If you are craving a burger that brings a thrilling twist to your usual dinner lineup, the Pepperoni Burger with Provolone and Brioche Recipe is exactly what you need. This indulgent masterpiece combines the smoky spice of pepperoni with melted provolone cheese and buttery brioche buns, creating a flavorful experience that’s juicy, cheesy, and irresistibly satisfying. Every bite bursts with vibrant layers of texture and taste, from the perfectly grilled beef patty to the sweet, sautéed onions and peppers, making it a sure crowd-pleaser for any casual night or get-together.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping the ingredients straightforward and pantry-friendly allows the bold flavors of this burger to shine. Each component plays a special role in delivering balance, from the creamy garlic mayo that adds a subtle kick, to the fresh vegetables that lend sweetness and crunch.
- 12 slices deli-style pepperoni: Adds a classic spicy, slightly smoky pop of flavor that complements the beef perfectly.
- 1 red onion, finely chopped: Provides a mild sharpness and sweetness once sautéed to soften.
- 1 green bell pepper, diced: Offers crisp texture and a fresh, slightly sweet taste that brightens the burger.
- 1 ½ pounds 80/20 ground chuck: The ideal meat ratio for juicy, flavorful patties that hold together well.
- Pinches of salt, garlic powder, and pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the natural meat flavors and balance the richness.
- ½ cup mayonnaise: Forms the base for a creamy, garlicky spread that ties the burger dynamics together.
- Brioche buns: Soft, buttery buns that soak up juices without falling apart, adding a slightly sweet note.
- 2 tablespoons garlic paste: Combined with mayo to create a savory garlic spread with great depth.
- Can of pre-made pizza sauce: Brings familiar tomato tang and herbs to mimic that beloved pizza essence.
- 12 slices provolone cheese: Melts beautifully over the patties, layering creamy, mild smokiness into every bite.
How to Make Pepperoni Burger with Provolone and Brioche Recipe
Step 1: Shape and Chill the Patties
Begin by shaping your ground chuck into 4 evenly sized patties. This helps them cook uniformly and retain optimal juiciness. Pop them into the fridge for 35 to 40 minutes to firm up, which prevents shrinking and ensures a better sear during grilling.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Mayo
While your patties chill, mix the garlic paste into the mayonnaise until smooth. Set this deliciously creamy mixture aside—it will become a key flavor player and add moisture to each bite as a spread on the brioche buns.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions and Peppers
Dice your red onion and green bell pepper finely enough to soften quickly but retain some texture. Toss them into a hot cast iron skillet with a bit of butter and salt. Stir continuously for 8-10 minutes until they turn tender and sweet, adding a delightful contrast to the savory burger elements.
Step 4: Season and Grill the Patties
Generously season each side of your burgers with salt, garlic powder, and pepper to amplify the meaty flavor. Grill them over direct heat for about 6 minutes per side, aiming for a nice crust that locks in all the savory juices.
Step 5: Warm the Pepperoni Slices
While the patties cook, lightly heat a cast iron skillet and warm the deli-style pepperoni slices. Sear each side for 1 to 1.5 minutes, just until they begin to curl and crisp slightly—this intensifies their flavor and adds a wonderful textural pop.
Step 6: Layer the Cheese, Sauce, and Pepperoni
After flipping the patties, grill for two more minutes before generously spooning pizza sauce on top. Immediately add slices of provolone cheese and arrange the warm pepperoni on top of the cheese. Close the grill lid and let everything melt together for 4 minutes—this step creates that gooey, cheesy, saucy harmony that defines this burger.
Step 7: Toast and Assemble the Brioche Buns
Lightly toast your brioche buns to introduce a subtle crunch and warm softness. Spread your garlicky mayo on both cut sides, then build your burger layers: start with the perfectly grilled patty stacked with melted cheese, sauce, and pepperoni, then top with sautéed onions and peppers before placing the bun top on. Now it’s ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Pepperoni Burger with Provolone and Brioche Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil can brighten up the plate and add a herbaceous aroma. Pickles or a handful of crispy lettuce leaves provide a fresh crunch that contrasts well with the rich burger flavors.
