Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes are a fun and tasty meal that combines two favorites: sloppy joes and pizza! This dish is easy to make, loaded with flavor, and sure to please both kids and adults. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, bringing everyone together for a deliciously messy bite.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes is a great idea for many reasons. First, it’s simple and quick to prepare, requiring just a few common ingredients. Second, the mix of ground beef, pepperoni, and mozzarella cheese makes for an irresistible combination. Lastly, this dish takes the classic comfort of a sloppy joe and adds a fun pizza twist, making it a hit for any occasion.
How to Make Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup pizza sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup mini pepperoni slices
- 4 hamburger buns
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper, cooking until the vegetables are tender. Stir in the pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, and mini pepperoni slices. Let it simmer for a few minutes.
- Place the bottom halves of the hamburger buns on a baking sheet. Spoon the sloppy joe mixture onto each bun. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of each portion.
- Place the assembled sloppy joes in the preheated oven. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes from the oven. Top with the remaining bun halves and serve hot. Enjoy the delicious fusion of pizza and sloppy joes in every bite!
How to Serve Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes
Serve Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes hot out of the oven. You can place them on a plate with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad. They make a great meal for family dinners or casual get-togethers.
How to Store Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes
To store leftover Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes, let them cool down to room temperature. Then, place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the sloppy joe mixture (without the buns) for up to 2 months. Just reheat before serving.
Tips to Make Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes
- Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- Feel free to add your favorite pizza toppings like mushrooms or olives.
- If you love extra spice, add some red pepper flakes to the mixture.
Variation
For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat. You can also use a whole wheat bun for a healthier choice.
FAQs
1. Can I use turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
2. How can I make this recipe spicier?
You can add jalapeños or hot sauce to the meat mixture for an extra kick.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling ahead, store it in the fridge, and assemble the sandwiches just before baking.
Enjoy your Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes! They are sure to be a hit at your next meal!
Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes
Ingredients
For the Sloppy Joe Mixture
- 1 lb ground beef Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper chopped
- 1 cup pizza sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ cup mini pepperoni slices
For Assembly
- 4 pieces hamburger buns Can use whole wheat buns for a healthier choice.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
- Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper, cooking until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, and mini pepperoni slices. Let it simmer for a few minutes.
Assembly
- Place the bottom halves of the hamburger buns on a baking sheet.
- Spoon the sloppy joe mixture onto each bun.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of each portion.
Baking
- Place the assembled sloppy joes in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving
- Remove the Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes from the oven. Top with the remaining bun halves and serve hot.
