Description
This Pizza Burger with Pepperoni and Mozzarella is the ultimate fusion of two classic comfort foods—juicy burger patties meet gooey mozzarella cheese, robust pizza sauce, and spicy pepperoni, all stacked on a toasted bun. Perfect for a fun weeknight dinner or game day gathering!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Burger Patties
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Pepperoni Mozzarella Topping
- 8 slices pepperoni (or more to taste)
- 4 oz (115 g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
Other Burger Components
- 4 burger buns
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for toasting buns)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Burger Patties: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix gently until just combined, then form into 4 equal-sized patties, pressing a slight indentation in the center of each for even cooking.
- Cook the Patties: Heat a grill pan or large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes on the first side. Flip, then immediately top each patty with slices of mozzarella and cover with a lid or foil, letting cook an additional 3-4 minutes until cheese is melted and burgers are cooked to your preferred doneness.
- Prepare the Toppings: While patties cook, heat a nonstick pan over medium and add the pepperoni slices. Cook for 1-2 minutes until crisped at the edges, then set aside. Warm the pizza sauce in a small saucepan or microwave until hot.
- Toast the Buns: Brush the cut sides of the buns lightly with olive oil. Place cut-side down on a skillet or grill for 1-2 minutes until golden and crisp.
- Assemble the Burgers: Spread 1 tablespoon of warm pizza sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Top with a mozzarella-smothered burger patty, then layer on crisped pepperoni slices. Add fresh basil if desired, then crown each with the top bun. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra flavor, sprinkle a pinch of Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes into your pizza sauce before heating.
- Swap ground turkey or plant-based patties for a lighter or vegetarian option.
- Try adding sautéed onions or bell peppers for more pizza-inspired flavor.
- If using pre-sliced mozzarella, ensure it’s not too watery to avoid soggy buns.
- Leftover burger patties and toppings can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
