Pepperoni Pizza Burger (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Burger Patties

01 - 1 lb 80% lean ground beef
02 - 1/4 lb Italian sausage, mild or spicy
03 - Salt and black pepper to taste

→ Pizza Toppings

04 - 20-24 slices pepperoni
05 - 1/2 cup pizza sauce
06 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
07 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

→ Buns and Seasoning

08 - 4 hamburger buns
09 - 2 tablespoons butter
10 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic herb seasoning

# Instructions:

01 - Heat your grill to high heat. You'll be cooking on medium-high heat, but starting hot helps get those perfect grill marks.
02 - In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and stir in the garlic herb seasoning. Set aside for brushing the buns.
03 - Lay pepperoni slices on paper towels without overlapping. Microwave for 15 seconds to remove excess grease and make them slightly crispy. Set aside.
04 - Mix ground beef and Italian sausage in a bowl. Divide into 4 portions and gently form into patties, making a small indent in the center to prevent puffing. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
05 - Reduce grill heat to medium-high. Place patties on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side for medium doneness. Don't press down on the patties while cooking.
06 - Brush cut sides of buns with the garlic butter mixture. Place cut-side down on the grill for about 1 minute until golden with nice grill marks.
07 - Place each cooked patty on a bottom bun. Top with a spoonful of pizza sauce, shredded mozzarella, and pepperoni slices. Place under broiler for 1-2 minutes or use indirect heat on grill with lid closed to melt cheese.
08 - Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and top with the upper bun. Serve immediately while the cheese is melted and gooey.

# Notes:

01 - The Italian sausage mixed into the beef adds extra pizza flavor
02 - Pre-cooking pepperoni removes excess grease and adds crispiness
03 - Don't skip the garlic butter on the buns - it makes a big difference