Cheesy Ground Beef Enchiladas

This mouthwatering pizza enchilada fusion combines two beloved comfort foods into one irresistible dish. The savory ground beef filling wrapped in soft tortillas and topped with pizza sauce, melty cheese, and classic pizza toppings creates a family-friendly meal that satisfies both pizza and Mexican food cravings simultaneously.

I created this recipe when my children couldn't decide between pizza night and taco Tuesday. The compromise became our family's most requested dinner, appearing on our table at least twice a month during busy sports seasons.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: Forms the hearty base. Choose 90% lean for best flavor without excess grease
• Yellow onion and green bell pepper: Add essential aromatics and vegetables. Look for firm peppers with glossy skin
• Pepperoni: Brings that classic pizza flavor. Use mini pepperoni for easier chopping
• Fresh garlic: Provides aromatic depth. Always choose firm bulbs without sprouting
• Pizza sauce: Ties everything together. Select a thick variety for best results
• Italian seasoning: Infuses authentic pizza flavor. A blend with oregano, basil and thyme works best
• Ricotta cheese: Creates a creamy texture. Full-fat provides the richest results
• Mozzarella cheese: Delivers that iconic stretch. Fresh-grated melts more evenly than pre-shredded
• Beef bacon: Adds smokiness. Turkey bacon works as a lighter alternative
• Flour tortillas: Serve as the enchilada wrapper. Choose 10-inch size for easy rolling

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Beef:

Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until no pink remains, breaking it into small crumbles with your spatula. This should take about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary for a cleaner final flavor.

Add Vegetables and Pepperoni:

Introduce diced onion, green bell pepper, and chopped pepperoni to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook everything together for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The onions should become translucent and peppers should soften slightly but still retain some texture.

Incorporate Garlic:

Add the chopped garlic to the mixture and cook for an additional 2 minutes until wonderfully fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can quickly become bitter. The aroma will tell you when it's perfectly cooked.

Create the Filling Mixture:

Remove the skillet from heat and add pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, and crumbled beef bacon. Stir thoroughly until cheeses melt and incorporate completely into the meat mixture. The filling should be cohesive but not too runny.

Assemble the Enchiladas:

Lay out your flour tortillas on a clean work surface. Divide the filling evenly among them, placing it in a line down the center of each tortilla. Roll each tortilla tightly around the filling and place seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet, arranging them in a single layer.

Add Toppings:

Pour pizza sauce evenly over the rolled enchiladas, ensuring each is generously covered. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the sauce, then arrange pepperoni slices attractively on top. Finish by scattering crumbled beef bacon over everything for a final flavor boost.

Bake to Perfection:

Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Look for the cheese to be completely melted and beginning to brown in spots around the edges. The sauce should be bubbling gently around the enchiladas.

Rest and Serve:

Allow the finished dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This brief cooling period helps the cheese set slightly and makes the enchiladas easier to cut and serve without falling apart. The filling will be extremely hot, so this rest time prevents burned mouths.

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The pepperoni is truly the star ingredient in this fusion dish. I discovered its transformative power when making traditional enchiladas one night and my daughter requested we add her favorite pizza topping. The combination was so delicious that we never looked back, and now pepperoni makes an appearance in many of our family meals beyond just pizza night.

Make-Ahead Options

These enchiladas can be fully assembled up to 24 hours before baking. Simply cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove from refrigerator while preheating the oven and add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time since the dish will be starting cold. The flavors actually develop nicely during refrigeration, making this an excellent dish to prepare in advance for busy weeknights or when entertaining.

Easy Substitutions

This recipe welcomes personalization based on your family's preferences. Ground turkey can replace beef for a lighter option. Vegetarians can substitute a pound of sautéed mushrooms or plant-based meat alternative. For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños to the filling or mix red pepper flakes into the sauce. Lactose-sensitive diners can use dairy-free cheese alternatives though the texture will differ slightly. Corn tortillas can replace flour for a gluten-free version, but they should be briefly warmed before rolling to prevent cracking.

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Serving Suggestions

These hearty enchiladas shine as the centerpiece of your meal. Serve alongside a simple green salad dressed with olive oil and lemon juice to cut through the richness. A side of steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables balances the meal nicely. For a more elaborate spread, offer small bowls of additional toppings like sliced black olives, pickled jalapeños, and fresh chopped basil. Some family members might appreciate a side of warm marinara for extra dipping.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I substitute the ground beef with another protein?

Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even vegetarian options like lentils or plant-based crumbles for a different twist.

→ What type of tortillas work best?

Large flour tortillas work best for this dish because they're soft, pliable, and easy to roll without breaking.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the enchiladas and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Add the toppings right before baking for the best results.

→ What can I serve alongside these enchiladas?

Serve with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to complement the bold, cheesy flavors of the dish.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, baked enchiladas can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add diced jalapeños, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or spicy sausage to the filling for an extra kick of heat.