Pepperoni Pizza Burger

Take everything you love about a classic pepperoni pizza and tuck it into a juicy burger for the ultimate crowd-pleaser I was craving two favorites at once and after some tinkering I landed on this recipe that makes weeknight grilling way more exciting

When my family tasted these for the first time it was pure silence until the last bite Always a hit when we have friends over for summer cookouts or game night

Ingredients

• Butter: delivers rich flavor and helps toast the buns until golden I prefer unsalted so I can control the seasoning
• Garlic seasoning with herbs: adds a savory punch to the butter mixture Go for one with dried parsley and basil for the best aroma
• Pepperoni: brings that signature pizza flavor Look for a thicker deli-sliced version that crisps up nicely
• Eighty percent lean ground beef: keeps the patties moist but still flavorful Choose beef with a bright red color and little excess liquid in the packaging
• Italian sausage: turns up the flavor Go with mild or spicy based on your preference and remove from the casing for easy mixing
• Salt and black pepper: heighten all the other flavors Use kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper for the best result
• Buns: provide the sturdy base Look for good bakery buns that hold up to saucy toppings
• Pizza sauce: brings the tomato tang Go with a thick sauce so the buns do not get soggy
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: melts into those classic gooey pizza strands Freshly shredded off a block is ideal
• Parmesan: lifts everything with extra umami Opt for Parmigiano Reggiano and grate it right before using

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Grill:

Turn your grill to high heat and let it fully preheat while you do your prep This ensures a great sear and locks in juices

Make the Seasoned Butter:

Melt your butter in a small bowl and stir in the garlic seasoning with herbs The aroma will be irresistible and this mixture is key for toasty buns

Crisp the Pepperoni:

Layer pepperoni slices between two paper towels in a single layer Microwave for about fifteen seconds The oil releases and edges start to curl making them extra flavorful Set aside

Shape the Patties:

Gently combine ground beef with a portion of Italian sausage for each patty Fold and shape into four even patties pressing a little more sausage into the center so the flavor seeps out while grilling Season both sides well with salt and pepper

Grill the Burgers:

Lower your grill heat to medium high and place your patties on the grates Grill two to three minutes per side for a juicy center Use a thermometer if needed for doneness but avoid pressing down on the patties so you keep the juices in

Toast the Buns:

While the burgers grill brush each cut bun with the garlic butter mixture Place buns on the grill for about a minute or until you see golden grill marks This adds crunch and tons of flavor

Assemble the Burgers:

Place each patty on a toasted bun Spoon over a layer of thick pizza sauce Sprinkle generously with mozzarella cheese and nestle those crisped pepperonis on top If you want melted cheese finish under a broiler or close your grill lid briefly with burgers on a tray till the cheese bubbles

Finish and Serve:

Scatter a little grated Parmesan on top and cap with the bun’s lid Serve immediately while hot and melty

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Inspired by burger joints in my hometown this recipe combines all the nostalgia of Friday night pizza parties with summer barbecue fun I look forward most to adding the extra crisp pepperoni because it gives the burger a pop of smoky flavor The sizzle of the patties hitting the hot grill always reminds me of backyard cookouts with my brothers

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers separate the patties from the buns and toppings Store burgers wrapped or in a sealed container in the fridge for up to two days Reheat the patties either in the microwave or in a skillet Place on a fresh bun and add new toppings for best results

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lighter take swap out ground turkey or chicken in place of beef and sausage Use turkey pepperoni or plantbased cheese if you need to make it more diet friendly Brioche or whole wheat buns both work well instead of classic burger buns

Serving Suggestions

These burgers go perfectly with oven baked fries a simple green salad or a cup of tomato basil soup Also fun to serve with extra pizza sauce on the side for dipping If you have picky eaters let everyone build their own with assorted toppings

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Cultural Background

The pizza burger has roots in mid-century American diners where menus often mixed ItalianAmerican flavor with classic grill fare This hybrid celebrates the timeless spirit of American creativity in the kitchen making a classic burger even more memorable

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef and sausage, adjusting seasoning to taste for best results.

→ How do I melt the cheese without a broiler?

You can close the grill lid or cover the burgers with foil on the cool side of the grill to help the cheese melt gently.

→ What pizza sauce works best for these burgers?

Use a classic marinara or your favorite tomato-based pizza sauce for a rich, savory topping that pairs well with the other ingredients.

→ Can these burgers be made ahead of time?

You can shape the patties and prep the toppings ahead, then grill and assemble when you're ready to serve for the best flavor and texture.

→ Are there bun alternatives for this dish?

Try using ciabatta, sourdough, or even lettuce wraps if you want to change up the texture or enjoy a lighter option.

→ Is it possible to make these burgers without a grill?

Absolutely! Use a stovetop skillet or grill pan for cooking the patties, and finish under the oven broiler for melted cheese.