Introduction: A Flavor Fusion Like No Other

Imagine the rich, cheesy, and saucy goodness of pizza combined with the warmth, heartiness, and zest of enchiladas. Welcome to Pizza Enchiladas Ground Beef – a mouthwatering recipe that will satisfy your cravings for both pizza and Mexican food at the same time! With layers of seasoned ground beef, gooey cheese, flavorful marinara sauce, and crispy tortillas, this dish is a delicious twist on both classics.

Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, feeding a crowd, or just want something fun and comforting to try at home, these pizza enchiladas are an easy-to-make recipe that’s sure to please. The combination of ground beef, peppers, onions, and pepperoni topped with gooey melted cheese and served with a tangy pizza sauce creates an unforgettable meal experience.

Let’s get into the full details of how to make these Pizza Enchiladas Ground Beef!

Ingredients

To make these Pizza Enchiladas Ground Beef, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • For the Enchiladas:
    • 1 lb lean ground beef – You can use lean ground beef to keep it a bit lighter, but regular beef will work too for added richness.
    • 1 cup diced yellow onion – For a touch of sweetness and flavor to balance the richness of the beef.
    • 1 cup diced green bell pepper – Adds crunch and a pop of color, plus a fresh contrast to the cooked beef.
    • 8 flour tortillas – You can use corn tortillas if preferred, but flour tortillas give a soft texture that contrasts nicely with the filling.
    • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – The mozzarella gives that classic pizza melt, stretching and gooey.
    • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Adds a sharp flavor that complements the mozzarella and the beef.
    • 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni – A must for that pizza flavor! You can also substitute turkey pepperoni for a lighter option.
    • 1 can (15 oz) pizza sauce – The base of your “pizza” flavor, this will coat your enchiladas and keep them saucy and delicious.
  • For Seasoning:
    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds an aromatic touch to the beef mixture.
    • 1 teaspoon chili powder – For a bit of heat and depth of flavor.
    • 1 teaspoon cumin – Adds a savory undertone that pairs perfectly with the ground beef.
    • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes – For a little extra spice (optional).
    • Salt and pepper to taste – To season the beef and balance the flavors.
  • For Garnish:
    • Fresh parsley or cilantro – Optional but adds a fresh, herbaceous touch to the final dish.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Filling

  1. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the 1 lb of lean ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks.
  2. Drain the Fat: Once the beef is browned and cooked through, drain any excess fat if necessary.
  3. Add the Onions and Peppers: Add the 1 cup diced yellow onion and 1 cup diced green bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables have softened.
  4. Season the Beef: Add the 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine, making sure the spices coat the meat and vegetables evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure the enchiladas cook evenly and the cheese melts perfectly.

Step 3: Prepare the Tortillas

  1. Warm the Tortillas: Heat the 8 flour tortillas in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, or in a dry skillet for a few seconds on each side. This makes them more pliable and easier to roll up without tearing.

Step 4: Assemble the Enchiladas

  1. Spread Pizza Sauce: Pour a small amount of the pizza sauce into the bottom of a baking dish, spreading it evenly to coat the bottom.
  2. Fill the Tortillas: Take one tortilla and spoon a generous portion of the beef mixture into the center. Top with a little mozzarella cheese and a few pepperoni slices.
  3. Roll the Tortilla: Roll the tortilla tightly around the filling and place it seam side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
  4. Top the Enchiladas: Once all the tortillas are rolled and in the baking dish, pour the remaining pizza sauce over the top of the enchiladas. Sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese and cheddar cheese, then add more pepperoni slices on top for extra flavor.

Step 5: Bake the Enchiladas

  1. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. The enchiladas should be heated through, and the cheese should have a nice, gooey consistency.
  2. Optional Broil: If you want the top of the cheese to get extra golden and crispy, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, keeping an eye on the enchiladas to prevent burning.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

  1. Garnish: Once the enchiladas are out of the oven, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a burst of freshness and color.
  2. Serve: Slice the enchiladas into individual servings and enjoy with a side of sour cream, guacamole, or a fresh salad.

Nutritional Breakdown (per serving)

Each serving of Pizza Enchiladas Ground Beef is packed with flavor and filling ingredients. Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown:

  • Calories: ~400-450 kcal
  • Protein: ~25g
  • Carbohydrates: ~30g
  • Fat: ~25g
  • Fiber: ~3g

This is based on 4 servings per recipe. The exact nutrition may vary depending on the ingredients used, especially the type of cheese and the choice of tortillas.

Tips for Success

  1. Use Lean Ground Beef: For a healthier option, use lean ground beef to reduce the fat content. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the dish.
  2. Make Ahead: These pizza enchiladas are perfect for meal prep. You can assemble them ahead of time, cover them, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
  3. Add Veggies: Try adding more vegetables, like zucchini, mushrooms, or olives, to the beef mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
  4. Use Homemade Pizza Sauce: If you have the time, make your own pizza sauce for an extra layer of flavor. It’s easy to make and gives a personal touch to the dish.
  5. Make It Spicy: For extra heat, add chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture or top the enchiladas with spicy peppers.

Variations

There are plenty of ways to customize this recipe to fit your tastes:

  • Vegetarian Version: Omit the ground beef and replace it with black beans, quinoa, or even a veggie mix like corn, spinach, and zucchini for a hearty vegetarian version.
  • Add More Toppings: Get creative with your pizza toppings! Add ingredients like sausage, bacon, or even roasted garlic to the beef mixture for a flavor boost.
  • Cheese Lovers: Add different kinds of cheese to the filling, such as provolone, gouda, or Parmesan for a more decadent, cheesy experience.

Meal Prep and Storage

These Pizza Enchiladas Ground Beef are excellent for meal prepping:

  • Refrigerating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
  • Freezing: Assemble the enchiladas, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, let them thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
  • Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option.

FAQs

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
Yes, you can use corn tortillas, but flour tortillas give a softer texture. If using corn tortillas, you may need to warm them up a bit before rolling them to prevent cracking.

Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage for different flavor profiles.

How do I make this dish spicier?
To make the dish spicier, add jalapeños, chili flakes, or a bit of hot sauce to the beef mixture before rolling the tortillas.

Final Thoughts

Pizza Enchiladas Ground Beef are a fun, hearty, and utterly delicious fusion of two beloved dishes. They’re perfect for anyone who loves the flavors of pizza but wants to try something new and creative. Whether you’re feeding your family, hosting a party, or simply craving comfort food, these enchiladas are sure to impress. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy the savory goodness of this unique twist on pizza and enchiladas!