Get ready to experience the ultimate mashup of two beloved classics with these Pepperoni Pizza Burgers! This ingenious creation combines the juicy satisfaction of a perfectly grilled burger with the irresistible flavors of a pepperoni pizza, creating a meal that’s guaranteed to wow everyone at your table.
As someone who’s always looking for fun twists on family favorites, I stumbled upon this idea during a weekend cookout when we couldn’t decide between burgers or pizza. Why choose when you can have both? The result is this crowd-pleasing creation that brings together savory beef patties, gooey mozzarella, zesty pizza sauce, and crispy pepperoni in every delicious bite.
Why You’ll Love This
- Perfect fusion of two favorite comfort foods in one satisfying meal
- Kid-approved and adult-craved – a true family pleaser
- Customizable with your favorite pizza toppings
- Ready in just 45 minutes for a weeknight dinner win
- Simple ingredients you likely already have on hand
Ingredients
- 1 lb 80% lean ground beef
- 1/4 lb Italian sausage, mild or spicy
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 20-24 slices pepperoni
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 hamburger buns
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic herb seasoning
Instructions
- Heat your grill to high heat. You'll be cooking on medium-high heat, but starting hot helps get those perfect grill marks.
- In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and stir in the garlic herb seasoning. Set aside for brushing the buns.
- Lay pepperoni slices on paper towels without overlapping. Microwave for 15 seconds to remove excess grease and make them slightly crispy. Set aside.
- Mix ground beef and Italian sausage in a bowl. Divide into 4 portions and gently form into patties, making a small indent in the center to prevent puffing. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Reduce grill heat to medium-high. Place patties on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side for medium doneness. Don't press down on the patties while cooking.
- Brush cut sides of buns with the garlic butter mixture. Place cut-side down on the grill for about 1 minute until golden with nice grill marks.
- Place each cooked patty on a bottom bun. Top with a spoonful of pizza sauce, shredded mozzarella, and pepperoni slices. Place under broiler for 1-2 minutes or use indirect heat on grill with lid closed to melt cheese.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and top with the upper bun. Serve immediately while the cheese is melted and gooey.
Tips & Variations
- Add sautéed mushrooms, green peppers, or onions for a supreme pizza burger experience
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option (add 1 tablespoon olive oil to maintain juiciness)
- Make mini versions using slider buns for game day appetizers
- For extra pizza flavor, mix 2 tablespoons of pizza sauce directly into the burger meat
- Try different cheeses like provolone or a pizza blend for variety
- For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the meat mixture or use spicy pepperoni
Serving Suggestions
These hearty Pepperoni Pizza Burgers are practically a meal on their own, but they pair beautifully with classic sides. Serve with garlic parmesan fries or a simple side salad dressed with Italian vinaigrette. For a complete pizza parlor experience, offer small bowls of extra warm pizza sauce for dipping.
For beverages, an ice-cold craft beer or Italian soda complements these burgers perfectly. If serving at a party, set up a “burger bar” with additional pizza toppings so everyone can customize their own pizza burger creation.
Notes
- Store any leftover cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
- For food safety, burgers should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C)
- The butter-Parmesan spread can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator; just bring to room temperature before using
- For best results, use freshly shredded mozzarella as it melts better than pre-packaged varieties
FAQs
Can I make these burgers in the oven?
Yes! Bake the patties on a rack over a baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes, add toppings, and broil for 1-2 minutes until cheese melts.
How can I prevent my burgers from puffing up in the middle?
The thumb indentation in the center of each raw patty helps prevent this common issue by allowing the burger to expand during cooking without doming.
Can I prepare these burgers in advance?
You can form the patties up to 24 hours ahead and keep them covered in the refrigerator. The butter-Parmesan spread can also be made in advance.
Are these suitable for freezing?
Yes! Freeze the uncooked patties separated by parchment paper for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
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