Easy Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes Recipe for a Quick Dinner

If you’re looking for a quick, family-friendly dinner idea that combines the best of two comfort food favorites, look no further than these Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes! Packed with hearty flavors, this dish brings the savory goodness of pizza and the nostalgia of sloppy joes together into a single, satisfying meal. Plus, it’s a lighter version that fits perfectly into your healthy eating plan without compromising on taste.

Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground turkey or chicken (93% lean or higher)
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
• 1 cup marinara sauce (low-sugar or no-sugar-added)
• 1/4 cup turkey pepperoni slices (chopped)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• 4 light hamburger buns (or whole-grain sandwich thins)
• 1/2 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese

Instructions

Cook the Meat

1. In a large nonstick skillet, cook the lean ground turkey or chicken over medium heat until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks.
2. Add the onion and green bell pepper to the skillet, cooking until softened (about 3–4 minutes).

Add the Sauce and Seasonings

1. Stir in the marinara sauce, chopped turkey pepperoni, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Simmer the mixture for 5–7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Assemble the Sloppy Joes

1. Spoon the meat mixture evenly onto the light hamburger buns.
2. Sprinkle each serving with shredded mozzarella cheese, allowing the heat from the meat mixture to melt the cheese.

Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve warm with a side of steamed vegetables, a crisp salad, or baked zucchini fries for a balanced meal.

Nutritional Information

(Per Serving)

• Calories: ~250
• Protein: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fat: 6g
• Fiber: 4g
• WW Points: ~6 (based on specific ingredients used)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy: This meal comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
2. Kid-Friendly: The pizza flavors make this a hit with both kids and adults alike.
3. Customizable: Swap out ingredients to suit your preferences or use what you have on hand.
4. Healthier Option: By using lean meat, low-sugar marinara, and light buns, this recipe is a lighter take on a typically indulgent dish.

Tips for Success

• Choose Your Marinara Wisely: Opt for a low-sugar or no-sugar-added marinara sauce to keep the dish Weight Watchers-friendly.
• Add More Veggies: Boost the nutrition by adding mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to the meat mixture.
• Toast the Buns: Lightly toast the buns for added texture and to prevent them from getting soggy.
• Make It Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or extra red pepper flakes if you like a kick of heat.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a side of roasted broccoli, air-fried sweet potato wedges, or a simple mixed green salad to round out the meal.
• For an appetizer, serve with a bowl of vegetable soup or a plate of crudités and dip.
• If you’re hosting, consider offering these as sliders on mini buns for a party-friendly option.

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Swap out the ground turkey for plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils for a meatless version.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps as an alternative.
• Extra Cheesy: Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a dollop of ricotta for an extra layer of creaminess.

These Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes are the perfect combination of flavor, comfort, and convenience. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just want to indulge in a nostalgic treat without the guilt, this recipe is a winner. It’s easy to make, packed with protein, and bursting with classic pizza flavors in every bite. Add this to your weekly meal rotation and enjoy a dish that satisfies cravings while keeping you on track!