another meat?

Yes, try ground turkey, chicken, or sausage for a flavorful alternative. Adjust seasonings to suit your chosen protein.

→ What tortillas work best for this dish?

Large flour tortillas are ideal since they are sturdy and roll well around the hearty filling, holding up during baking.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Swap ground beef for plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms and increase veggie content for a satisfying vegetarian option.

→ What side dishes pair well with this meal?

Serve with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or seasoned rice to complement the bold flavors and cheesy filling.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble tortillas with filling, cover and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for fresh, melty results.