Pizza Enchiladas
Dive into the ultimate comfort food with Pizza Enchiladas, a delicious blend of pizza flavors wrapped in soft flour tortillas. This vegetarian-friendly version features a hearty filling of ground beef, vegetables, and cheeses, topped with pizza sauce and more melty mozzarella. Ready in under an hour, it’s perfect for a fun family dinner or a crowd-pleasing party dish.
Why Pizza Enchiladas?
This recipe combines the bold, cheesy taste of pizza with the satisfying structure of enchiladas. It’s quick, customizable, and packed with vibrant flavors, making it ideal for weeknight meals or casual gatherings. The vegetarian twist keeps it fresh and adaptable to various preferences.
Ingredients
For the Filling
• 1 pound lean ground beef: Provides a hearty base.
• 1 cup yellow onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth.
• 1 medium green bell pepper, diced: For crunch and color.
• 1 cup mushrooms, chopped: Replaces pepperoni for savory umami.
• 1 tablespoon garlic, chopped: Enhances flavor with aroma.
• 1/3 cup pizza sauce: Brings classic pizza taste.
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: Adds herbaceous notes.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese: For creamy richness.
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: Melty and gooey.
• 1/3 cup black olives, sliced: Replaces bacon for briny flavor.
• 8 large flour tortillas: Soft and sturdy for rolling.
For the Topping
• 2 cups pizza sauce: For a bold, tomatoey coating.
• 2 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded: For a cheesy finish.
• 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced: Adds texture and flavor.
• 1/4 cup black olives, sliced: Enhances the pizza vibe.
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F and grease a large baking dish.
2. Cook the Filling: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, crumbling it as it browns, until fully cooked (about 5–7 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Add Vegetables: Stir in diced onions, green bell peppers, and chopped mushrooms. Cook for 5–7 minutes until vegetables soften.
4. Incorporate Garlic and Seasonings: Add chopped garlic and cook for 2 minutes until fragrant. Remove skillet from heat and stir in 1/3 cup pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and sliced black olives until well combined.
5. Assemble the Enchiladas: Lay out the flour tortillas. Scoop the beef mixture evenly down the center of each tortilla. Roll tightly and place seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
6. Top the Enchiladas: Pour 2 cups of pizza sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas. Sprinkle with 2 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella, then top with sliced mushrooms and black olives.
7. Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes until the cheese is melted and slightly golden around the edges. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips for Perfect Pizza Enchiladas
• Customize the Filling: Add spinach, zucchini, or artichokes for extra veggies, or swap ground beef for ground turkey or a plant-based meat alternative.
• Fresh Cheese: Use freshly shredded mozzarella for better melt and flavor compared to pre-shredded varieties.
• Tortilla Tip: Warm tortillas slightly before rolling to prevent cracking.
• Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the filling for a kick.
FAQs
Can I Prepare Pizza Enchiladas Ahead of Time?
Yes, assemble the enchiladas (without topping) and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add sauce, cheese, and toppings just before baking. Bake as directed, adding 5–10 minutes if cold.
Can I Freeze Pizza Enchiladas?
Freeze the assembled enchiladas (without sauce or toppings) in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then add toppings and bake as directed.
What Can I Serve with Pizza Enchiladas?
Pair with a fresh salad made from late September vegetables like kale, rocket, or cabbage from Jean Baptiste’s planting guide. Serve with the Chilled Creamy Fruit Bowl or Winter Window Fruit Trifle for dessert, or the Creamy Chicken and Carrot Spread as an appetizer. It complements Marry Me Chicken or Parmesan Crusted Chicken for a hearty menu.
Can I Make It Vegetarian?
Replace ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or extra mushrooms and lentils for a fully vegetarian dish.
Can I Make It Gluten-Free?
Use gluten-free flour tortillas and ensure the pizza sauce is gluten-free. Swap mushrooms for another gluten-free topping if needed.
Conclusion
Pizza Enchiladas are a fun, flavorful fusion of cheesy pizza goodness and classic enchiladas, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. With a hearty vegetable and beef filling, melty mozzarella, and vibrant pizza sauce, this dish is sure to satisfy. Whip it up and enjoy a slice of comfort food heaven!