Introduction to Pizza Enchiladas
If you’re stuck in a rut with your usual taco night, pizza enchiladas offer a fresh and flavorful twist. This dish brings together the bold, zesty flavors of Tex-Mex cuisine with the familiar comfort of cheesy pizza, wrapped neatly into soft flour tortillas. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or need a go-to easy weeknight dinner, this fusion meal hits all the right notes.
The appeal of pizza enchiladas lies in their versatility and speed. In under 30 minutes, you can have a bubbling, golden-brown dish that’s hearty, customizable, and simple to clean up. For busy families and individuals, this kind of all-in-one bake is a lifesaver during hectic weekdays.
Unlike traditional enchiladas, which typically use red chili or enchilada sauce (Wikipedia), this version substitutes with a rich pizza sauce (Wikipedia), creating a blend of tangy tomato, Italian herbs, and savory toppings. When paired with stretchy mozzarella cheese (Wikipedia) and tender flour tortillas (Wikipedia), the result is a cross-cultural comfort food that satisfies cravings on both ends of the flavor spectrum.
Thanks to platforms like Pinterest, this recipe is gaining popularity as a quick family meal that doesn’t sacrifice taste. Whether you’re following a meal plan or just need something you can throw together with pantry staples, pizza enchiladas deserve a spot in your dinner rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
When dinner needs to happen fast but still impress, pizza enchiladas are a top-tier solution. They’re not just quick—they’re the perfect intersection of comfort food and weeknight efficiency. If you’re looking for something that’s hearty, satisfying, and easily customizable, this dish checks every box.
One of the main reasons this recipe stands out is how little time and prep it requires. With just a few pantry and fridge staples—like pizza sauce, tortillas, and shredded cheese—you can have a filling meal in under 30 minutes. For those who regularly browse Pinterest for one-pan dinner ideas, this kind of bake is exactly what fits the bill.
Another benefit? It’s incredibly adaptable. You can use any meat or veggie combo you have on hand, from turkey bacon (Wikipedia) and ground beef to bell peppers and mushrooms. This flexibility makes it a go-to for clearing out the fridge or crafting a dinner that suits everyone’s taste—including picky eaters.
-
Kid-friendly: Mild flavors, melty cheese, and familiar textures make this a favorite among children.
-
Budget-friendly: Uses low-cost, high-impact ingredients.
-
Make-ahead friendly: Prepare it earlier in the day and pop it in the oven at dinnertime.
-
Meal-prep approved: Great for leftovers and lunches the next day.
With roots in both Tex-Mex and classic Italian comfort food, this dish combines the best of two cuisines. It’s no wonder it’s trending alongside other cheesy casserole recipes on Pinterest.
Whether you’re planning your next Tex-Mex night or just want something new in your weeknight routine, pizza enchiladas are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients Breakdown
The magic of pizza enchiladas is in their simplicity and flexibility. This section walks you through every ingredient you need to make this easy dinner, along with ideas for variations and substitutions that fit different dietary needs or pantry availability.
Main Ingredients
These are the core building blocks that create the classic pizza enchilada flavor:
-
8 flour tortillas – Soft and pliable, ideal for rolling without tearing. Learn more about flour tortillas here.
-
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully for that classic pizza pull. Mozzarella is essential for capturing the pizza vibe.
-
1 cup pizza sauce – Rich, herby tomato base. You can use store-bought or homemade. See how it differs from other sauces on Wikipedia.
Protein Options
Mix and match proteins to create a fully loaded filling. This combo packs flavor and texture:
-
½ cup turkey bacon – Smoky, leaner alternative to pork bacon. Read more.
-
½ cup chicken ham – Adds mild saltiness and soft texture.
-
½ cup cooked ground beef – Classic pizza topping that brings heartiness.
You can also substitute with plant-based options or omit meat entirely for a vegetarian version.
Vegetables
Add color, flavor, and nutrients with these sautéed veggies:
-
1 small onion, diced – Builds a savory base.
-
1 bell pepper, chopped – Use red, green, or yellow for sweetness or crunch.
