Pizza Pepperoni Burgers: A Flavor Explosion of Two All-Time Favorites
These Pizza Pepperoni Burgers are where comfort food dreams come true. Imagine a juicy burger patty packed with Italian seasoning, smothered in melty mozzarella cheese, topped with crispy pepperoni slices, and served on a toasted bun with marinara sauce. It’s part pizza, part burger, and 100% crave-worthy.
Whether you’re hosting a game day, grilling for the family, or just want something outrageously delicious, these burgers deliver the best of both classics in one bite.
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe is the perfect example of how two comfort foods can combine into something even better. It’s rich, cheesy, a little crispy, and totally satisfying. The seasoned beef takes on pizza flavors with oregano, garlic, and onion powder, while the toppings bring all the fun of a pepperoni pizza.
Plus, it’s easy to scale up for a crowd or personalize with your favorite pizza toppings.
Ingredients
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 burger buns
- Olive oil (for toasting buns)
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup sliced pepperoni
- ¼ cup marinara sauce (for spreading or dipping)
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Optional Add-Ons & Variations
- Add Veggies: Sautéed mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers.
- Spicy Version: Add banana peppers or hot sauce to the toppings.
- Swap the Cheese: Use provolone, cheddar, or pepper jack.
- Mini Sliders: Turn these into party-ready sliders for appetizers.
How to Make Pizza Pepperoni Burgers
1. Make the Patties
In a large bowl, mix ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Form into 4 evenly sized patties, slightly larger than your burger buns (they shrink a bit when cooked).
2. Cook the Burgers
Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high. If using a skillet, lightly coat with olive oil.
Cook burgers for 4–5 minutes per side, or until they reach 160°F internally.
3. Add the Pizza Toppings
In the last minute of cooking, top each patty with shredded mozzarella and pepperoni slices.
Cover the skillet or close the grill lid to melt the cheese and warm the pepperoni.
4. Toast the Buns
Brush the inside of the buns with olive oil and toast them face-down in a skillet or on the grill until golden, 1–2 minutes.
5. Assemble
Spread marinara sauce on the bottom bun, add the cheesy burger patty, top with basil leaves if desired, and crown with the top bun.
Tips for Burger Success
- Don’t overmix the beef. Just combine until spices are incorporated to keep patties tender.
- Use a lid. It helps the cheese melt evenly and makes the pepperoni crispy.
- Toasting the bun matters. Adds texture and keeps it from getting soggy.
- Serve right away. These burgers are best hot and gooey.
What to Serve with Pizza Burgers
Round out your pizza-burger feast with fun sides and dips:
- Beer Cheese Dip – perfect for pretzel bites or fries
- Sheet Pan Quesadillas – a cheesy appetizer to match the vibe
- Dorito Casserole – the ultimate side for indulgent food nights
- Chicken Enchiladas – make it a comfort food combo platter
- Cheesy Hot Dip – for dipping or topping your burger bun!
Storage & Leftovers
- Fridge: Store burger patties (without buns) in an airtight container for 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet or oven to re-crisp the pepperoni and remelt cheese.
- Make-ahead: Form patties and prep toppings ahead of time, then cook fresh for best flavor.
More Cheesy Crowd Favorites You’ll Love
Final Thoughts
These Pizza Pepperoni Burgers are loud, indulgent, and seriously satisfying. If you love the melty, meaty joy of a good pizza and the handheld comfort of a great burger, this recipe gives you both in one bite.
💬 Tried them? Drop your favorite toppings in the comments or tag @chefmaniac to share your burger stack! Follow us for more bold mashups and cheesy dinner ideas.
Leave a Reply