Pizza Burger Pepperoni Cheese

Pizza burgers bring together everything you love about a juicy grilled burger and the nostalgic flavors of classic pizza, all stacked on a soft brioche bun. It is the ultimate comfort food mashup, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or backyard get-together when you crave both pizza and a burger in one bite.

When I first made these for a backyard cookout, everyone reached for seconds and now my neighbors ask when pizza burgers are coming back to the grill.

Ingredients

• Ground chuck: With a good fat percentage gives the patties richness and tenderness
• Green bell pepper: For classic pizza flavor and a fresh crunch
• Red onion: Offers a little tang and beautiful color
• Brioche buns: Bring some subtle sweetness and a pillowy texture
• Provolone cheese: Melts beautifully and is mild enough to balance the toppings
• Big deli pepperoni: For a bold meaty layer be sure to get thicker cuts from the deli
• Store bought pizza sauce: Adds tangy tomato flavor look for one with real herbs
• Garlic paste: Saves you from peeling and mincing fresh garlic and mixes easily for sauce
• Mayo: For creamy garlic mayo that holds everything together
• Salt, pepper, garlic powder: A simple seasoning that brings out the best in the beef

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Patties:

Shape the ground chuck into even patties and place them in the fridge for at least thirty five minutes to help them hold together while grilling and allow the seasoning to absorb

Prepare Garlic Mayo:

Mix mayo with garlic paste in a small bowl and set aside for layering later This adds both moisture and that classic garlicky pizza shop kick

Cook the Vegetables:

Chop green bell pepper and red onion Cook them in a hot cast iron pan with some butter and salt for up to ten minutes until soft and lightly caramelized Keep warm until assembling

Season and Grill Patties:

Take patties out of the fridge and generously sprinkle salt pepper and garlic powder on both sides Grill directly over high heat for about six minutes per side for a flavorful sear

Crisp the Pepperoni:

Add deli pepperoni slices to a hot cast iron skillet Cook each side for about one to one and a half minutes until the edges start to ripple and crisp up Drain briefly so they do not make the burgers soggy

Assemble with Sauce and Cheese:

Grill patties an additional two minutes after flipping Add spoonfuls of pizza sauce top with provolone cheese and pepperoni Let grill covered for another four minutes so everything melts together Remove to a wire rack

Toast the Buns and Build:

Lightly toast brioche buns for a buttery crunch Spread garlic mayo on each bun Add the sautéed vegetables Arrange the loaded burger patty on top and finish with the other half of the bun

Save

Every time I layer on that melty cheese and crispy pepperoni I remember my little brother asking for pizza burgers at every birthday he said they tasted just like his favorite corner pizzeria burger mashup. Provolone turns luxuriously creamy as it melts making each bite dreamy.

Storage Tips

Store leftover cooked patties and toppings separately to keep everything at its best Airtight containers in the fridge will keep burgers good for up to three days Warm patties gently on the stove or in the oven so the cheese melts again without overcooking the beef

Ingredient Substitutions

You can try mozzarella or even cheddar cheese instead of provolone Turkey or chicken mince work in place of beef Just be sure to oil your grill pan as leaner meats can stick Use red or orange bell peppers if you want a sweeter flavor

Serving Suggestions

Serve with oven fries or a simple green salad Pizza burgers are excellent with cold root beer or lemonade Add extra pizza sauce or a swipe of pesto for a fresh spin

Save

Cultural Context

Pizza burgers were a trend in the 1960s and 70s when "melting pot" diner foods were all the rage They blend Italian American pizza with all-American hamburgers for an iconic diner classic you can remake at home

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of beef works best?

80/20 ground chuck delivers juicy, flavorful patties with ideal fat content for grilling.

→ Can I use other cheeses instead of provolone?

Mozzarella, cheddar, or Monterey Jack also melt well and pair nicely with pizza-inspired toppings.

→ How do I keep the vegetables tender?

Sauté chopped peppers and onions over high heat with butter and salt until soft but not mushy, about 8–10 minutes.

→ Is it necessary to cook the pepperoni?

Quickly grilling the pepperoni adds crispness and intensifies the flavor, but it's optional if you prefer it softer.

→ Can the burgers be prepared ahead of time?

You can shape and chill the patties in advance, then grill and assemble just before serving for best texture.