All the Flavor of Pizza, Packed in a Juicy Burger

Say hello to your new favorite mash-up: the Pizza Burger with Pepperoni & Mozzarella. This crave-worthy creation brings together everything you love about a pepperoni pizza—gooey cheese, tangy marinara, and crispy pepperoni—tucked between a juicy beef patty and a toasty bun. It’s a handheld slice of pizza heaven with all the juicy satisfaction of a classic burger.

Perfect for backyard cookouts, game-day dinners, or weeknight indulgence, this burger is a fun, flavor-packed twist that satisfies both pizza and burger cravings at once.

🌟 Why This Recipe Works

  • Juicy & Cheesy: A well-seasoned burger patty topped with melty mozzarella gives this burger that perfect bite.

  • Crispy Pepperoni: Toasted pepperoni slices add bold, spicy crunch.

  • Pizza Sauce Bonus: A layer of marinara or pizza sauce brings that unmistakable pizzeria flavor.

  • Quick to Make: Comes together in 30 minutes or less—no deep prep required.

  • Customizable: Make it spicy, smoky, or even stuffed—your call.

🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

Burger Patties

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for juiciness)

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • ½ tsp dried oregano

  • ½ tsp salt

  • ½ tsp black pepper

Pizza Toppings

  • ¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

  • ¼ cup sliced pepperoni

  • ½ cup marinara or pizza sauce

  • 4 burger buns, toasted

  • 2 tbsp butter or olive oil (for toasting buns)

Optional Add-Ons

  • Grated Parmesan cheese

  • Fresh basil or oregano

  • Red pepper flakes

  • Sautéed onions or mushrooms

  • Pickled jalapeños (for heat!)

💡 Tip: You can use turkey, chicken, or plant-based ground meat if you prefer.

🔥 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Mix and Shape Patties

In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Gently mix—don’t overwork the meat. Divide into 4 equal portions and form into patties, making a slight indentation in the center to prevent bulging while cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Patties

Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 3–4 minutes per side, depending on thickness and desired doneness. Add mozzarella cheese during the last 1–2 minutes of cooking so it melts perfectly over the top.

Step 3: Toast the Buns

While the burgers cook, lightly butter the insides of the buns and toast them cut side down in a skillet or on the grill until golden.

Step 4: Crisp the Pepperoni

In a dry pan over medium heat, cook the pepperoni slices for 1–2 minutes until they start to curl and crisp. Drain on paper towels.

Step 5: Assemble the Burgers

Start with a toasted bun base, add a spoonful of warmed marinara or pizza sauce, then the cheesy burger patty. Top with crispy pepperoni and more sauce if you like. Add any extra toppings (like Parmesan, basil, or red pepper flakes), then finish with the top bun.

🔄 Variations to Try

  • Stuffed Burger: Place mozzarella and pepperoni inside the patty for a molten center.

  • Spicy Version: Use hot pepperoni, add jalapeños, or mix red pepper flakes into the sauce.

  • Veggie-Loaded: Add sautéed mushrooms, onions, or roasted bell peppers.

  • Chicken Parm Burger Style: Swap beef for a breaded chicken patty and go full chicken parm.

🍽️ Serving Ideas

Sides to Serve With:

  • Garlic parmesan fries

  • Caesar salad

  • Mozzarella sticks

  • Coleslaw or pasta salad

  • Roasted broccoli or zucchini fries

Sauces for Dipping:

  • Extra marinara

  • Garlic butter

  • Ranch or blue cheese

🧊 Storage + Reheating

Fridge: Store patties, sauce, and toppings separately for best texture. Keeps for 3–4 days.
Freezer: Freeze uncooked patties with wax paper between them for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Warm patties in a skillet with a splash of water and cover to steam gently.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this in the oven?
Yes—bake patties at 400°F for 15–18 minutes, then broil cheese and assemble.

Can I use fresh mozzarella?
Definitely, but pat it dry before adding to avoid sogginess.

What’s the best sauce?
A thick, flavorful marinara or classic pizza sauce is ideal. Avoid anything too watery.

Can I prep ahead for a party?
Absolutely! Cook the patties and prep the toppings ahead, then warm and assemble just before serving.

🍕 Final Thoughts

The Pizza Burger with Pepperoni & Mozzarella is the ultimate comfort food crossover—cheesy, saucy, and packed with craveable flavor. It’s perfect for pizza lovers, burger fans, and anyone who just wants to shake up their dinner routine with something bold and fun. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.