Pizza–Pepperoni Mozzarella Burger

The Ultimate Mashup of Pizza and Burger for Comfort Food Lovers

When two of the most beloved comfort foods—pizza and burgers—collide, the result is nothing short of culinary bliss. The Pizza–Pepperoni Mozzarella Burger is a hearty, indulgent creation that fuses juicy grilled beef with the cheesy, saucy goodness of pizza. This gourmet-style burger is stacked with layers of melted mozzarella, zesty pizza sauce, and crispy pepperoni, all nestled in a toasted bun that adds just the right touch of crunch. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, planning a weekend family feast, or simply craving something a little extra on a weeknight, this burger is a guaranteed hit.

In this article, you’ll find a detailed breakdown of the ingredients, comprehensive step-by-step directions, expert tips to customize and elevate the recipe, and all the information you need to turn this into a go-to favorite. Buckle up—because your taste buds are in for a ride.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Combines two classics: burger and pizza
Family-friendly and kid-approved
Simple to make with pantry staples
Great for cookouts, parties, or indulgent dinners
Highly customizable for various preferences
Ready in under 30 minutes

Ingredients (with US Cup Measurements)

To make 4 hearty Pizza–Pepperoni Mozzarella Burgers, you’ll need:

For the Patties:

1 lb ground beef (80/20 recommended for juiciness)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp salt
½ tsp freshly ground black pepper

For the Toppings:

½ cup pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
4 oz pepperoni slices (about 1/2 cup, chopped or whole)
1 tsp dried oregano (optional for pizza flavor boost)
Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)

For the Assembly:

4 hamburger buns (brioche or sesame buns work beautifully)
Butter (for toasting buns)
Extra sauce for spreading (approximately 2 tablespoons per bun)

Step-by-Step Directions

Stage 1: Prepare the Burger Patties

Mix the Meat:
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined—don’t overwork the meat.
Shape the Patties:
Divide the mixture into four equal portions and form into patties about ¾ inch thick. Press a slight indentation in the center with your thumb to prevent them from puffing up while cooking.
Rest:
Let the patties rest at room temperature for about 10 minutes while prepping the other ingredients. This ensures even cooking.

Stage 2: Cook the Patties

Heat the Grill or Pan:
Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking.
Grill the Burgers:
Place the patties on the grill or pan. Cook for 3–5 minutes per side or until they reach an internal temperature of 155°F. (They’ll finish cooking during the cheese melting step.)

Stage 3: Add Pizza Toppings

Add Sauce and Cheese:
Spoon 2 tablespoons of pizza sauce onto each patty. Top with a generous layer of mozzarella cheese and several slices of pepperoni.
Melt and Bubble:
Close the grill lid (or cover the pan with a lid) for 2–3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the pepperoni crisps slightly.

Stage 4: Toast the Buns

Butter the Buns:
Lightly butter the cut side of each bun.
Toast:
Place buns butter-side down on the grill or pan for 1–2 minutes until golden and crisp.

Stage 5: Assemble the Burgers

Build the Burger:
Spread an extra tablespoon of pizza sauce on the bottom bun. Add the patty with melted cheese and pepperoni. Top with fresh basil if using. Place the top bun and press down gently.
Serve Hot:
Serve immediately while the cheese is melty and the sauce is warm.

Preparation Time and Nutrition

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20–25 minutes
Servings: 4 burgers
Calories (approx.): 850 kcal per serving
(Based on standard ingredients. Calories will vary based on brand and portion size.)

Expert Tips and Variations

Customize the Burger

Use Italian sausage: Substitute half of the ground beef with Italian sausage for extra spice and flavor.
Add vegetables: Sautéed onions, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers can be added for a pizza-supreme vibe.
Switch the cheese: Try provolone, cheddar, or fontina for a different cheese profile.
Go spicy: Add red pepper flakes or spicy pepperoni for a kick.

Healthier Swaps

Use lean ground turkey or plant-based patties for a lighter option.
Opt for low-fat cheese or whole-wheat buns.
Swap pepperoni for turkey pepperoni or vegan slices.

Suggested Side Dishes

Garlic parmesan fries
Crispy onion rings
Caesar salad
Coleslaw
Sweet potato wedges

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers:

Refrigerate: Keep cooked patties in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Wrap patties tightly and freeze for up to 2 months (without toppings).

Reheating:

Warm in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes, or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

Optional Homemade Pizza Sauce

To take your burger to the next level, consider making your own pizza sauce. It’s quick, flavorful, and free from additives.

Ingredients:

1 cup crushed tomatoes
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
½ teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt to taste

Instructions:

Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté garlic until fragrant.
Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, and pepper flakes.
Simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
Season with salt to taste.

This sauce can be used in place of store-bought options for a richer, fresher taste.

When to Serve

This burger is perfect for a wide variety of occasions:

Weekend cookouts
Game day parties
Birthday celebrations
Casual date nights
Kids’ pizza-themed nights
Late-night comfort food cravings

Final Thoughts

The Pizza–Pepperoni Mozzarella Burger is a fusion recipe that celebrates indulgence. It captures everything we love about burgers—the juiciness, the texture, the heartiness—and wraps it in the familiar flavors of a classic pepperoni pizza. With melted cheese, robust sauce, and a grilled patty that hits all the right savory notes, it’s a combination that feels both gourmet and nostalgic.