Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
  • 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped (approx. 75g)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28 ounce / 794g) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml) red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of a kick)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) tomato paste (for deeper tomato flavor)
  • 1.5 pounds (680g) ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor)
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml) smoked paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 4 slices mozzarella cheese
  • 8 slices pepperoni (or salami if you're feeling fancy)
  • 4 burger buns (brioche or sesame seed are good choices)
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) butter, melted (for toasting the buns)
  • Optional toppings: fresh basil leaves, grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

  1. Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil. Add crushed tomatoes, herbs, red pepper flakes (if using), tomato paste, salt and pepper. Simmer until thickened.
  2. Gently combine ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Form into 4 equal patties.
  3. Grill, pan-fry, or use a cast-iron skillet. Cook to your desired doneness (medium-rare to well-done). Check internal temperature for safety.
  4. During the last minute of cooking, top each burger with 2 slices of pepperoni and a slice of mozzarella cheese. Allow cheese to melt.
  5. Brush the cut sides of the buns with melted butter and toast on the grill or in a pan until golden brown.
  6. Spread pizza sauce on the bottom bun. Add the cheeseburger patty. Top with the other half of the bun.
  7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and/or Parmesan cheese if desired.