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Crispy Pizza Smash Burger Recipe Easy Homemade Mozzarella Pepperoni Delight

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A crispy, gooey pepperoni-studded smash burger combining the best of pizza and burger flavors with melty mozzarella and a caramelized crust.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • 4 oz (115g) mozzarella cheese, shredded or sliced
  • About 20 pepperoni slices
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
  • 4 sturdy burger buns (brioche or potato buns recommended)
  • 2 tbsp butter, softened
  • Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato slices, pickles, or favorite burger sauce

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix lightly and form into 4 equal balls about 3 inches in diameter.
  2. Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and add oil. Let it get hot and slightly smoking.
  3. Place beef balls in the skillet spaced evenly. Using a spatula, press down firmly to flatten into thin patties about 1/4 inch thick. Hold pressure for 10-15 seconds to create a crispy crust.
  4. Cook patties without moving for 2-3 minutes until edges are golden brown and crispy.
  5. Place 5 pepperoni slices on each patty, then carefully flip the patties over.
  6. Immediately top each patty with mozzarella. Cover skillet with lid or foil and cook for 1-2 minutes until cheese is melted and pepperoni slightly crisped.
  7. While cheese melts, spread softened butter on cut sides of buns and toast in a separate pan or same skillet until golden and crispy, about 1-2 minutes.
  8. Assemble burgers by placing cheesy patties with pepperoni on bottom buns, add optional toppings, then crown with top buns. Serve immediately.

Notes

Ensure the skillet is very hot before smashing patties to get a crispy crust. Do not press patties after the initial smash to keep them juicy. Cover skillet while melting cheese to help it melt evenly. Toast buns with butter to prevent sogginess and add flavor. For gluten-free, use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps. Variations include using plant-based patties, spicy pepperoni, or different cheeses like provolone or fontina.

Nutrition

Keywords: pizza smash burger, crispy burger, mozzarella burger, pepperoni burger, easy burger recipe, homemade burger, smash burger, comfort food

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