Pizza Burger Pepperoni Marinara

This pizza burger brings together everything you love about two favorites juicy burgers and bold pizza flavors in every bite. With the richness of ground beef and Italian sausage blended together then crowned with melty fresh mozzarella bubbling marinara and crisp pepperoni the result is a burger that makes both kids and adults smile. Whether you are hosting a family BBQ or just need a quick weeknight dinner these burgers deliver big flavor in just half an hour.

I started making these on game days and they became my family’s most-requested burger. The first time I shared them with friends they were convinced I had ordered delivery and I was thrilled to see how fast they disappeared at the table.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: 80 percent lean keeps patties moist and tender look for bright red color and minimal liquid in packaging
• Ground Italian sausage: gives the burgers depth and true pizza shop flavor choose fresh sausage for best taste
• Pizza seasoning blend: brings oregano garlic and basil together for easy authentic flavor check that your blend smells fresh
• Fresh mozzarella: melts smoothly and adds rich stretch choose whole milk mozzarella in balls or logs for best results
• Marinara sauce: connects the pizza flavors and keeps the burger juicy opt for a thicker homestyle marinara if possible
• Pepperoni: adds that classic spicy kick and crispy edges use pre-sliced for convenience or ask for fresh at the deli counter
• Parmesan cheese: finishes each bite with salt and sharp brightness always choose real Parmesan and grate it fresh if you can
• Hamburger buns: sturdy enough to hold all the toppings pick a good bakery bun that will not fall apart
• Butter: spreads on the buns to toast them golden and adds richness real butter is best for flavor and browning

Instructions

Mix and Shape the Patties:

In a large bowl gently combine the ground beef Italian sausage and pizza seasoning with your hands or a fork just until blended. Form into four equal patties making them a bit wider than the buns to allow for shrinkage. Press a shallow indent into the center of each patty with your thumb so they cook evenly and do not puff up.

Preheat and Cook the Patties:

Preheat your grill or heavy skillet over medium high heat until shimmering or hot. Place the patties on the grill or pan and let them cook undisturbed for about four minutes on the first side. Flip and cook for another two to four minutes depending on thickness and desired doneness adding mozzarella in the last minute so it melts over the patties.

Warm the Sauce and Crisp the Pepperoni:

While the burgers are cooking heat the marinara sauce in a small saucepan over low so it is just warmed through. Lay out the pepperoni in a single layer on a grill safe pan or piece of foil and set it on the grill or in a dry skillet. Let it heat for one to two minutes until the edges start to crisp but watch so it does not burn.

Toast the Buns:

Spread a little butter on the cut side of each bun half. Place the buns cut side down on the grill or pan just until they turn golden and crisp this should take one to two minutes. Remove and set aside.

Assemble the Burgers:

Set each patty on the bottom half of a toasted bun. Spoon over a generous amount of warm marinara right on top of the cheese. Layer the crispy pepperoni over the sauce and finish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan. Cap with the top bun and press gently. Serve piping hot.

The mozzarella is what truly brings these burgers over the top for my family. Watching it stretch with each bite is nearly as good as eating it. One memorable summer my nephew dubbed these his dream burger and we have made them for every backyard cookout since.

Storage Tips

Store extra burger patties in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For reheating set patties in a covered skillet over low heat or in an oven at three hundred degrees until hot. Keep the buns and toppings separate until assembling to avoid soggy bread.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are missing Italian sausage you can substitute more beef but be sure to add a bit of extra pizza seasoning for that distinct flavor profile. Mozzarella melts beautifully but provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses works if you need an alternative. Marinara can be replaced with pizza sauce or your favorite tomato sauce.

Serving Suggestions

These pizza burgers are irresistibly good with classic baked fries or a side of Caesar salad. For a true pizzeria vibe add a few garlic knots on the side. Serving with extra marinara for dipping or drizzling makes these feel like a real treat.

Cultural Context

Pizza burgers are a playful mashup that takes the best of classic American burgers and the taste of a Friday night pizza. There is something nostalgic about a recipe that bridges cultures and reminds you of both favorite fast food hangouts and big family-style Italian dinners.

Seasonal Adaptations

Grill the burgers outdoors during summer BBQ season for a smoky touch. Top with sliced fresh tomatoes or basil in late summer when gardens are bursting. Try spicy pickled peppers or roasted red peppers for a winter version that brings a little heat.

Success Stories

One friend who swore she never liked burgers tried these and ended up texting for the recipe within hours. I often freeze extra patties to have on hand for impromptu pizza nights and they have become a first request for birthday parties in our house.

Freezer Meal Conversion

You can shape and freeze the uncooked patties between layers of parchment in a sealed bag for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and grill as usual for an easy make ahead dinner.

These pizza burgers are sure to become one of your most loved dinner tricks. You really cannot beat how easy and crowd-pleasing they are!

Common Questions About the Recipe

→ Can I use all beef instead of a beef and sausage blend?

Yes, using all ground beef works, but including Italian sausage gives a richer, more distinct pizza-inspired flavor. If going all beef, increase the seasoning for depth.

→ How do I keep burger patties from puffing up while cooking?

Gently press a small indent into the center of each patty before grilling. This helps the patty stay flat and hold toppings well.

→ How will I know when the burgers are fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check for 140°F for medium doneness. The patties should be firm but still juicy when pressed lightly.

→ What additional toppings can I use for more pizza flavor?

Try sautéed mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, or black olives. Cook vegetables first so the burger buns stay crisp.

→ What’s the secret to crispy pepperoni inside the burger?

Briefly grill or pan-cook pepperoni slices for 1–2 minutes until edges are crisp before layering onto the patty.

→ How should leftovers be stored and reheated for best texture?

Refrigerate patties separately from buns and toppings. Reheat patties in a skillet and toast fresh buns before assembling.