Introduction to Pizza Enchiladas Ground Beef
I get it, I’m a busy mom, and I know how crazy weeknights can get. With so much up in the air, it feels like a small victory when dinner happens at all! Enter my Pizza Enchiladas Ground Beef: a fun spin consolidating all your favorite pizza’s soul-warming flavors with enchiladas’ comfort. These super cheesy, tasty little bundles will win over your crew so that dinner feels more like an occasion and less of a hassle. Let’s make it your culinary journey; let’s change your kitchen into a paradise of flavors!
Why You’ll Love This Pizza Enchiladas Ground Beef
This recipe is a real lifesaver for busy moms like me! Not only can you whip up these Pizza Enchiladas Ground Beef in just 40 minutes, but they’re also a surefire crowd-pleaser. Each bite is an explosion of gooey cheese and savory flavors that feels like a warm hug. Plus, with all the fun ingredients, I assure you, even picky eaters won’t turn up their noses!
Ingredients for Pizza Enchiladas Ground Beef
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delicious Pizza Enchiladas Ground Beef. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Lean ground beef: The star of the show, providing rich flavor and protein.
- Diced yellow onion: Adds a sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish.
- Green bell pepper: For a refreshing crunch and vibrant color.
- Chopped pepperoni: Because what’s pizza without it? A savory touch.
- Chopped garlic: A must for aromatic goodness.
- Pizza sauce: The secret sauce that ties all the flavors together.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs for that classic pizza taste.
- Ricotta cheese: For creaminess and added richness in each bite.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, creating that ooey-gooey texture we crave.
- Crumbling bacon: For a smoky, savory note that elevates the dish.
- Flour tortillas: The perfect vessel for all your delicious fillings.
- Additional pizza sauce: Drizzled on top for added flavor and moisture.
- More shredded mozzarella: We can’t have too much cheese, right?
- Pepperoni slices: For decorative and delicious toppings.
- Extra crumbled bacon: Because bacon makes everything better!
Feel free to customize these ingredients according to your family’s preferences. You could swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or even a plant-based substitute for a lighter version. The ingredients with exact quantities are listed at the bottom of the article and are available for printing!
How to Make Pizza Enchiladas Ground Beef
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first—set your oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures a warm, welcoming environment that helps your Pizza Enchiladas Ground Beef bake evenly. While you gather your ingredients and prep your filling, the oven will do the work of getting ready.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add your lean ground beef. Cook it until it’s evenly browned, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. When it’s done, drain any excess fat, but keep in mind that a little bit of fat can add flavor. For an extra kick, sprinkle in some salt and pepper while you’re cooking!
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables and Pepperoni
Once the beef is browned, toss in the diced yellow onion, green bell pepper, and chopped pepperoni. Stir it around and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the veggies soften. This step is where the magic happens; the aromas will fill your kitchen with the comforting scents of pizza party bliss!
Step 4: Mix in the Cheesy Filling
Now, it’s time to create that heavenly cheesy filling! Stir in chopped garlic, your pizza sauce, and Italian seasoning. Once that’s all mixed together, fold in the ricotta and 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, along with the crumbled bacon. Mix it all until it’s well combined and heated through. You’ll want to sneak a little taste—trust me.
Step 5: Roll the Tortillas
Take your flour tortillas and lay them flat on a clean surface. Spoon the beef mixture evenly down the center of each tortilla, then roll them tightly. Secure the filling by tucking in the ends and placing them seam-side down on your baking sheet. It’s a bit like wrapping a present, and who doesn’t love a surprise?
Step 6: Assemble and Add Sauce
Now, gently place each rolled tortilla in a greased baking dish. Then, pour the additional pizza sauce over the enchiladas, making sure every nook and cranny is covered. Finally, sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella and lay out your pepperoni slices and crumbled bacon on top. More cheese? Yes, please!
