Scale

1 lb ground beef (80/20 preferred)

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

4 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into 4 cubes

1/2 cup marinara sauce

12 slices pepperoni

4 hamburger buns, toasted

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone

Fresh basil or parsley (optional)

1. In a bowl, mix ground beef with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

2. Divide into 8 equal portions. Flatten each into a patty.

3. Place a cube of mozzarella in the center of 4 patties. Top with the remaining patties and seal edges well.

4. Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Cook stuffed burgers 4–5 minutes per side until cooked through and cheese is melted.

5. During the last minute, add shredded cheese on top to melt.

6. Meanwhile, warm marinara sauce and toast buns.

7. Assemble burgers: bottom bun, stuffed patty, spoonful of marinara, 3 slices of pepperoni, top bun.

8. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve hot.

Make sure to seal patties tightly to prevent cheese from leaking.

Swap in ground turkey or chicken if preferred.

Serve with garlic fries or a Caesar salad for a full pizza-style meal.

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