The Pepperoni Pizza Burger is the perfect fusion of two comfort food favorites—pizza and a juicy burger. This burger features a seasoned beef patty, melty mozzarella cheese, crispy pepperoni, and rich marinara sauce, all stacked inside a toasted bun. It’s a fun, flavorful twist on classic burgers that’s perfect for pizza and burger lovers alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines the best of pizza and burgers in one bite.
- Juicy, cheesy, and packed with Italian flavors.
- Easy to make with simple ingredients.
- Customizable with different toppings and sauces.
- Perfect for cookouts, game nights, or family dinners.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Burger Patties:
- Ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)
- Italian seasoning
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt and black pepper
For the Toppings:
- Mozzarella cheese slices
- Pepperoni slices
- Marinara or pizza sauce
- Hamburger buns
- Olive oil or butter (for toasting buns)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil or oregano (optional for garnish)
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Burger Patties
- Preheat a grill or stovetop pan to medium-high heat.
- Mix ground beef with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Form into patties slightly larger than the buns, as they will shrink when cooked.
- Grill or cook patties for 3–4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
Step 2: Assemble the Burgers
- Toast the buns in a skillet with olive oil or butter until golden.
- Top each patty with mozzarella cheese and let it melt.
- Layer the burger by placing a spoonful of marinara sauce on the bottom bun.
- Add the cooked patty, then top with pepperoni slices.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan and fresh basil, if desired.
- Cover with the top bun and serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4 burgers
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add crushed red pepper flakes or spicy pepperoni.
- Stuffed Burger: Stuff the patties with mozzarella for an extra cheesy bite.
- Chicken Pizza Burger: Use ground chicken instead of beef.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the beef for a grilled portobello mushroom or a veggie patty.
- Hawaiian Twist: Add pineapple slices for a sweet and savory combo.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftover patties in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze cooked patties for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm patties in a skillet over medium heat or microwave for 1–2 minutes. Toast buns separately for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well, but it may need a bit of extra seasoning for flavor.
What’s the best cheese for a pizza burger?
Mozzarella is the classic choice, but provolone or cheddar also work well.
How do I keep the patties from falling apart?
Chilling the patties for 15 minutes before cooking helps them hold their shape.
Can I make this burger in an air fryer?
Yes, cook the patties at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Can I use store-bought pizza sauce?
Yes, store-bought marinara or pizza sauce works perfectly for convenience.
What type of buns work best?
Brioche buns add a nice sweetness, but classic hamburger buns or ciabatta also work well.
How do I get crispy pepperoni?
Cook the pepperoni slices in a pan for 1–2 minutes before adding them to the burger.
Can I cook the burgers on a stovetop instead of a grill?
Yes, a cast-iron skillet or non-stick pan works great for stovetop cooking.
What sides go well with this burger?
Garlic fries, onion rings, or a simple side salad pair perfectly.
Can I make this burger ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the patties and store them in the fridge before cooking. Assemble fresh for the best results.
Conclusion
The Pepperoni Pizza Burger is a delicious and fun way to enjoy the best of both worlds—pizza and burgers! With its juicy beef patty, gooey mozzarella, crispy pepperoni, and zesty marinara sauce, this burger is packed with bold flavors. Whether grilled or pan-cooked, it’s a guaranteed hit for any meal. Try it today and satisfy your pizza and burger cravings in one bite!
Print
- Total Time: 20 min
Description
A juicy beef patty topped with marinara, melted mozzarella, and crispy pepperoni on a toasted bun!
Ingredients
- 2 burger patties
- 2 burger buns
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese
- 6 pepperoni slices
- 1 tbsp butter (for toasting buns)
Instructions
- Cook burger patties to desired doneness.
- Toast buns with butter.
- Top patties with marinara, mozzarella, and pepperoni, then broil until cheese melts.
- Assemble and serve!
Notes
- Try using garlic butter on the buns for extra flavor.
- Add jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 10 min
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American