Sloppy Joe Pizza

Why I’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines the best parts of pizza and Sloppy Joes into one delicious dish. I can make it with everyday ingredients, and it comes together in less than an hour. The flavorful beef topping, tangy sauce, and gooey melted cheese make every bite satisfying. I also enjoy how easy it is to customize with different cheeses, vegetables, or even a homemade pizza crust.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1/2 green bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup Sloppy Joe sauce
  • 1 refrigerated pizza crust or homemade pizza dough
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

  1. I preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. I lightly grease a pizza pan or baking sheet with olive oil.
  3. I cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until browned, then drain any excess grease.
  4. I add the diced onion and green bell pepper and cook until softened, about 4 to 5 minutes.
  5. I stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
  6. I pour in the Sloppy Joe sauce and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
  7. I roll out the pizza dough and place it onto the prepared pan.
  8. I bake the crust for 5 to 7 minutes to help prevent it from becoming soggy.
  9. I spread the Sloppy Joe mixture evenly over the partially baked crust.
  10. I sprinkle the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses evenly across the top.
  11. I finish with Italian seasoning.
  12. I bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  13. I garnish with fresh parsley before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 8 slices
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

  • I use ground turkey or ground chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
  • I add sliced mushrooms or black olives for extra flavor.
  • I sprinkle cooked bacon over the pizza before baking for a smoky twist.
  • I use pepper jack cheese to add a little heat.
  • I make it on a cauliflower crust for a lower-carb option.
  • I add diced jalapeños when I want a spicy version.
  • I finish the pizza with sliced pickles after baking for a classic Sloppy Joe-inspired topping.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover Sloppy Joe Pizza in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, I wrap individual slices tightly and freeze them for up to 2 months. I reheat slices in a 375°F oven for about 8 to 10 minutes or in an air fryer for 3 to 5 minutes to keep the crust crisp. I only use the microwave when I’m short on time, knowing the crust will be softer.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pizza dough?

Yes. I enjoy using homemade dough whenever I have extra time because it gives the pizza a fresh, bakery-style texture.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes. I prepare the Sloppy Joe filling a day ahead and refrigerate it. When I’m ready to bake, I simply assemble the pizza and cook it fresh.

What cheese works best?

I like using mozzarella for its excellent melting qualities, while cheddar adds extra flavor. Provolone or Monterey Jack also work well.

Can I freeze the finished pizza?

Yes. I let the pizza cool completely, wrap individual slices tightly, and freeze them for up to 2 months. I reheat them directly from frozen in the oven.

What should I serve with Sloppy Joe Pizza?

I like serving it with a crisp green salad, coleslaw, garlic bread, roasted vegetables, potato wedges, or a bowl of tomato soup for a complete meal.

Conclusion

I think Sloppy Joe Pizza is the perfect comfort food for anyone who loves bold, hearty flavors. The savory beef filling, flavorful sauce, crispy crust, and melted cheese come together to create a satisfying meal that’s easy enough for busy weeknights yet delicious enough to share with family and friends. I enjoy making this recipe whenever I want a fun twist on two classic favorites.

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Sloppy Joe Pizza

Sloppy Joe Pizza

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Sloppy Joe Pizza combines the savory, tangy flavors of a classic Sloppy Joe with a crispy pizza crust and plenty of melted cheese. It’s a hearty, family-friendly meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

  • Author: Laura
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 8 slices
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Bake
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1/2 green bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup Sloppy Joe sauce
  • 1 refrigerated pizza crust or homemade pizza dough
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Lightly grease a pizza pan or baking sheet with the olive oil.
  3. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until browned, then drain any excess grease.
  4. Add the diced onion and green bell pepper and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until softened.
  5. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  6. Add the Sloppy Joe sauce and simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
  7. Roll out the pizza dough and place it on the prepared pan.
  8. Prebake the crust for 5 to 7 minutes.
  9. Spread the Sloppy Joe mixture evenly over the partially baked crust.
  10. Top with the mozzarella and cheddar cheeses.
  11. Sprinkle with the Italian seasoning.
  12. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  13. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, then slice and serve.

Notes

  • Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
  • Add mushrooms, black olives, or diced jalapeños for extra flavor.
  • Sprinkle cooked bacon over the pizza before baking for a smoky twist.
  • Use pepper jack, provolone, or Monterey Jack cheese for variety.
  • Finish with sliced pickles after baking for a classic Sloppy Joe-inspired topping.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze individual slices for up to 2 months and reheat directly from frozen.
  • Reheat in a 375°F oven or air fryer to maintain a crisp crust.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 385 kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 720 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 31 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 23 g
  • Cholesterol: 60 mg
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