When two comfort food classics—pepperoni pizza and chili—join forces, the result is pure magic. This Pepperoni Pizza Pork Chili combines hearty, flavorful ingredients with all the best flavors of a classic pizza. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, hosting a game day, or simply craving something warm and cozy, this dish is sure to satisfy.
The star of the show is tender, savory pork paired with pepperoni for a smoky, slightly spicy kick. With the addition of rich tomato sauce, melty mozzarella, and classic pizza seasonings, this dish brings the best of both worlds into one pot. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and can be ready in under an hour!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Quick and Easy: Perfect for weeknights or when you need a comforting meal fast.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A hit with kids and adults alike—who doesn’t love pizza or chili?
• Versatile: Serve it with crusty bread, over pasta, or on its own.
Let’s dive into the recipe!
Pepperoni Pizza Pork Chili Recipe
Ingredients
• 1 lb ground pork (or pork shoulder, diced small)
• 4 oz pepperoni, diced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup chicken or beef broth
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus extra for topping)
• 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional, for pizza vibes)
Instructions
1. Cook the Pork and Pepperoni
Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground pork and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Add the diced pepperoni and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
Add the diced onion and garlic to the pot. Sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the Veggies
Stir in the red and green bell peppers. Cook for another 5 minutes until slightly softened.
4. Build the Base
Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth. Stir in the oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
5. Simmer
Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors meld and the chili thickens.
6. Add the Cheese
Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese until melted into the chili.
7. Serve
Ladle the chili into bowls and top with extra mozzarella, black olives, or even fresh basil for garnish.
Serving Suggestions
This Pepperoni Pizza Pork Chili is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with:
• Crusty garlic bread
• Tortilla chips for dipping
• A crisp romaine salad for a lighter side
Why This Recipe Works
The combination of smoky pork, spicy pepperoni, and rich tomato sauce creates a deep, savory flavor that satisfies even the heartiest of appetites. The melted mozzarella adds creaminess, while the classic Italian seasonings bring that signature pizza flavor. It’s a cozy, one-pot dish that feels indulgent but is packed with protein and veggies.
A Fun Twist for Family Meals
As a parent, I know how hard it can be to please everyone at the dinner table. This recipe bridges the gap between kid-approved pizza night and hearty, grown-up meals. Plus, it’s a sneaky way to add more veggies to the mix—without anyone complaining!
Let me know if you try it, and feel free to experiment with your favorite pizza toppings. Who says comfort food can’t be creative?