Side Dishes
Pair this burger with crispy sweet potato fries, classic kettle chips, or even a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette to balance out the hearty richness. The vibrant colors and textures from these sides perfectly complement the burger.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Pepperoni Burger with Provolone and Brioche Recipe on a wooden board with a small ramekin of extra pizza sauce or garlic mayo for dipping. Layer the sautéed veggies on the side for guests to add to their liking for a more interactive and fun experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover patties can be wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the brioche buns separate to prevent them from becoming soggy.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked patties in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat patties gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the oven to maintain juiciness without drying out. Toast the buns fresh just before assembling again for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While provolone is perfect for its melting properties and mild smokiness, you could try mozzarella for a milder taste or even a sharp cheddar for extra bite. Just make sure it melts well to keep the burger satisfying.
Is it necessary to use brioche buns?
Brioche buns add a lovely buttery sweetness that complements the spicy pepperoni and savory beef. However, any soft, high-quality burger bun will work if brioche isn’t available.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap brioche buns for gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it easy to adapt.
What’s the best way to cook the pepperoni?
Quickly warming the pepperoni in a hot skillet crisps the edges slightly and enhances the flavor without making it tough. Avoid overcooking to keep it tender yet flavorful.
Can I prepare the burger patties in advance?
Yes, shaping the patties a day ahead and storing them in the fridge helps their texture. Just be sure to cover them well to prevent drying out. Grill fresh for the best taste experience.
Final Thoughts
There is just something incredibly satisfying about a Pepperoni Burger with Provolone and Brioche Recipe that feels like an elevated comfort food hug. Once you try it, this burger will become a fast favorite for sharing with family and friends. It’s a fantastic way to mix the flavors of pizza with a classic burger, offering a delicious meal that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. So grab your ingredients, fire up the grill, and get ready to enjoy a truly sensational bite of joy!
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Pepperoni Burger with Provolone and Brioche Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Pepperoni Burger Provolone Brioche recipe delivers a flavorful twist on a classic burger by combining juicy, seasoned ground chuck patties with melted provolone cheese, spicy pepperoni slices, and sautéed onions and green peppers. Served on buttery brioche buns slathered with a garlic-infused mayo, these burgers promise a mouthwatering, savory experience perfect for a hearty meal.
Ingredients
For the Patties and Toppings
- 12 slices of deli-style pepperoni
- 1 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 ½ pounds of 80/20 ground chuck
- A pinch of salt, garlic powder, and pepper for seasoning
- 12 slices of provolone cheese
- A can of pre-made pizza sauce
For the Sauce
- ½ cup of mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons of garlic paste
For the Buns
- Brioche buns (1 pack or 8 pieces)
Instructions
- Chill the Patties: Shape the ground chuck into burger patties and place them in the refrigerator for 35 to 40 minutes to firm up, which helps prevent them from falling apart during cooking.
- Prepare Garlic Mayo: Stir the garlic paste into the mayonnaise until well combined, then set the mixture aside for later use as a flavorful spread on the buns.
- Sauté Vegetables: Dice red onion and green bell pepper. Heat a cast iron skillet, add butter, then toss in the diced veggies with a pinch of salt. Stir frequently for 8 to 10 minutes until the vegetables are soft and tender. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Season and Grill Patties: Generously season the burger patties with salt, garlic powder, and pepper. Grill them over direct heat for about 6 minutes on the first side to achieve a good sear.
- Warm Pepperoni: While the patties cook, heat a cast iron skillet and briefly warm the deli pepperoni slices. Cook each side for approximately 1 to 1.5 minutes until slightly crisp and heated through.
- Finish Grilling and Add Toppings: Flip the burgers after the first 6 minutes and grill for an additional 2 minutes. Then, layer each patty with pizza sauce, provolone cheese, and the warmed pepperoni slices. Close the grill lid and cook for another 4 minutes to melt the cheese and meld the flavors. Remove patties and place on a cooling rack.
- Toast Buns and Assemble: Lightly toast the brioche buns. Spread the garlic mayo on both the top and bottom buns. Place the grilled patty on the bottom bun, add the sautéed onions and peppers, then cap with the top bun. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious pepperoni burger.
Notes
- Use 80/20 ground chuck for juicy and flavorful burgers.
- Chilling the patties before grilling helps maintain their shape.
- Pre-made pizza sauce makes the recipe quicker, but homemade sauce can be used for extra flavor.
- For an extra smoky flavor, consider grilling the vegetables briefly instead of sautéing.
- Letting the patties rest on a cooling rack after grilling helps retain juices.
- Brioche buns enhance the richness, but any soft burger buns can be substituted.