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and let it work its magic. Bake for about 20 to 25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Keep an eye on it—the sight of that melted cheese will make your heart skip a beat. Let it cool slightly before serving; that way, no one burns their tongue on all that deliciousness!
Tips for Success
- Chop your vegetables evenly for consistent cooking.
- Don’t overfill the tortillas; a little filling goes a long way!
- For a crispier texture, place the enchiladas under the broiler for the last few minutes.
- Experiment with different toppings, like fresh basil or sliced olives.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes after baking to set before serving.
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet: A non-stick pan is ideal for cooking the beef and veggies.
- Baking dish: Any oven-safe dish will do; just make sure it’s large enough!
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and mixing without scratching your pans.
- Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping up veggies and pepperoni.
- Measuring cups: Helpful for accurate ingredient portions.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for black beans or lentils for a hearty vegetarian twist.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the filling for extra heat.
- Cheese Lovers: Use a blend of different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free: Opt for corn tortillas instead of flour to make it a gluten-free dish.
- Loaded Toppings: Top with fresh veggies like spinach or arugula right before serving for a fresh touch.
Serving Suggestions for Pizza Enchiladas Ground Beef
- Pair your enchiladas with a fresh garden salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette.
- Serve with spicy salsa or guacamole for an extra burst of flavor.
- A glass of iced tea or lemonade complements the meal beautifully.
- For a fun presentation, garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves.
FAQs about Pizza Enchiladas Ground Beef
Can I make Pizza Enchiladas Ground Beef ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the enchiladas a day ahead and store them covered in the fridge. Just add the sauce and cheese right before baking to maintain freshness.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
For a delicious vegetarian version, use black beans, lentils, or beyond meat crumbles instead of ground beef. Load up on your favorite veggies to keep it hearty!
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
If you’re out of ricotta, cream cheese works too! You can also use cottage cheese or even a dairy-free substitute if you prefer.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick meal!
Can I freeze Pizza Enchiladas Ground Beef?
Yes, you can freeze them before or after baking! Just make sure to wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the oven from the freezer—adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Final Thoughts
Cooking is all about creating joy, and my Pizza Enchiladas Ground Beef recipe brings just that. With every cheesy bite, you’ll feel the warmth of home and the happiness of family gatherings. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual get-together, these enchiladas transform dinner into a mini celebration. Plus, they inspire laughter and vibrant conversations around the table. I hope this recipe becomes a cherished part of your family’s culinary adventures—just like it has in mine! So roll up those tortillas and get ready for a delicious journey that everyone will love.
Print
Pizza Enchiladas Ground Beef
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Pizza Enchiladas Ground Beef are a delicious combination of your favorite pizza flavors wrapped in tortillas, baked with gooey cheese and savory toppings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 cup diced yellow onion
- 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
- 3 ounces chopped pepperoni
- 1 tablespoon chopped garlic
- 1/3 cup pizza sauce
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/3 cup crumbled bacon
- 8 large flour tortillas
- 2 cups pizza sauce (for topping)
- 2 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
- Pepperoni slices as needed (for topping)
- 1/4 cup crumbled bacon (for topping)
Instructions
- Set oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and allow to preheat.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until evenly browned, then drain any excess fat.
- Add diced onion, green bell pepper, and chopped pepperoni to the skillet. Continue to sauté until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in chopped garlic and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add 1/3 cup pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, ricotta, 1 cup shredded mozzarella, and 1/3 cup crumbled bacon to the skillet. Mix until combined and heated through.
- Distribute the beef mixture evenly down the center of each flour tortilla, then roll tightly.
- Place each filled tortilla seam-side down on a greased baking sheet. Pour 2 cups pizza sauce over the enchiladas.
- Sprinkle 2 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella, desired pepperoni slices, and 1/4 cup crumbled bacon evenly over the top.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and golden brown.
Notes
- For a spicier version, you can add jalapeños to the filling.
- Feel free to adjust the toppings based on your personal taste.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 enchilada
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
