Imagine the best of both worlds: the bold, spicy kick of pepperoni and the gooey, melted charm of Provolone cheese, all crowned within a buttery-soft brioche bun. That’s the magic of Pepperoni Burger Provolone Brioche, a burger that’s equal parts comfort food and crave-worthy Italian-American fusion. Every bite is packed with juicy, flavorful beef, pockets of pepperoni, and stretchy cheese—all tied together with a swipe of marinara and the pillowy richness of the bun. Trust me, you’ll want this jaw-dropping burger in your life (and on repeat).
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredient list for Pepperoni Burger Provolone Brioche is refreshingly straightforward, but each item plays a starring role. Gather these quality staples—they’re the secret to packing each layer with texture, color, and unforgettable flavor.
- Ground Beef (1 lb, 80/20 blend): This goldilocks ratio yields super juicy patties that stay tender and flavorful.
- Finely Chopped Pepperoni (1/2 cup): Mixing this right into the beef infuses bold, zesty flavor into every bite.
- Italian Seasoning (1 tsp): Adds those signature herby, slightly earthy notes that lean into the pizza-burger fusion.
- Garlic Powder (1/2 tsp): A subtle garlicky warmth that lifts the whole burger.
- Provolone Cheese (4 slices): Melts beautifully over the burger, giving it that creamy, slightly sharp Italian twist.
- Brioche Burger Buns (4): These soft, buttery buns take the Pepperoni Burger Provolone Brioche to the next level.
- Softened Butter (2 tbsp): For toasting the buns until irresistibly golden.
- Pizza or Marinara Sauce (1/4 cup, warmed): The finishing sauce that instantly evokes your favorite slice.
- Optional Toppings (fresh basil, sautéed onions or peppers): Deluxe add-ons for color, freshness, or extra savoriness.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste): Classic burger seasonings you can adjust to your preference.
How to Make Pepperoni Burger Provolone Brioche
Step 1: Mix the Patties
Start by combining your ground beef, finely chopped pepperoni, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and a pinch each of salt and pepper in a large mixing bowl. Use your hands or a fork to gently mix everything just until evenly combined—overmixing can toughen up your burgers. Divide the mixture into four equal portions, then shape them into patties that are slightly wider than your brioche buns to allow for any shrinkage during cooking.
Step 2: Toast the Brioche Buns
Take those beautiful brioche buns and, using your softened butter, spread a thin layer on the cut sides. Place the buns, buttered side down, on a heated skillet or grill surface. Toast until gorgeously golden and a bit crisp. This step not only adds irresistible flavor (hello, buttery goodness!) but also creates a sturdy base that holds up to saucy, cheesy burger toppings.
Step 3: Grill or Pan-Sear the Patties
With your buns toasting, preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Place the seasoned patties on the hot surface and let them cook undisturbed for about 3–4 minutes on the first side—look for a nice crust to develop. Flip, then continue cooking for another 3–4 minutes or until your desired level of doneness is reached. For extra juiciness, avoid pressing down on the patties with your spatula!
Step 4: Melt the Provolone and Add Extra Pepperoni
During the last minute of cooking, top each patty with a slice of Provolone cheese and, if you’re feeling indulgent, a few extra slices of pepperoni. Cover the skillet or close the grill lid briefly to help the cheese melt into that glorious, gooey blanket. The extra pepperoni crisps up just a bit, adding a punchy, pizza-like layer to the burger.
Step 5: Assemble Your Pepperoni Burger Provolone Brioche
To build your burger, place each cheesy patty on the bottom half of a brioche bun. Spoon over a generous dollop of warmed marinara or pizza sauce, then pile on any optional toppings—think fresh basil for brightness or sautéed onions and peppers for extra savor. Cap each burger with the toasted top bun and get ready for the best burger night you’ve had in ages!
How to Serve Pepperoni Burger Provolone Brioche
Garnishes
Make your Pepperoni Burger Provolone Brioche look as good as it tastes! Fresh basil leaves add a burst of fragrance and a pop of color. If you love a bit of extra richness, sprinkle on some grated Parmesan, or tuck in a few arugula leaves for peppery flair. The details make all the difference when it comes to eye-catching presentation.
