Imagine sinking your teeth into a juicy burger that delivers all the cheesy, saucy, pepperoni-packed flavors of a classic pizza—welcome to the world of Pepperoni Pizza Burgers. This creative fusion is a surefire hit whenever you’re craving comfort food with an extra dose of fun. Every bite is savory, melty, and utterly satisfying, making it the perfect pick for family dinners, casual gatherings, or nights when you just want something out of the ordinary.

Pepperoni Pizza Burgers Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making the perfect Pepperoni Pizza Burgers is surprisingly easy—all you need are a handful of essentials that work together to create irresistible layers of flavor and texture. From juicy beef to gooey cheese and spicy pepperoni, each ingredient brings its own magic to the party.

Ground beef (1 lb): Use 80/20 for juicy, flavorful patties that hold together beautifully.
Garlic powder (1/2 tsp): Adds a gentle, aromatic kick reminiscent of your favorite pizza sauce.
Dried oregano (1/2 tsp): The classic pizzeria herb—brings unmistakable Italian vibes to each bite.
Salt (1/2 tsp): Essential for seasoning the meat and allowing all the other flavors to shine.
Black pepper (1/4 tsp): Provides subtle heat and balances the richness of the beef.
Mozzarella cheese (4 slices): Melts into that dreamy, stretchy layer every true pizza lover craves.
Pizza sauce (1/2 cup): Offers sweet-tangy brightness and the unmistakable flavor of pizza.
Pepperoni (12 slices): The star topping—crispy at the edges, savory, and just a little spicy.
Hamburger buns (4): Choose soft, sturdy buns to soak up all the flavorful juices.
Olive oil or butter (1 tbsp): Toasted buns make all the difference for a restaurant-quality touch.
Optional—fresh basil or red pepper flakes: For extra color, freshness, and a pop of heat if you want it!

How to Make Pepperoni Pizza Burgers

Step 1: Mix and Season the Burger Patties

Start by combining your ground beef with garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Mix everything together gently, just until evenly blended—overmixing can toughen the patties, so keep it light. These classic pizza seasonings infuse each burger with Italian-inspired flavor from the inside out.

Step 2: Shape the Patties

Divide the seasoned beef mixture into four equal portions and shape each into a patty roughly the same size as your buns. Press a slight indentation in the center of each patty to help them cook evenly and prevent that classic burger “bulge” in the middle.

Step 3: Cook the Patties

Heat a skillet or outdoor grill to medium-high and cook the burger patties for about four to five minutes per side, until you reach your preferred level of doneness. As the patties cook, you’ll start to smell those irresistible pizza spices coming to life—get ready for some serious anticipation!

Step 4: Add the Pepperoni and Cheese

During the last minute of cooking, top each patty with three slices of pepperoni and a slice of mozzarella cheese. Cover the skillet or close the grill lid briefly; this helps the cheese melt totally and lets the pepperoni crisp up right on top of the burger, just like classic pizza.

Step 5: Toast the Buns

While the burgers finish up, toast your hamburger buns in a skillet with a little olive oil or butter. A golden, toasty exterior brings out the best in any burger, and it’ll help the buns stay sturdy under all that saucy, cheesy goodness.

Step 6: Assemble Your Pepperoni Pizza Burgers

Spread a couple tablespoons of pizza sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place the hot, cheesy, pepperoni-topped burger right on top, add another spoonful of sauce if you’re a saucy fan, then add optional fresh basil or red pepper flakes for extra flair. Top with the other half of the bun, serve immediately, and get ready for some big smiles.

How to Serve Pepperoni Pizza Burgers

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh basil brings a burst of color and herby freshness that brightens up each burger, while red pepper flakes let you add as much or as little heat as you like. You can even go wild with a drizzle of garlic butter for extra indulgence.

Side Dishes

Pepperoni Pizza Burgers practically beg for classic sides. Think crispy oven fries, a simple green salad, or even roasted veggies. If you want to amp up the nostalgia, serve with curly fries and a cold soda for the ultimate burger night at home.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or game day, turn the recipe into sliders—just use smaller buns and mini patties. Or, lay out a burger bar where everyone can personalize their toppings with extra pepperoni, sautéed mushrooms, or bell peppers. Kids love assembling their own pizza burgers, making dinnertime extra fun and interactive.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Pepperoni Pizza Burgers keep nicely in the fridge for up to three days. Store patties and buns separately if possible to help prevent sogginess, and always use airtight containers.

Freezing

To freeze, let the cooked patties (with cheese and pepperoni) cool completely, then wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil. Freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.

Reheating

Reheat patties gently in a covered skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding pizza sauce just before serving so things don’t get too soggy. Toast the buns fresh right before serving for that just-made warmth and texture.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Both ground turkey and chicken work well for Pepperoni Pizza Burgers, especially if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just make sure to check for doneness, as poultry cooks up a bit differently from beef.

What kind of pizza sauce should I use?

Use your favorite jarred or homemade pizza sauce—something robust and flavorful that you’d happily eat on pizza. If you like extra tang, add a little crushed tomato, or try a spicy version for more kick.

Can these burgers be cooked on the grill?

Definitely! Grill the patties over medium-high heat using the same timing as the stovetop method. Just watch as you add the cheese and pepperoni to prevent toppings from slipping, and keep the lid closed to melt the cheese thoroughly.

How can I make Pepperoni Pizza Burgers gluten-free?

Simply swap in your favorite gluten-free hamburger buns or serve the burger patty naked over a big salad—don’t skip the pizza sauce!

What other toppings go well with Pepperoni Pizza Burgers?

Get creative—try sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, or even sliced olives for more classic pizza flavors. A dash of Parmesan or a smear of pesto also takes things up a notch.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a burger enthusiast or a pizza devotee, Pepperoni Pizza Burgers bring the best of both worlds straight to your table. They’re quick, crowd-pleasing, and endlessly customizable. Give this recipe a try and watch it become a new favorite in your weeknight dinner rotation—you’ll want to make them again and again!

Pepperoni Pizza Burgers Recipe

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4.5 from 24 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

These Pepperoni Pizza Burgers are a delicious fusion of two classic favorites: pizza and burgers. Juicy beef patties seasoned with Italian herbs, topped with pepperoni slices, gooey mozzarella cheese, and savory pizza sauce, all sandwiched between toasted buns. A fun and flavorful twist on traditional burgers!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Burger Patties:

1 lb ground beef
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

For Assembly:

4 slices mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup pizza sauce
12 slices pepperoni
4 hamburger buns
1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for toasting buns)
Optional: fresh basil or red pepper flakes for garnish

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Instructions

Burger Patties: In a bowl, mix the ground beef with garlic powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Shape into 4 patties.
Cooking: Cook the patties on a skillet or grill for 4–5 minutes per side. Top each patty with pepperoni slices and mozzarella cheese in the last minute to melt.
Assembly: Toast the buns in a skillet with olive oil. Spread pizza sauce on the bottom bun, add the burger patty, more sauce, and toppings. Cap with the top bun.