-
½ cup sliced mushrooms – Adds umami and texture.
These ingredients are perfect for boosting volume and making the dish more filling without adding cost.
Additional Toppings (Optional)
Take your pizza enchiladas to the next level with these optional add-ons:
-
½ cup pizza sauce (for topping before baking)
-
½ cup shredded mozzarella (extra cheesy top layer)
-
Black olives – For a briny bite.
-
Turkey pepperoni – Gives it a traditional pizza flavor while keeping it lean.
-
Fresh basil – Adds aroma and freshness.
-
Chili flakes – Optional for a spicy kick.
Ingredient Variations and Substitutions
Pizza enchiladas work with a wide range of dietary preferences:
-
Gluten-free tortillas – For those avoiding wheat.
-
Dairy-free cheese – Use plant-based mozzarella for a vegan version.
-
Meatless alternatives – Use tofu crumbles, tempeh, or skip protein and double up on veggies.
This adaptability makes the dish a great candidate for kid-friendly dinners, especially for households managing allergies or preferences.
Step-by-Step
Making pizza enchiladas is straightforward and beginner-friendly. With a few simple steps, you’ll have a bubbling tray of cheesy, saucy goodness ready to serve.
Preheat Your Oven
-
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Allow it to fully preheat while you prepare the filling.
Sauté the Vegetables
-
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
-
Add diced onions and chopped bell peppers, sauté for 2–3 minutes until slightly softened.
-
Add sliced mushrooms and cook for another 2 minutes until the veggies are tender and fragrant.
Add Meats to the Skillet
-
Stir in turkey bacon, chicken ham, and cooked ground beef.
-
Continue cooking for 3–4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the meats to lightly brown.
Stir in Pizza Sauce
-
Pour in 1 cup of pizza sauce and stir well to coat all ingredients.
-
Let the mixture simmer for 2 minutes to blend the flavors, then remove the skillet from heat.
This filling will be juicy but not runny, ensuring your tortillas hold up without becoming soggy.
Step-by-Step
Fill the Tortillas
-
Lay out 8 flour tortillas on a clean surface.
-
Spoon about 3–4 tablespoons of filling into the center of each tortilla.
-
Sprinkle each with a bit of shredded mozzarella cheese before rolling.
You can also sneak in extra toppings like sliced olives or chopped basil for more flavor depth.
Assemble the Baking Dish
-
Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
-
Roll the tortillas tightly and place them seam-side down in the dish, side-by-side.
Ensure the enchiladas are snugly packed to prevent them from unrolling during baking.
Top with Sauce and Cheese
-
Spoon ½ cup pizza sauce evenly over the rolled tortillas.
-
Sprinkle ½ cup mozzarella cheese across the top for a melty finish.
-
Add optional toppings like turkey pepperoni, black olives, or chili flakes.
Bake
-
Place the dish in the preheated oven.
-
Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
-
Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes for a golden, slightly crispy top.
Remove from oven and let sit for 5 minutes before serving to help the enchiladas hold their shape when plated.
Tips for Customizing Your Pizza Enchiladas
One of the best parts of this dish is how easy it is to make it your own. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or adventurous foodies, pizza enchiladas are endlessly versatile.
Go Meatless
-
Skip the meat and load up on sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or black beans.
-
For plant-based protein, try tofu crumbles or lentils.
Add More Veggies
-
Zucchini, corn, jalapeños, or cherry tomatoes make great add-ins.
-
Add greens like kale or baby spinach for extra nutrients.
Boost the Cheese Factor
-
Mix mozzarella with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even provolone.
-
For extra creaminess, add dollops of ricotta or a drizzle of béchamel before baking.
Spice It Up
-
Use spicy marinara instead of regular pizza sauce.
-
Add chili flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños for a kick.
Why Pizza Enchiladas Work for Meal Prep
If you’re meal prepping for the week, pizza enchiladas are a smart choice. They’re hearty, reheat beautifully, and can be portioned in advance.
-
Batch-friendly: Make a double tray and freeze one for later.