Side Dishes
Pairing these burgers is a fun opportunity to play with textures: serve with crispy oven fries, a tangy Italian slaw, or even a side of simple Caesar salad. Roasted veggies or garlic knots do the trick if you’re leaning all-in on the pizza theme, making your meal feel restaurant-worthy but totally doable at home.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests? Try serving mini versions of Pepperoni Burger Provolone Brioche as sliders at your next party. Or go full “pizza night” by brushing the buns with a little garlic butter and sprinkling with Italian herbs before toasting. For a family-friendly meal, create a burger bar with a range of sauces (like garlic aioli or spicy Calabrian chili paste), letting everyone make their ideal bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you end up with an extra Pepperoni Burger Provolone Brioche or two, simply allow the burgers to cool to room temperature before wrapping individually in foil or airtight containers. Store the buns separately to keep them from going soggy. Kept in the fridge, they’ll be delicious for up to 3 days.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze cooked patties (wrap them well in plastic wrap and then foil). To freeze Pumpkin Ravioli as a head start, shape and freeze the raw patties separately, then cook from frozen, adding just a bit more time. Buns don’t always freeze as well, but you can refresh them in the oven if needed.
Reheating
To reheat your Pepperoni Burger Provolone Brioche, pop the patties in a 350°F oven (covered) for about 10–12 minutes, or until warmed through and the cheese is once again perfectly melty. If you like, give the buns a quick toast to restore that fresh-baked flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken makes a tasty, lighter alternative in Pepperoni Burger Provolone Brioche. Just be sure to add a little extra butter or olive oil to keep the leaner meat juicy.
What’s the best way to prevent the burger patties from falling apart?
Mix the ingredients gently and avoid overworking the meat. Shaping the patties just slightly larger than your buns also helps them hold together as they cook.
Can I prep any parts of this recipe in advance?
You sure can. Form the patties up to a day ahead and refrigerate (covered), then toast the brioche buns and warm the sauce just before serving for ultimate freshness.
Is there a vegetarian option for Pepperoni Burger Provolone Brioche?
Absolutely—swap the beef for a thick grilled portobello mushroom or a plant-based burger, and use vegetarian pepperoni. The flavors work beautifully with veggie alternatives.
How do I add more heat if I like it spicy?
Try hot pepperoni, add a dash of red pepper flakes to the burger mix, or drizzle with a spicy Calabrian chili oil at the end for a bold, fiery kick.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to shake up burger night with something extra-special, Pepperoni Burger Provolone Brioche is the answer. It’s fun, indulgent, and bursting with flavor in every layer. Gather your favorite people, whip up a batch, and let this become your new go-to comfort food!
Print
Pepperoni Burger Provolone Brioche Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 burgers 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the savory and cheesy goodness of a Pepperoni Burger Provolone Brioche, a delicious fusion of Italian flavors in burger form. This recipe combines juicy ground beef with spicy pepperoni, gooey Provolone cheese, and rich marinara sauce, all sandwiched between buttery brioche buns.
Ingredients
Main Burger:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pepperoni
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Additional Ingredients:
- 4 slices Provolone cheese
- 4 brioche burger buns
- 2 tbsp softened butter
- 1/4 cup pizza or marinara sauce (warmed)
- Optional toppings: fresh basil leaves, sautéed onions or bell peppers
Instructions
- Prepare Burger Patties: Mix ground beef, chopped pepperoni, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Shape into 4 patties.
- Toast Buns: Butter brioche bun halves and toast until golden brown.
- Cook Patties: Grill or cook patties on a skillet until desired doneness. Top with Provolone cheese and extra pepperoni slices to melt.
- Assemble Burgers: Place patties on toasted buns, add marinara sauce, optional toppings, and bun tops. Serve hot.
Notes
- Mixing pepperoni into the beef infuses flavor.
- Brioche buns add a buttery texture.
- For a spicier kick, use hot pepperoni or red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling or Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 640
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 960 mg
- Fat: 38 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
