If you’re craving a dish that combines the comforting flavors of pizza with the fun, hand-held appeal of enchiladas, then this Pizza Enchiladas Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to. Imagine rolled tortillas packed with gooey mozzarella, pepperoni, and all the classic pizza touches, baked in a tangy sauce that brings it all together in a warm, bubbly feast. It’s the perfect blend of Italian-inspired flavors with a playful twist that is guaranteed to please both kids and adults alike. Once you try this Pizza Enchiladas Recipe, you’ll wonder why nobody thought of it sooner!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Pizza Enchiladas Recipe lies in its wonderfully simple ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect mix of melty, savory, and mildly spiced flavors that keep you coming back for more.
- 8 large flour tortillas: Soft and flexible, these are perfect for rolling up all the delicious fillings without tearing.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: The signature gooeyness that melts beautifully and binds everything together.
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni: Adds a spicy, smoky punch reminiscent of classic pizza toppings.
- 1 1/2 cups pizza sauce: Bursting with herbs and tomato goodness, it’s the saucy heart of the recipe.
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives (optional): Offers subtle briny notes that contrast nicely with the cheese and meats.
- 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper (optional): Adds a fresh crunch and a touch of color to brighten the dish.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Classic Italian herb that infuses the dish with aromatic earthiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory flavors with a mild garlicky kick.
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a lovely fresh finish and vibrant color to your presentation.
How to Make Pizza Enchiladas Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the dish cooks evenly and melts all those fantastic cheeses just right. While the oven heats, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread about half a cup of pizza sauce evenly over its bottom—this layer keeps the enchiladas moist and flavorful from the get-go.
Step 2: Load Your Tortillas
Lay each flour tortilla flat on your workspace and spread a thin layer of pizza sauce over it. Then, sprinkle a generous handful of shredded mozzarella cheese, followed by pepperoni slices. If you’re using olives and green bell peppers, add them now for extra texture and bursts of flavor. Filling your tortillas evenly ensures each bite is a perfect pizza-inspired experience.
Step 3: Roll and Arrange
Carefully roll up each tortilla as tightly as you can without tearing, as this will help them hold together during baking. Place each rolled tortilla seam-side down in the prepared baking dish in neat rows. This way, they won’t unravel in the oven and will bake evenly.
Step 4: Sauce and Season
Pour the rest of the pizza sauce evenly over the arranged tortillas, making sure each one gets a generous coating. Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese on top, then dust with dried oregano and garlic powder. These final touches are what give your Pizza Enchiladas Recipe its signature aroma and mouthwatering flavor.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Put the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes. You’re looking for the cheese to melt completely and become bubbly with golden edges—the sign that everything inside is hot, melty, and ready to enjoy. The aroma filling your kitchen will be irresistible!
Step 6: Garnish and Ready to Serve
Once out of the oven, let your enchiladas cool for a couple of minutes, then sprinkle fresh basil or parsley to add a pop of color and a fresh herbaceous note that complements the rich flavors beautifully.
How to Serve Pizza Enchiladas Recipe
Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the power of a fresh garnish! A handful of chopped fresh basil or parsley instantly elevates the dish visually and adds a delicate freshness that balances the rich, cheesy, and savory ingredients perfectly. You might also try a drizzle of a mild ranch dressing or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Side Dishes
Pair your pizza enchiladas with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness or serve alongside roasted vegetables for added nutrition. Garlic bread is a natural companion that complements the Italian-inspired flavors wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun party twist, serve the enchiladas in smaller, appetizer-sized rolls instead of full-sized tortillas. You can also arrange them on a large serving platter with separate bowls of extra sauce, grated cheese, and fresh herbs for a DIY pizza enchilada bar. Kids and adults will love assembling their own customized bites!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Pizza Enchiladas Recipe pieces can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them covered ensures the tortillas stay moist and the cheese doesn’t dry out. Just make sure to cool them completely before sealing.
Freezing
If you want to prepare this dish in advance, you can freeze the assembled (but unbaked) enchiladas. Wrap the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Reheating
To reheat, pop your enchiladas back into an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through and the cheese is once again melted and bubbly. You can also microwave individual servings, though the oven will maintain the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
Flour tortillas work best for this Pizza Enchiladas Recipe because they’re flexible and less likely to crack when rolled. Corn tortillas tend to be more fragile and might break during rolling, but if you prefer them, warming them thoroughly beforehand can help with pliability.
What can I substitute for pepperoni if I want a vegetarian version?
Great question! You can swap the pepperoni for sliced mushrooms, sautéed spinach, or even diced roasted red peppers to keep the savory, meaty texture without the actual meat. You can also add extra olives or some diced tomatoes for vibrant flavor.
Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?
Absolutely! Try adding red pepper flakes either inside the enchiladas or sprinkled on top before baking. You can also use spicier sausage or pepperoni brands, or add diced jalapeños for an extra kick throughout the dish.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead for a large gathering?
Definitely. You can assemble the entire dish a day before your event and keep it refrigerated. Bake it fresh when your guests arrive to serve piping hot, melty enchiladas without any last-minute rush.
What kind of pizza sauce is best to use?
Use your favorite pizza sauce, whether store-bought or homemade. A sauce with good balance between sweet and tangy, and plenty of herbs works best to complement the other ingredients without overpowering them.
Final Thoughts
This Pizza Enchiladas Recipe is a total delight that brings two beloved comfort foods into one irresistible dish. It’s easy to make, wonderfully customizable, and perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how quickly it becomes a staple in your meal rotation. Get ready to roll, bake, and indulge in cheesy, saucy goodness that’s sure to warm hearts and satisfy cravings!
Print
Pizza Enchiladas Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Pizza Enchiladas combine the best of two beloved dishes—pizza and enchiladas—into one easy, delicious casserole. Flour tortillas are layered with classic pizza ingredients like mozzarella, pepperoni, olives, and bell peppers, then rolled up, topped with pizza sauce and cheese, and baked until bubbly and golden. Perfect for a fun weeknight dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Pizza Enchiladas
- 8 large flour tortillas
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1 1/2 cups pizza sauce
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for baking the enchiladas evenly.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Spread about half a cup of pizza sauce evenly over the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor at the base.
- Assemble the Tortillas: Lay out each tortilla and spread a thin layer of pizza sauce over it. Sprinkle generously with shredded mozzarella cheese, then add sliced pepperoni, black olives, and chopped green bell pepper if using.
- Roll and Arrange: Carefully roll up each tortilla tightly, then place them seam-side down in the prepared baking dish to keep them closed during baking.
- Add Toppings: Pour the remaining pizza sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas. Then sprinkle the top with the remaining mozzarella cheese, dried oregano, and garlic powder to enhance flavor and create a delicious crust.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden around the edges.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of fresh flavor and an attractive presentation before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute pepperoni with cooked sausage, ham, or keep it vegetarian by adding more vegetables.
- Use gluten-free tortillas to make this dish gluten-free.
- Feel free to add extra toppings like mushrooms or onions according to your preference.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or jalapeños.
