Let’s get saucy! Follow these easy directions for the ultimate pizza sloppy joes.

🔥 Step 1: Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 1 lb ground beef until browned. Use a spoon or spatula to break it into crumbles.

Once browned, drain any excess fat if necessary to avoid a greasy mixture.

🍔 Kitchen Tip: For added flavor, season the meat lightly with salt and pepper during browning.

🧅 Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet.

Cook everything together for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the veggies are softened and fragrant.

🧄 Optional Add-ins: Diced mushrooms or black olives for more pizza vibes.

🍅 Step 3: Stir in the Sauce and Pepperoni

Add the following to the skillet:

• 1 cup marinara sauce

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1 cup sliced pepperoni

Bring to a gentle simmer and let the mixture bubble for about 5–10 minutes. This melds all the flavors and thickens the sauce.

💡 Short on time? Use pre-sliced mini pepperoni for faster prep.

🍞 Step 4: Toast the Buns

While your sloppy joe mixture simmers, lightly toast the hamburger buns in a separate skillet, oven, or toaster oven. Toasting adds texture and prevents sogginess from the juicy filling.

🧀 Step 5: Assemble the Sloppy Joes

Spoon the hot pepperoni pizza mixture onto the bottom halves of the toasted buns.

Generously sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese and top with the other half of the bun.

✨ Make it melty: Place assembled joes under the broiler for 1 minute to melt the cheese!

🥄 Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot with a side of potato chips, salad, or oven fries. Or go all out with a Caesar salad and some garlic knots!