Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 14 oz thick pizza sauce
  • 8 oz sliced pepperoni
  • 1 cup sliced green bell peppers
  • 1/2 cup sliced black olives
  • 1/2 cup diced onions
  • 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until deeply browned. Drain the excess grease thoroughly.
  2. Stir in the dried oregano and garlic powder during the last minute of browning.
  3. Transfer the browned beef to the bottom of the slow cooker, spreading it into an even layer.
  4. Pour the pizza sauce over the meat, stirring gently to combine.
  5. Layer the diced onions, bell peppers, and olives on top of the sauce.
  6. Arrange the pepperoni slices across the surface to create a meaty shield.
  7. Cover and cook on High for 3-4 hours or Low for 7-8 hours.
  8. During the final 30 minutes of cooking, sprinkle the mozzarella and parmesan evenly over the top and replace the lid until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
  9. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.