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#### Instructions:
**1. Prepare the Sloppy Joe Mixture:**
Start by heating a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the pan and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Next, add the chopped onions, bell pepper, and garlic to the pan. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables have softened. The smell of sautéing onions and garlic will already make your mouth water!
**2. Add the Sauce and Seasonings:**
Once the vegetables have softened, stir in the pizza sauce, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and Italian seasoning. Add the sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes and season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken up and become rich and flavorful.
**3. Add the Pepperoni:**
Once the sauce has thickened, add in the sliced pepperoni. Stir the pepperoni into the sauce, allowing it to soften and release its flavorful oils into the mixture. This step is crucial as it helps infuse the Sloppy Joe filling with that signature pepperoni flavor.
**4. Add the Cheese:**
To make these Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes extra indulgent, stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese. The cheese will melt into the sauce, creating a gooey, cheesy base that takes these sloppy joes to the next level. Make sure the cheese is completely melted and incorporated before moving on to the next step.
**5. Toast the Buns:**
While the sloppy joe mixture is simmering, toast the hamburger buns. You can do this in a toaster, or you can toast them in a separate skillet or on the grill for added flavor. Lightly buttering the buns before toasting them will add richness and a crispy texture.
**6. Assemble the Sloppy Joes:**
Once the buns are toasted and the filling is ready, it’s time to assemble your Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes. Spoon the cheesy pepperoni-filled mixture onto the bottom half of each toasted bun. If you want an extra indulgent treat, top each sandwich with a few more slices of pepperoni and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
**7. Serve and Enjoy:**
Place the top half of the bun on each sandwich, and your **Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes** are ready to serve! Optionally, garnish with some fresh basil or oregano to bring out that pizza-inspired flavor. Serve them hot and enjoy the cheesy, pepperoni-packed goodness!
### Tips and Variations
1. **Make it Spicy:** If you love a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a sliced jalapeño to the sauce. You can also use spicy pepperoni for an extra kick.
2. **Use Different Meat:** While ground beef is traditional for Sloppy Joes, you can use other meats such as ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative for a lighter or vegetarian version of the dish.
3. **Homemade Pizza Sauce:** For an extra boost of flavor, try making your own pizza sauce. Blend tomatoes with garlic, olive oil, and Italian herbs for a more personalized touch.
4. **Add Veggies:** You can boost the veggie factor by adding mushrooms, spinach, or even zucchini to the Sloppy Joe mixture.
5. **Serving Suggestions:** These Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes go great with a side of crispy fries, a fresh green salad, or even a simple bowl of soup.
### Conclusion
The **Best Ever Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes** are a delicious and inventive way to enjoy two classic comfort foods in one mouthwatering meal. The combination of savory ground beef, pepperoni, cheese, and pizza sauce on a soft bun creates a sandwich that is both familiar and exciting. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner, a game-day treat, or a weekend BBQ, these sloppy joes are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.
With the step-by-step instructions above, you’ll be able to create these irresistible sandwiches at home in no time. Don’t forget to get creative with toppings and variations – the possibilities are endless when it comes to making your perfect **Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes**! Enjoy this fun and delicious twist on a classic American favorite, and share the joy with friends and family.