-
Storage: Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days in airtight containers.
-
Freezer-friendly: Wrap each enchilada in foil and store in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.
-
Reheating tips: Warm in the oven or air fryer to maintain texture, and sprinkle extra cheese on top for a fresh-from-the-oven feel.
Their convenience makes them an ideal candidate for inclusion in kid-friendly dinner ideas and busy weeknight menus.
What to Serve with Pizza Enchiladas
Complement your pizza enchiladas with sides that balance their richness and enhance the meal.
Light and Fresh Sides
-
Green salad – Arugula, mixed greens, or Caesar salad
-
Chopped salad – With cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and vinaigrette
Warm and Hearty Options
-
Garlic breadsticks – Perfect for scooping up extra sauce
-
Roasted veggies – Like zucchini, carrots, or sweet potatoes
-
Corn on the cob – Adds sweetness and crunch
Sauces and Dips
-
Ranch dressing – A kid favorite
-
Avocado crema – For a creamy, fresh contrast
-
Spicy marinara – Keeps the pizza flavor theme going
For more serving inspiration, check out Pinterest boards dedicated to kid-friendly dinners.
Storing and Reheating Instructions
Pizza enchiladas are ideal leftovers and just as good the next day.
Storage
-
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
-
Freezer: Wrap individual enchiladas in foil or parchment and place in freezer bags. Label with the date. Freeze up to 3 months.
Reheating
-
Oven: Reheat at 350°F for 10–15 minutes covered with foil.
-
Microwave: Heat for 1–2 minutes on high, covered with a damp paper towel.
-
Air fryer: Reheat at 375°F for 5–7 minutes for a crispier finish.
Add a sprinkle of fresh cheese before reheating to refresh the gooey texture.
FAQs
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
Yes, but they tend to be smaller and less flexible. Warm them before rolling to prevent cracking. Note that the texture will be firmer than with flour tortillas.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the enchiladas fully, then cover the dish with foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready.
What’s the best sauce to use—pizza or enchilada sauce?
Pizza sauce brings the Italian twist that defines this dish. You can combine both sauces if you want a true fusion flavor. Learn more about enchilada sauce versus pizza sauce for clarity.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, just skip the meat and double the veggies or use plant-based protein. Mozzarella-style dairy-free cheeses also melt well in this dish.
How do I keep tortillas from getting soggy?
Avoid oversaturating the filling with sauce. Bake uncovered for a crispier texture, and let the dish rest before serving so everything sets properly.
Print
Ultimate guide to pizza enchiladas easy one pan weeknight dinner
Description
Give taco night a flavorful twist with these easy pizza enchiladas, a cheesy mash-up of Tex-Mex and Italian favorites. Loaded with sautéed veggies, mixed meats, pizza sauce, and mozzarella cheese, then wrapped in soft flour tortillas and baked to perfection, this dish is fast, family-friendly, and freezer-ready. It’s a one-pan wonder that makes dinner feel exciting again—perfect for weeknights, leftovers, or meal prep.
Ingredients
-
2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
-
1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough
-
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
-
4 slices turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
-
4 oz cream cheese, softened
-
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
-
½ tsp garlic powder
-
¼ tsp salt
-
¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). 🔥
In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, cooked turkey bacon, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix until well combined.
Unroll the crescent dough and separate into 8 triangles.
Place a spoonful of the chicken mixture at the wide end of each triangle.
Roll up each crescent starting from the wide end, wrapping the filling inside. Place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 12–15 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Let cool for 2–3 minutes before serving. Optional: garnish with more parsley or a side of dipping sauce like ranch.
Notes
-
Protein Swap: Replace any meat with your favorite alternatives like ground turkey, Italian sausage, or vegetarian crumbles.
-
Dairy-Free Option: Use vegan mozzarella and check your pizza sauce label.
-
Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble in the morning and refrigerate until dinner time.
-
Freezing: Wrap unbaked or baked enchiladas individually for easy grab-and-go meals.
-
Reheating Tip: For best results, reheat in the oven and sprinkle extra cheese on top.
