The “Classic Diner” Pizza Burgers

The Savory Crumble In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef (and sausage, if using). Drain the excess grease.
Infuse the Pizza Flavor Stir in the diced pepperoni, garlic powder, and oregano. Let the pepperoni render its oil into the beef for about 2 minutes—this is where that signature “pizza” smell comes from.
The Simmer Pour in the pizza sauce. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 5–10 minutes until the sauce has thickened and coated the meat completely. It shouldn’t be “soupy,” but thick and scoopable.
The Assembly Place the bottom halves of your toasted buns on a baking sheet. Spoon a generous amount of the meat mixture onto each bun.
The Cheese “Lid” Pile the mozzarella cheese high on top of the meat. If you like “Supreme” pizza, add your olives or peppers on top of the cheese now.
The Broil Place the baking sheet under the oven broiler for 1–2 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and has those beautiful brown toasted spots.
Top it Off Place the top bun on and serve immediately while the cheese is still stretchy.

Toast Your Buns: Because the meat is saucy, an untoasted bun will get soggy fast. A quick toast with a little butter or garlic salt creates a moisture barrier.
The Pepperoni Trick: Don’t just put slices on top; dicing the pepperoni and cooking it into the meat ensures that spicy, salty oil seasons every single bite of the burger.
The Cheese Blend: For the best “pull,” use low-moisture mozzarella. If you want more “bite,” mix in a little Provolone or Parmesan.