If you’ve ever wished you could combine the pure comfort of sloppy joes with everything you love about a delicious slice of pizza, you’re in for a treat! Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes are the best of both worlds: juicy, meaty filling loaded with classic pizza flavors, piled onto a toasted bun, and finished with gooey mozzarella. It’s everything you crave in a weeknight dinner—quick, simple to make, and utterly irresistible, especially for families. Whether you’re feeding kids or feeding your inner child, these sandwiches deliver serious flavor and pure nostalgic joy in every bite.

Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This short ingredient list is proof that you don’t need a million things to make magic happen in the kitchen! Every ingredient in Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes pulls its weight—each one adds something special, from the bold taste of pepperoni to the melt-in-your-mouth cheese. Here’s what you need and why:

Ground beef: The hearty, classic base that keeps every sandwich juicy and satisfying.
Diced pepperoni: Brings unmistakable pizzeria flair and a spicy kick to the filling.
Onion: Adds sweetness and aromatic depth to the mix—don’t skip it!
Green bell pepper: Delivers a pop of color and crunch reminiscent of your favorite pizza topping.
Garlic: Boosts flavor, making the whole kitchen smell absolutely mouthwatering.
Pizza sauce: Infuses the mixture with zesty, tomato-rich pizza goodness.
Dried oregano: Gives the sloppy joes that herby, unmistakable pizza essence.
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a touch of heat—add as much or as little as you want!
Hamburger buns, split and toasted: A sturdy, warm vessel to hug that saucy, cheesy filling.
Shredded mozzarella: Melts beautifully on top for ultimate cheesy satisfaction.

How to Make Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Let it sizzle away for about 5 to 6 minutes, until there are no more pink spots left. If there’s excess grease, just drain it off for a less greasy filling—it makes a world of difference!

Step 2: Add Pepperoni and Veggies

Into the skillet go the diced pepperoni, chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. These ingredients really lay down the pizza foundation! Cook everything together, stirring occasionally, for about 3 to 4 minutes. You want the veggies softened and aromatic, and the pepperoni to release its bold, savory oils.

Step 3: Stir in the Sauce and Seasonings

Now, pour in the pizza sauce, sprinkle on the dried oregano, and add those red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Give it all a good stir so every bit gets coated in that glossy, zippy sauce. Lower the heat and let the mixture gently simmer for 5 minutes—just enough for the flavors to marry and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Assemble and Cheese

Grab your toasted hamburger buns and get ready for the main event. Spoon the hot, pizza-packed mixture evenly onto each bun bottom. Don’t be shy—pile it on! Then, hit it with a generous handful of shredded mozzarella. If you want to go the extra mile, place the assembled sandwiches under the broiler for a minute or two so the cheese bubbles and browns just like your favorite pie. Top with the other half of the bun and serve right away—hot, gooey, and glorious!

How to Serve Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes

Garnishes

For a little extra flair, sprinkle fresh chopped basil, parsley, or even a few extra red pepper flakes over the melted cheese before serving. If you love a little zip, try a shake of parmesan or even thinly sliced pepperoncini for a tangy kick that complements the rich filling. These little touches really make your Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes pop with color and flavor!

Side Dishes

Pair your Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes with crunchy oven fries, a crisp Caesar salad, or classic potato chips. For something lighter, a big Italian-style green salad tossed with vinaigrette is perfect. Want to really play up the pizza theme? Serve with garlic knots or baked mozzarella sticks for a feast everyone will rave about.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re making these for a party or game night, try serving the filling in slider buns for cute, two-bite sandwiches. You can also pile the mixture onto split hoagie rolls or even use it as a hearty pizza dip with toasted baguette slices. The possibilities are endless—get creative and let your pizza-sandwich imagination run wild!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you end up with extra filling, you’re in luck—Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes reheat like a dream. Let the mixture cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate. It’ll keep well for up to 3 days, ready for quick lunches or a second round of tasty sandwiches.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze the cooked filling to save time down the line. Simply pack it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags (flattened for faster defrosting), label, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Hold off on assembling the sandwiches until you’re ready to serve for the best texture.

Reheating

To bring the filling back to life, simply reheat it gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until piping hot. If needed, add a splash of water or extra pizza sauce to loosen it up. Then spoon onto buns, add fresh mozzarella, and enjoy all over again!

FAQs

Can I make Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes with ground turkey or chicken?

Absolutely! Both ground turkey and chicken work well as lighter, leaner alternatives. Just keep in mind you may want to add a splash of olive oil when sautéing, since these meats have less fat than beef.

What kind of pizza sauce should I use?

You can use your favorite jarred pizza sauce, marinara, or even homemade if you have some on hand. Go for a sauce with robust tomato flavor and Italian herbs for maximum pizza taste!

Are these sandwiches spicy?

Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes naturally have a touch of spice from the pepperoni, but they aren’t overly hot. If you want to turn up the heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy pepperoni. For less spice, simply omit the flakes.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! The filling itself is gluten-free, so just swap regular hamburger buns for your favorite gluten-free buns or rolls. Always double-check the pizza sauce and pepperoni labels if you’re sensitive to gluten.

How do I keep the sandwiches from getting soggy?

Toasted buns are your secret weapon! Always toast the buns first to create a barrier against the saucy filling. If you’re serving a crowd, you can even offer the filling and buns separately for DIY assembly.

Final Thoughts

You really don’t need a special occasion to whip up Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes—any weeknight is the perfect excuse! They’re speedy, family-friendly, and totally customizable, so don’t be surprised if they earn a spot in your regular dinner rotation. I hope you give them a try, pile them high, and enjoy every saucy, cheesy bite!

Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes Recipe

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4.7 from 18 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

These Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes are a delicious twist on traditional sloppy joes, combining the flavors of pepperoni pizza with a classic sandwich. Savory ground beef, diced pepperoni, and veggies simmered in pizza sauce, topped with melty mozzarella cheese, all served on toasted buns.

Ingredients

Scale

Ground Beef Mixture:

1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup diced pepperoni
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup pizza sauce
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

For Serving:

4 hamburger buns, split and toasted
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

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Instructions

Cook Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5–6 minutes. Drain excess grease if needed.
Add Ingredients: Add diced pepperoni, onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3–4 minutes until vegetables are softened.
Season and Simmer: Stir in pizza sauce, oregano, and red pepper flakes if using. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Assemble: Spoon the mixture evenly onto toasted buns, then top with mozzarella cheese.
Serve: Serve immediately while hot and cheesy.

Notes

For a spicier sandwich, use hot pepperoni or add extra crushed red pepper flakes.
You can also toast the assembled sandwiches under the broiler for 1–2 minutes to melt the cheese.
Turkey or chicken can be substituted for beef for a lighter version.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course, Sandwich
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American