Pizza Burger Recipe (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Burger Patties

01 - 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
02 - 1 lb ground Italian sausage
03 - 2 tsp pizza seasoning blend (oregano, basil, garlic)

→ Toppings

04 - 4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
05 - ½ cup marinara sauce
06 - 12-16 slices pepperoni
07 - ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

→ Buns & Extras

08 - 4 hamburger buns
09 - 2 tbsp butter for toasting buns

# Instructions:

01 - Fire up your grill, grill pan, or regular skillet to medium-high heat. You want it nice and hot for those perfect burger patties.
02 - In a large bowl, gently mix the ground beef, Italian sausage, and pizza seasoning until just combined. Don't overmix or you'll get tough burgers. Divide into 4 portions (about 8 oz each) and shape into patties slightly larger than your buns.
03 - Press a small indent into the center of each patty with your thumb. This little trick prevents the burgers from puffing up like a ball while cooking.
04 - Place the patties on the hot grill and cook for about 4 minutes on the first side. Resist the urge to press down on them - let them do their thing.
05 - While the burgers cook, warm your marinara sauce in a small pan over medium-low heat. Toss the pepperoni slices on a pan or piece of foil on the grill for a couple minutes to get them slightly crispy.
06 - Flip the burgers and cook for another 2-4 minutes until they reach your desired doneness (140°F for medium). About a minute before they're done, top each patty with a slice of mozzarella to melt.
07 - Butter the cut sides of your buns and place them face-down on the grill for 1-2 minutes until golden and toasty.
08 - Place each cheesy burger on a toasted bun bottom. Spoon warm marinara sauce over the top, add the warmed pepperoni, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Top with the other bun half and dig in!

# Notes:

01 - These burgers are like having pizza and burgers at the same time - the best of both worlds!
02 - Feel free to customize with your favorite pizza toppings like mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives.
03 - The Italian sausage adds amazing flavor, but you can use all beef if you prefer.
04 - Make sure your grill or pan is hot enough to get a good sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy.