Save This
This fusion dish combines the best of Italian and Mexican cuisines into one family-pleasing meal. Pizza enchiladas transform ordinary weeknight dinners into something special with their cheesy filling and savory toppings that will have everyone asking for seconds.
My kids actually cheer when they see these on the dinner table. I created this recipe one Friday when I couldn't decide between pizza night and Mexican food, and it's been our most requested meal ever since.
Ingredients
- Lean ground beef: creates the hearty base for your filling without excess grease
- Yellow onion and green bell pepper: add essential aromatics and a boost of vegetables
- Pepperoni: brings that unmistakable pizza flavor both inside and on top of the enchiladas
- Chopped garlic: provides depth of flavor that elevates the entire dish
- Pizza sauce: pulls double duty in the filling and as the enchilada topping sauce
- Italian seasoning: blends multiple herbs in one convenient addition
- Ricotta cheese: creates a creamy texture inside the enchiladas that balances the savory meat
- Shredded mozzarella: melts beautifully both in the filling and as the golden top layer
- Crumbled bacon: adds smoky flavor and crispy texture contrast throughout
- Large flour tortillas: work better than corn for rolling these substantial enchiladas
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef:
- Cook the lean ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until no pink remains. Take your time breaking it into small crumbles as it cooks for the best texture throughout your enchiladas. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add the Vegetables:
- Once your beef is browned, add the diced onions, bell peppers, and chopped pepperoni to the same skillet. Stir everything together and cook until the vegetables soften and become aromatic, about 3 to 4 minutes. The pepperoni will release some of its flavorful oils into the mixture.
- Incorporate the Garlic:
- Add the chopped garlic to your skillet and stir continuously for 2 minutes. This brief cooking time allows the garlic to release its flavor without burning, which would create bitterness in your dish.
- Create the Filling Mixture:
- Remove the skillet from heat and add your binding ingredients pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, and crumbled bacon. Stir thoroughly until you have a cohesive, creamy filling mixture where all components are evenly distributed.
- Assemble the Enchiladas:
- Lay out your flour tortillas on a clean work surface and spoon approximately 1/3 cup of filling down the center of each. Roll them up tightly, tucking in the sides if possible to prevent filling from escaping during baking.
- Prepare for Baking:
- Spray your baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange your rolled enchiladas seam-side down in the dish, placing them close together but not squishing them.
- Add the Toppings:
- Pour the pizza sauce evenly over your rolled enchiladas, making sure to cover them completely. This sauce will bake into the tortillas, adding flavor and keeping them moist. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top, then arrange the pepperoni slices and finish with the crumbled bacon.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place your baking dish in the preheated 375°F oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Look for melted cheese that's starting to brown slightly at the edges and bubbly sauce around the sides of the dish.
Save This
This recipe came from my Italian grandmother and Mexican grandfather arguing over what to cook for Sunday dinner. Eventually, they combined forces and created this hybrid dish that satisfied both sides of the family. Now it's the one meal everyone agrees on when the extended family gets together.
Make Ahead Options
These enchiladas are perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the entire dish up to the point of baking, cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and refrigerate for up to 48 hours. When ready to serve, remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking to take the chill off, then bake as directed, adding about 10 minutes to the cooking time. The flavors actually develop and improve with a little time in the refrigerator.
Crowd-Pleasing Variations
For vegetarian guests, substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or a mixture of black beans and finely chopped mushrooms sautéed with the same seasonings. Kids typically love a version with mini pepperoni inside and extra cheese. For spice lovers, add diced jalapeños to the filling and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes on top before baking. You can even make a breakfast version using scrambled eggs and breakfast sausage in the filling topped with cheddar cheese.
Save This
Serving Suggestions
These hearty enchiladas need simple sides to balance the meal. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly. For authentic Mexican flair, serve with a side of cilantro lime rice and refried beans. If you're going more Italian, garlic bread makes a great accompaniment. Top individual servings with fresh additions like diced avocado, a dollop of sour cream, chopped fresh basil, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to let everyone customize their plate.
Common Queries
- → Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?
Flour tortillas hold the filling and roll easily, but you can substitute corn tortillas if preferred. Warm them to keep from cracking.
- → What toppings work well with this dish?
In addition to pepperoni and mozzarella, try adding sliced olives, sautéed mushrooms, or fresh basil for more flavor.
- → Is it possible to make this ahead?
Yes. Assemble the filled tortillas and refrigerate, covered, for up to a day. Add sauce and cheese before baking.
- → Can I freeze leftovers?
These enchiladas freeze well. Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat until hot.
- → How can I make this dish less spicy?
Use mild pepperoni and pizza sauce, and skip spicy toppings to keep the flavors kid-friendly and mild.
- → What side dishes pair well?
Try a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a balanced and satisfying meal.