01 -
Set oven to 175°C (350°F) and allow to fully preheat. Line a baking tray with parchment or foil for easy cleanup.
02 -
Add ground beef to a large dry skillet. Cook over medium heat for approximately 8 minutes, stirring and breaking up meat until no pink remains. Drain excess fat.
03 -
Stir in Italian seasoning, garlic powder, pizza sauce, diced pepperoni, and diced bell peppers or onions. Simmer mixture for 3 minutes, stirring regularly to meld flavors.
04 -
Arrange bun halves, cut side up, on the prepared baking tray. Toast buns in oven for 3 minutes for added texture if desired.
05 -
Spoon the beef mixture evenly over each bun half. Top with shredded cheddar and mozzarella, spreading cheese edge to edge.
06 -
Place tray in oven and bake for 10–12 minutes until cheese is bubbling and lightly golden.
07 -
Remove from oven and sprinkle with red pepper flakes if desired. Serve open-faced or topped with the remaining bun halves. Let rest for 2 minutes before serving.