Is there anything better than the smell of a bubbling dish coming out of the oven? I think back to the cozy family dinners of my childhood, where the kitchen was always filled with laughter, messy hands, and the irresistible scent of something delicious cooking. Pizza Enchiladas Ground Beef is like a wonderful mash-up of all those warm memories, taking the best of two beloved dishes and giving them a fun twist. You’ve got the comforting, cheesy goodness of pizza combined with the hearty, flavorful layers of enchiladas. What’s not to love?

Every time I make this dish, it brings me such joy to see my family’s eyes light up at the dinner table. It’s the kind of meal that invites conversation, laughter, and second helpings, and I’m sure it will do the same for you. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or when you want to impress guests. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple ingredients that won’t break the bank.
• Comfort Food Vibes: Combines two classics into a warm, cheesy hug on a plate.
• Customizable: You can tweak it with your favorite toppings or spice it up as you please!
• Kid-Friendly: Who can resist cheesy goodness wrapped in a tortilla?

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this delightful dish to life!

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced (fresh garlic adds a beautiful punch!)
• 1 cup pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 8 small flour or corn tortillas
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (cheese is life, am I right?)
• 1 cup sliced pepperoni (optional, but who can resist?)
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your enchiladas will bake perfectly.
2. Cook the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook until the beef is browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remember to break it up into crumbles while it cooks.
3. Add garlic and spices: When the beef is almost done, stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute to allow the garlic to soften and everything to meld.
4. Mix in pizza sauce: Pour in the pizza sauce and stir until combined. Let the mixture simmer for a couple of minutes, just enough time for those delicious flavors to blend beautifully.
5. Assemble your enchiladas: Take a tortilla and place about 1/4 cup of the beef mixture in the center. Sprinkle a little mozzarella cheese on top, then roll the tortilla up tightly and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
6. Repeat: Continue this process until all tortillas are filled and placed in the dish. You should have about 8 enchiladas that fit snugly together.
7. Top it off: Pour remaining pizza sauce over the top of the enchiladas, and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese and pepperoni slices (if using) over everything. Feel free to add an extra layer of cheese for good luck!
8. Bake to perfection: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You want that glorious golden-brown color on top!

Pro Tips & Variations

Now that you’ve mastered the basics, let’s play around a bit! Here are some fun twists and tips to take your Pizza Enchiladas to the next level:

• Add veggies: Sneak in some chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach for an extra veggie boost.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or top with jalapeños.
• Different proteins: Swap out ground beef for cooked chicken, turkey, or even a plant-based meat substitute.
• Change the cheese: A blend of cheeses can elevate this dish; try adding pepper jack for a little kick or cheddar for a sharper flavor.
• Sauce variety: Instead of pizza sauce, experiment with barbecue sauce for a smoky flavor or a white sauce for a creamier take!

Serving Suggestions

Your Pizza Enchiladas Ground Beef is ready to shine! I love serving them alongside a fresh garden salad drizzled with vinaigrette to cut through the richness. You might also want to whip up some warm, crusty garlic bread, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. And don’t forget a nice cold soda or a glass of red wine—both pair beautifully! Put on some soft music and enjoy a cozy dinner that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Storage Tips

Oh, there will definitely be leftovers, and that’s a good thing! Here’s how to store your Pizza Enchiladas without losing any of that amazing flavor:

• Refrigeration: Allow the leftovers to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the fridge for about 3-4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the enchiladas before or after baking. If freezing unbaked, wrap the dish tightly in foil and freeze. If they’re baked, let them cool before placing them in freezer-safe containers. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
• Reheating: To reheat, simply bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes if they are thawed, or longer if they are still frozen. Microwave is an option too, but may not achieve that lovely baked cheese texture.

FAQs

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour?

Absolutely! Corn tortillas are a fantastic gluten-free option, and they add a lovely flavor too. Just be sure to soften them in the microwave or on a skillet before filling them to prevent cracking.

What if I don’t like beef?

No worries at all! This recipe is super versatile. You can easily swap the ground beef for ground turkey, shredded chicken, or even some black beans for a vegetarian option!

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the enchiladas ahead of time and store them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready!

How spicy is this dish?

This dish can be adjusted to your desired spice level. If you like it mild, stick to the basic pizza sauce. If you crave heat, add jalapeños or use spicy pizza sauce. It’s all up to your taste!

What if I don’t have pizza sauce?

If you find yourself without pizza sauce, marinara sauce works great too! You can even mix some tomato sauce with Italian herbs for a quick DIY version.

Conclusion

And there you have it—Pizza Enchiladas Ground Beef, a delightful dish that combines the heartiness of enchiladas with the cheesy goodness of pizza. I hope this recipe becomes a go-to in your kitchen, just like it has in mine. Don’t hesitate to share your own touches and variations; I’d love to hear how you enjoyed it! Drop your comments below or tag me on social media—I can’t wait to see your creations! Happy cooking, my friend!