Sausage-and-Peppers Burgers: A Flavorful Twist on the Classic Burger
Rich Italian-inspired patties crowned with sautéed vegetables and melted provolone for a mouthwatering experience.
There are few dishes as comforting and universally loved as a well-made burger. Yet, when you blend the robust flavors of Italian sausage with the comforting familiarity of ground beef, top it all with a generous helping of sautéed peppers and onions, and finish with stretchy melted provolone, you get an entirely new classic—the Sausage-and-Peppers Burger. Inspired by the vibrant flavors of Italian-American cuisine, this burger brings backyard cookouts and family suppers to a new level of deliciousness. Here’s everything you need to know to create your own, from ingredients and step-by-step directions to expert tips and serving suggestions.
Table of Contents
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ingredients You’ll Need
- Essential Equipment
- Step-by-Step Directions
- Burger Building Tips
- Serving Suggestions
- Variations and Substitutions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unbeatable Flavor: Combining ground beef with sweet Italian sausage delivers a robust, juicy burger.
- Savory Toppings: Sautéed bell peppers and onions add classic Italian-American flair and irresistible sweetness.
- Gooey Melted Cheese: Melted provolone provides the perfect creamy finish.
- Delicious Any Time: These burgers are fantastic for cookouts, game day, or a special family dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Olive oil | 2 Tbsp | For sautéeing vegetables |
| Red bell peppers, sliced | 2 | Sliced into strips |
| Large onion, sliced | 1 | Yellow or white onion works best |
| Kosher salt | 1 tsp + pinch | |
| Black pepper | 1 tsp + pinch | Freshly ground recommended |
| Garlic cloves, sliced | 3 | Sliced thin |
| Pizza sauce | 1/2 cup | Makes peppers/onion topping salad |
| Ground beef (80/20) | 2 lb | 80/20 blend for juiciness |
| Sweet Italian sausage (casings removed) | 1 lb | Adds flavor and richness |
| Dried ground sage | 1/2 tsp | Earthy, aromatic herb |
| Dried oregano | 1/2 tsp | Classic in Italian cooking |
| Provolone cheese, sliced | 6 slices | Melts beautifully over burgers |
| Semolina rolls, split and toasted | 6 | Soft interior, sturdy crust |
| Fresh basil, torn | To taste | Sprinkled just before serving |
Feel free to adjust the amounts for bigger crowds, or swap ingredients based on dietary preferences. The starring roles here are the Italian sausage, peppers, and melty cheese—the heart of this Italian-inspired burger.
Essential Equipment
- Grill: Charcoal or gas grill (medium heat)
- Large skillet: Cast iron or heavy-bottomed preferred
- Mixing bowl: For combining meats and seasonings
- Spatula and tongs: For sautéing and flipping burgers
- Meat thermometer: Optional, for doneness
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Pepper and Onion Mixture
- Preheat your grill to medium.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Once shimmering, toss in sliced bell peppers and onion. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté, stirring frequently, until lightly browned and just tender—about 8–10 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook for just 1 minute more until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in pizza sauce and 1/2 cup water. Simmer until thick and saucy, yet still scoopable—about 5 minutes. Set aside and keep warm.
Step 2: Make and Shape the Burger Patties
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, sweet Italian sausage (casings removed), dried ground sage, oregano, and the remaining teaspoon each of salt and black pepper.
- Mix thoroughly with your hands until the mixture is cohesive but avoid overworking.
- Shape the mixture into six evenly sized patties, about 1 inch thick and 4.5 inches across. Make a slight indentation in the center to help burgers cook evenly.
Step 3: Grill the Burgers
- Season each patty with a light sprinkle of salt and pepper on both sides.
- Grill the patties over medium heat for 6–7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and charred at the edges. An internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) is ideal.
- About 1–2 minutes before the burgers are done, top each with a slice of provolone cheese. Close the grill lid or cover the pan to let the cheese melt.
Step 4: Assemble the Burgers
- Split and toast the semolina rolls. This gives a crisp exterior and keeps the bun sturdy under the generous toppings.
- Place each cheesy patty onto the bottom bun.
- Spoon over a generous portion of the pepper and onion mixture.
- Scatter torn fresh basil on top for aroma and freshness.
- Cap with the top bun, press lightly, and serve immediately.
