Burger boosted by crispy pepperoni

Austin (KXAN) - Hamburgers aren't usually what you think of when you eat at an Italian restaurant.  But, Carino's Italian restaurant is putting a new twist on the familiar burger.  

Chef Chris Peitersen appeared on KXAN News at Noon to share the recipe for Carino's Crispy Pepperoni Burger.  The burger features a half-pound Black Angus patty on a soft artisan bun, topped with
mozzarella, parmesan, San Marzano tomatoes and fried pepperoni.

Ingredients:
Hamburger Patty, Black Angus Beef 80/20 1 each - 8 ounces
Salt and Pepper seasoned to taste
Hamburger Bun, 4 1/2” 1 each
Garlic Butter, Melted 1 Tbsp
Mozzarella, Sliced 2 slices
Parmesan, Shredded 1 Tbsp
San Marzano Tomatoes, Crushed 2 ounces
Pepperoni, Fried 1/4 cup
Parmesan, Shredded 1 tsp

Instructions:
1. Work area and utensils should be clean and sanitary.
2. Season the hamburger patty with salt and pepper on both sides. To a clean, hot
and oiled grill, add the burger patty and begin to grill. Cook to medium
doneness (135 to 145 Degrees F) or desired temperature while flipping several
times.
3. While burger is cooking, brush insides of hamburger bun with garlic butter and
toast cut sides on the grill.
4. After final flip of burger, top patty with mozzarella and parmesan to let melt.
5. Place bottom of bun (cut side up) on plate and top with patty (that already
includes melted mozzarella and parmesan), San Marzano tomatoes, fried
pepperoni and shredded parmesan.
6. Cover with top side of bun (slightly off center to show toppings on bun).
Preparation Note: To prepare the pepperoni, cut in half and fry for 20 seconds