Hello, food lovers! If you’re craving the irresistible flavors of pizza but want the comfort of a classic sandwich, this Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes recipe is the perfect answer. Combining the hearty, saucy goodness of sloppy joes with the cheesy, pepperoni-packed taste of pizza, this meal is a fun and delicious twist on two family favorites. Perfect for busy weeknights or a casual dinner, these sloppy joes are quick, easy, and guaranteed to be a hit!
Introduction
Sloppy joes have long been a staple of quick and satisfying meals, but adding a pizza-inspired twist elevates them to a whole new level of flavor. With a savory mixture of ground beef, Italian sausage, pepperoni, and a rich pizza sauce, these Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes are bursting with bold, satisfying tastes. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, entertaining kids, or just looking for something unique, this recipe will deliver.
This dish combines the convenience of sloppy joes with the indulgent flavors of pepperoni pizza, creating a meal that’s versatile enough for any occasion. The toasted hamburger buns add a delightful crunch, while the melted mozzarella cheese brings everything together in gooey perfection.
Ingredients
To make these mouthwatering Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes, you’ll need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 lb ground Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14 oz) can pizza sauce
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni (or mini pepperonis)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 hamburger buns
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes
Step 1: Cook the Meat
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage, breaking them up with a spatula as they cook. Continue until the meats are browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat to avoid a greasy mixture. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the pizza sauce, tomato paste, sugar, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat). Let the mixture simmer gently for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure the flavors meld together perfectly. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Add the Pepperoni
Stir in the sliced pepperoni, allowing it to heat through for another 2-3 minutes. The pepperoni adds a savory depth to the mixture and infuses the sauce with its signature pizza flavor.
Step 4: Toast the Buns
While the meat mixture is simmering, lightly toast the hamburger buns. You can do this in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes. Toasting the buns helps them hold up better against the saucy filling and adds a satisfying crunch.
Step 5: Assemble the Sloppy Joes
Spoon a generous portion of the pepperoni pizza mixture onto the bottom half of each toasted bun. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese, allowing the heat from the meat to melt it slightly. Place the top half of the bun on each sandwich.
Step 6: Serve
Serve these sloppy joes immediately while the cheese is melty and the buns are warm. Pair them with a simple side salad, fries, or even a bowl of soup for a complete meal.
Helpful Tips
- Meat Options: If you prefer, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and sausage. These leaner options still pair wonderfully with the pizza sauce and pepperoni.
- Cheese Choices: While mozzarella is the classic choice, feel free to experiment with provolone, cheddar, or a mix of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile.
- Make It Kid-Friendly: For younger eaters, mini slider buns work perfectly for smaller portions. You can also omit the crushed red pepper flakes for a milder version.
Cooking Tips
- Preventing Sogginess: If you’re worried about soggy buns, spread a thin layer of melted butter on the inside of each bun before toasting. This creates a barrier that keeps them crisp.
- Add Extra Vegetables: For added nutrition, stir in diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach when cooking the onions and garlic. These veggies complement the pizza-inspired flavors beautifully.
- Batch Cooking: The meat mixture can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat and assemble the sandwiches when you’re ready to eat.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes with any of these sides for a complete and satisfying meal:
- A crisp Caesar salad or garden salad
- Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks
- Oven-baked fries or sweet potato wedges
- A bowl of creamy tomato soup for a cozy twist
These sloppy joes also make a great addition to a casual party menu or game-day spread, alongside appetizers like wings, chips, and dips.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional content per sandwich:
- Calories: 460
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 26g
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 950mg
- Potassium: 450mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 8g
- Vitamin A: 10%
- Vitamin C: 8%
- Calcium: 15%
- Iron: 15%
These sandwiches are indulgent yet packed with protein and flavor, making them a balanced option for a satisfying meal.
Storage and Leftovers
Refrigerate: Store any leftover meat mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The buns and cheese are best kept separate to maintain freshness.
Reheat: Reheat the meat mixture in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Toast fresh buns before assembling.
Freezing Option: The meat mixture can also be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat when needed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Yes! Substitute the meat with plant-based ground meat or a mix of lentils and finely chopped mushrooms for a hearty, vegetarian-friendly option.
What other toppings work well? You can add extras like black olives, diced bell peppers, or even jalapeños to customize the sloppy joes to your taste.
Can I use marinara sauce instead of pizza sauce? Absolutely! Marinara sauce works as a substitute, though it may have a slightly less bold pizza flavor. Add a pinch of extra oregano and garlic powder to enhance it.
Related Recipes
For more delicious recipes, check these out:
- Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup
- Ravioli Soup Recipe
- Tuxedo Cheesecake Recipe
- Honey Roasted Carrots Recipe
Conclusion
And there you have it—Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes that combine the best of two classic comfort foods into one irresistible meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, casual dinners, or game-day feasts, these sandwiches are as easy to make as they are to enjoy. With savory pizza flavors and gooey melted cheese, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. Try it today and let us know how you liked it. Happy cooking!