Pizza Burger with Pepperoni & Mozzarella

This Pizza Burger with Pepperoni & Mozzarella turns a juicy beef patty into a mini pizza on a bun—topped with marinara, melted mozzarella, and crisp pepperoni. It’s a fun fusion of two all-time favorites in every flavorful bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this burger combines the satisfying juiciness of a classic cheeseburger with all the best pizza toppings. There’s no need to choose between pizza night or burger night—this mash-up has both, with gooey cheese, zesty sauce, and savory pepperoni in a handheld form. It’s easy, playful, and always a crowd-pleaser.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef (80/20 blend)

• Salt and pepper

• Garlic powder

• Marinara sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)

• Sliced mozzarella cheese or fresh mozzarella

• Pepperoni slices

• Burger buns (toasted)

• Olive oil or butter (for toasting buns)

• Optional toppings: fresh basil or oregano, red pepper flakes, grated Parmesan

directions

1. Shape the patties: In a bowl, season ground beef with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Shape into patties slightly larger than the buns, with a shallow dimple in the center to prevent puffing.

2. Cook the patties: Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Cook patties 4–5 minutes per side (or to desired doneness). During the last minute of cooking on the second side, spoon marinara over each patty, top with mozzarella slices, and layer pepperoni. Cover or tent to melt the cheese.

3. Toast the buns: While the cheese is melting, brush buns with butter or olive oil and toast them cut-side down until golden.

4. Assemble: Spread extra marinara on the bottom bun (if desired), add the cheesy pepperoni-topped patty, then top with basil or oregano, a sprinkle of Parmesan or red pepper flakes, and the top bun.

5. Serve: Enjoy immediately while the cheese is melty and the flavors are warm.

Servings and timing

This makes 4 burgers.

• Preparation time: about 10 minutes

• Cook time: around 12 minutes

• Total time: approximately 22 minutes

Variations

• Meat swap: I sometimes use ground turkey or Italian sausage for a twist.

• Cheese blend: I mix in provolone or fontina for extra meltiness.

• Extra toppings: Add sautéed onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms for more pizza-style flair.

• Spicy kick: A smear of spicy marinara or a few pepperoncini elevate the flavor.

storage/reheating

• Storage: I store leftover patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: I reheat patties in a skillet until warmed and cheese re-melted, then re-toast buns briefly. Avoid microwaving the assembled burger to maintain texture.

FAQs

Can I use fresh ground beef from the butcher?

I do—freshly ground beef gives richer flavor, and I still season it simply with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Will the pepperoni crisp nicely in the burger?

Yes—if I cover the skillet briefly while the cheese melts, the pepperoni edges crisp slightly without drying out.

Can I assemble these ahead of time?

I wouldn’t fully assemble them ahead—cheese is best fresh-melted. But I pre-cook patties and store them, then reheat and assemble just before serving.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Sure! I substitute a plant-based burger patty and use vegetarian pepperoni. I still spoon on marinara and melt cheese on top.

What bun works best?

I like brioche or potato buns because their slight sweetness balances the savory sauce and cheese, and they get toasty when lightly buttered.

Conclusion

This Pizza Burger with Pepperoni & Mozzarella is my go-to when I want something fun, cheesy, and totally satisfying. It’s a simple twist on comfort food favorites that always hits the mark. I hope you enjoy building and savoring these pizza-style burgers as much as I do!