Ingredients:

  • 1 lb Lean Ground Beef (90/10)
  • 0.5 lb Italian Pork Sausage, casing removed
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp Dried Oregano
  • 1/2 tsp Smoked Paprika
  • 1/2 cup Thick Pizza Sauce or Marinara reduction
  • 1 cup Shredded Low-Moisture Mozzarella
  • 14 slices Thinly sliced Pepperoni
  • 4 Brioche or Ciabatta buns
  • 2 tbsp Unsalted Butter, softened
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 4 Fresh Basil leaves, chiffonade

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, gently fold together the ground beef, Italian sausage, parmesan, oregano, and smoked paprika. Divide into 4 equal portions and shape into patties slightly wider than your buns.
  2. Mix the softened butter with garlic powder and spread evenly onto the cut sides of the buns.
  3. Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Place the patties in the skillet and sear for 5 minutes per side until a deep, mahogany crust forms and internal temperature reaches 160°F.
  4. While the burgers cook, toast the garlic-buttered buns in a separate pan until golden and crisp.
  5. Reduce skillet heat to medium. Spread 2 tablespoons of pizza sauce over each patty. Layer 3-4 pepperoni slices over the sauce, followed by a quarter-cup of mozzarella cheese.
  6. Place a basting cover or lid over the patties for 1 minute to melt the cheese until bubbling.
  7. Assemble the burgers on the toasted buns and garnish with fresh basil chiffonade.