What others are reading
Burger Building Tips
- Don’t Overmix: When combining meats and seasonings, mix gently until just combined for tender, juicy patties.
- Indents Matter: Making a shallow indentation in each patty helps them cook evenly and prevents puffing up in the center.
- Rest Before Serving: Let burgers rest a minute before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
- Grill or Stovetop: The pepper-onion mixture can be made on the grill in a cast-iron skillet or on the stovetop as preferred.
Serving Suggestions
These hearty burgers hit the spot as the centerpiece for any cookout or cozy weeknight dinner. Consider these pairings to complete your meal:
- Crispy oven fries or grilled corn on the cob
- Marinated tomato salad or a zesty Caesar salad
- Italian pickles or giardiniera on the side for tang
- Light, sparkling drinks like lemon seltzer or Italian sodas
Variations and Substitutions
- Spicy Italian Sausage: Use hot Italian sausage for a spicy kick.
- Cheese Choices: Try mozzarella, fontina, or even sharp provolone for different melts and flavors.
- Bun Swaps: Use hoagie rolls, ciabatta, or classic burger buns if semolina rolls aren’t available.
- Vegetables: Add sliced mushrooms or swap classic yellow onions for sweet Vidalia or red onions for a flavor twist.
- Herb Accent: Finish with a pinch of fresh parsley or oregano in place of basil.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make the pepper and onion mixture ahead of time?
A: Yes, the peppers, onions, garlic, and sauce topping can be prepared up to one day ahead. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator, then gently reheat before assembling your burgers.
Q: Is it possible to cook the burgers indoors?
A: Absolutely! Use a grill pan or heavy skillet over medium heat. The patties may need slightly longer to cook through, so check doneness as needed.
Q: What if I don’t have pizza sauce?
A: Substitute with marinara sauce, tomato sauce mixed with Italian herbs, or a thick tomato jam in a pinch.
Q: How do I keep the burgers juicy?
A: Avoid pressing down on the burgers while grilling, and rest them for a minute before serving. The sausage blend also helps retain moisture.
Q: Are these burgers freezer friendly?
A: Yes, you can freeze uncooked patties between wax paper. Thaw overnight in the fridge and proceed with grilling as usual.
Expert Tips for Perfect Sausage-and-Peppers Burgers
- Use quality sausage. Fresh, well-seasoned Italian sausage (hot or sweet) will make all the difference.
- Toasting the buns helps them hold up under saucy toppings and adds texture.
- Let the cheese fully melt before removing burgers from the grill for optimal gooeyness.
- Adjust seasonings to taste. A pinch of crushed red pepper or extra garlic can further boost flavor.
- Make sliders for parties by shaping smaller patties and using cocktail-sized rolls.
Burger Comparison Table: Sausage-and-Peppers vs Traditional Burger
| Sausage-and-Peppers Burger | Classic Beef Burger | |
|---|---|---|
| Meat Blend | Ground beef + Italian sausage | 100% ground beef |
| Toppings | Sautéed peppers, onions, pizza sauce, provolone, basil | Lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, American/cheddar cheese |
| Flavor Profile | Rich, herby, sweet-peppery, mild spice | Classic, savory, simple |
| Buns | Semolina rolls, toasted | Sesame seed or potato buns |
| Occasion | Special dinners, cookouts, Italian-themed nights | Everyday meals, cookouts, diners |
Conclusion: The Ultimate Italian-Inspired Burger Experience
The Sausage-and-Peppers Burger is more than just a sandwich—it’s a celebration of Italian-American comfort, bursting with layers of flavor and juicy, cheesy goodness in every bite. Whether grilled outdoors or seared in a skillet, these burgers promise to be the highlight of your next meal. Enjoy with friends, family, and plenty of napkins!
Try More Italian-Inspired Dishes
- Sausage and Rice Stuffed Peppers: Italian sausage, rice, and cheese in colorful bell peppers.
- Sheet Pan Sausage and Pepper Hoagies: Sausage and peppers baked and served in fluffy rolls.
- Italian Sausage Pizza: With pickled peppers for zing and extra flavor.
Explore endless ways to bring the bold flavors of Italy into your kitchen, starting with this unforgettable burger!
References
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vow8E95o21M
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a34876039/sausage-and-peppers-burgers-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g37078352/italian-sausage-recipes/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g40104401/burger-recipes/
Similar Articles
Read full bio of Sneha Tete
