Pizza Burgers Melty Pepperoni Mozzarella (Print Version)

Savory burgers topped with melty mozzarella, pepperoni, and rich pizza sauce on toasted buns.

# Ingredients:

→ Burger Patties

01 - 1 pound ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat)
02 - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
03 - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
04 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
05 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ Assembly and Toppings

06 - 4 hamburger buns, split and toasted
07 - 1/2 cup pizza sauce
08 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
09 - 16 to 24 slices pepperoni

# Instructions:

01 - In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until evenly seasoned, and form into 4 equal patties. Allow the patties to rest.
02 - Preheat the grill or a grill pan and the broiler to medium-high. Arrange the split buns, cut side up, on a baking sheet and toast under the broiler until golden brown. Remove the top halves and set aside.
03 - Cook the beef patties on the grill or grill pan for 4 to 5 minutes per side until cooked through.
04 - As the burgers cook, warm the pizza sauce in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Spread half the warm sauce evenly over the bottom buns, sprinkle with half the mozzarella, and layer with half the pepperoni slices. Broil for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
05 - Place a cooked burger patty on each prepared bottom bun. Top with the remaining sauce, cheese, and pepperoni. Broil briefly again until the cheese is bubbling and the pepperoni is crisped. Cover with bun tops and serve immediately.

# Notes:

01 - Letting the patties rest before cooking ensures a juicier, more flavorful result.