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When you are craving both pizza and burgers at once these pizza burgers with pepperoni and mozzarella deliver the best of both worlds in every juicy bite. This recipe is all about savory beef patties layered with zesty pizza sauce gooey mozzarella cheese and spicy pepperoni all sandwiched in a golden toasted bun for a hearty meal that satisfies pizza fans and burger lovers alike.
The first time I made these I was looking to combine my two favorite takeout cravings into something I could make at home and they were a huge hit right from the start. My friends still ask me to make them when we have movie nights.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: choose eighty percent lean for juicy patties that hold together well
- Italian seasoning: boosts that classic pizza flavor with its herbal notes try to find a fragrant blend with oregano as the main component
- Garlic powder: for a subtle savory kick opt for fresh smelling powder for the deepest flavor
- Salt: enhances all the other flavors use kosher salt if available for even seasoning
- Black pepper: adds balance you want freshly ground for the biggest punch
- Hamburger buns: sturdy and fresh hold up better to all the toppings always toast them for extra crunch
- Pizza sauce: brings that tangy tomato element a thicker sauce works best to avoid soggy buns
- Mozzarella cheese: provides stretchy gooey melt always grate your own if possible for smoothest results
- Pepperoni: brings a spicy punch and crisp texture choose a thick cut or deli style for bolder flavor
Instructions
- Mix the Beef Patties:
- Combine the ground beef Italian seasoning garlic powder salt and pepper in a large bowl. Gently mix with clean hands or a large fork until all the seasonings are evenly distributed but do not overwork the meat or the patties may get tough. Shape the mixture into four equal patties pressing them just slightly thinner than your buns as they will shrink while cooking. Allow them to rest while you prep the other ingredients.
- Toast the Buns:
- Preheat your grill or grill pan along with your oven broiler to medium high heat. Split the hamburger buns and place them cut side up on a baking sheet. Toast in the broiler for just a minute or two until golden watching closely so they do not burn. Remove the top halves and set aside for assembly.
- Grill the Burger Patties:
- Place the patties on the preheated grill or grill pan. Cook for about four to five minutes per side until deeply browned on the outside and cooked to your preferred doneness. Let them rest briefly before assembling to keep the juices inside.
- Warm the Sauce and Prep the Bottom Buns:
- While the patties grill warm the pizza sauce in a small saucepan set over low heat stirring every so often so it does not scorch. Spoon half of the warm sauce over the bottom halves of the buns. Top each with a generous handful of mozzarella and a layer of pepperoni slices. Slide the baking sheet under the broiler for two to three minutes just until the cheese melts and starts to bubble.
- Assemble the Burgers:
- Transfer each grilled patty onto the cheesy pepperoni lined bottom buns. Spoon over the remaining pizza sauce add another layer of mozzarella and a few more pepperoni slices on each burger. Return the open burgers to the broiler one last time until the cheese is deliciously melty and lightly browned.
- Finish and Serve:
- Carefully place the toasted top bun halves on each burger and serve hot right away for the best melty texture.
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One of my favorite parts of this recipe is the pepperoni as it crisps up just a little under the broiler and adds so much flavor. We once made mini versions of these for my nephew’s birthday and they disappeared faster than any other dish on the table.
Storage Tips
Leftover pizza burgers will keep in the refrigerator for up to two days tightly wrapped. For best results store patties and buns separately to help prevent sogginess. To reheat place the burger halves with cheese and pepperoni under the broiler until hot and bubbly then assemble fresh.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap out mozzarella for provolone or a mix of Italian cheeses for more depth. Ground turkey or chicken works well for a lighter flavor. If you do not have Italian seasoning you can use just oregano and basil to keep that pizza vibe strong.
Serving Suggestions
These are perfect with classic oven fries garlic parmesan potato wedges or even a crisp green salad to balance the richness. For game days I like to set up a topping bar with extra pickled peppers or sautéed mushrooms so everyone can make their pizza burger their own.
Cultural Snapshot
The pizza burger is a nostalgic spin born from American diner menus that were always looking to fuse comfort foods. You will find regional versions topped with everything from bacon to olives but the mozzarella pepperoni and sauce combo is a crowd pleaser.
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These pizza burgers come together fast and bring all the flavors of your favorite slice to the backyard grill. You will want to make them again and again!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of beef works best?
Choose 80% lean ground beef for juicy, flavorful patties and the best texture on the grill.
- → Can I use different cheeses?
Mozzarella melts beautifully, but provolone or cheddar can add unique flavors and textures.
- → How do I keep buns from getting soggy?
Toast the buns thoroughly before layering sauce and cheese for an extra-crisp base.
- → Can these burgers be cooked indoors?
Absolutely! Use a grill pan or skillet for the patties and your oven broiler to melt cheese.
- → Are there topping variations?
Add sautéed mushrooms, sliced bell peppers, or fresh basil for extra flavor and a personalized touch.