Pizza Burgers With Pepperoni

Pizza burgers are one of those fun meals that always light up the dinner table They combine the juicy satisfaction of a burger with your favorite pizza toppings creating a crowd-pleasing main dish that is easy enough for weeknights and special enough for a weekend treat

I first made these on a whim for a birthday sleepover and the kids devoured them with sauce on their faces It is now our go-to for Friday pizza night when we want something different

Ingredients

• Ground beef: eighty twenty for the ideal juicy burger base pick fresh beef with rich color
• Italian seasoning: brings herbaceous classic pizza flavor check labels for freshness
• Garlic powder: adds subtle savory notes fresh powder has more punch
• Salt: essential to bring out beefy flavor opt for kosher for even seasoning
• Black pepper: brings gentle heat freshly ground is best
• Hamburger buns: study enough to hold toppings and sauce look for slightly crusty or toasted options
• Pizza sauce: tangy and savory ties the pizza flavors together use one with real tomato pieces for freshness
• Mozzarella cheese: classic melt factor freshly shredded melts smoother than pre-shredded
• Pepperoni slices: bring bold flavor and crispy edges pick a quality brand and slice yourself for extra flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Combine the Beef and Seasonings:

Mix ground beef with Italian seasoning garlic powder salt and pepper using clean hands until evenly blended Form into four even patties Press a little indent in the center for even cooking Let rest for a few minutes at room temp for juicier burgers

Toast the Buns:

Lay split buns cut side up on a baking sheet Broil or toast until golden and lightly crisp Remove tops and set aside to prevent overbaking

Grill the Patties:

Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium high Cook patties about four to five minutes per side Avoid pressing down for maximum juiciness Check for desired doneness and a nice crust

Warm the Sauce:

Simmer pizza sauce gently in a saucepan over low heat Stir occasionally so it does not scorch Keep it warm until assembly so cheese melts perfectly

Broil with Cheese and Pepperoni:

Spread half the warm sauce over the bottom buns Top with half the mozzarella and a layer of pepperoni Broil for two to three minutes until cheese is bubbly and edges of the pepperoni are just crisp

Assemble and Finish:

Add grilled burgers to the cheesy bun bases Spoon over remaining sauce sprinkle with more mozzarella and layer on extra pepperoni Broil again until everything is hot and melty Cap with top buns and serve at once

Save This

My favorite part is watching the cheese bubble under the broiler as the pepperoni edges get crispy It takes me back to Saturday nights making pizza with my siblings and seeing whose melted cheese would stretch the farthest

Storage Tips

Leftover pizza burgers can be cooled and wrapped tightly then kept in the refrigerator for up to three days To reheat wrap in foil and warm gently in the oven so the buns do not get soggy Freezing is easiest before sauce and cheese are added

Ingredient substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken make great options for a lighter burger Try provolone cheese for a different gooey finish Marinara sauce works well if you do not have pizza sauce Fresh basil or mushrooms are tasty pizza toppings to mix it up

Serving Suggestions

These burgers are filling so simple sides like Caesar salad roasted broccoli or seasoned fries work perfectly Serve with extra heated pizza sauce for dipping or a crunchy pickle on the side If you have leftovers slice into strips for a speedy lunch wrap

Save This

A Fun American Classic

Pizza burgers first became popular in the United States mid century as a creative diner special They blend classic American grilling with Italian American pizzeria flavors This mashup is still a favorite at family barbecues and retro themed parties

Common Queries

→ What type of beef works best?

Use 80% lean ground beef for juicy, flavorful patties that hold together well while grilling.

→ How do I prevent soggy buns?

Toast the buns until golden before assembling. This adds structure and keeps them sturdy with saucy toppings.

→ Can I customize the cheese or toppings?

Absolutely! Try provolone, cheddar, or add sautéed veggies for extra flavor and texture.

→ What’s the best way to melt cheese?

Broil assembled burgers briefly after adding cheese and pepperoni, ensuring a bubbly, golden topping.

→ Can these burgers be cooked indoors?

Yes, use a grill pan or skillet for the patties, and finish under the broiler for even melting.