If you have ever dreamed of combining two all-time favorites into one incredible meal, this Pizza Burgers Recipe is going to blow your mind. Imagine the juicy, savory goodness of a burger infused with classic pizza flavors like marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, and a medley of mushrooms and onions, all nestled on a toasted English muffin. This unique, hearty dish is a total crowd-pleaser, perfect for dinner with family or impressing friends. The rich textures and bold flavors work in harmony to create something truly unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering just a handful of simple, fresh ingredients is all it takes to bring this Pizza Burgers Recipe to life. Each element plays a crucial role, enhancing the taste, texture, or color for the perfect bite every time.

1 lb. lean ground beef: The foundation for juicy, flavorful patties with a lean balance that keeps things tasty but not greasy.
½ lb. bulk or Italian sausage: Adds a spiced, savory dimension that pairs beautifully with the beef.
2 tablespoons butter: Elevates the richness while helping to sauté the veggies to tender perfection.
8 oz thickly sliced mushrooms: Brings an earthy, meaty texture and extra moisture to the meat mixture.
½ finely chopped yellow onion: Adds a sweet, aromatic base that melts into the meat and enhances the savoriness.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a punch of flavor that’s quintessentially Italian and totally irresistible.
½ teaspoon marjoram: This subtle herb lifts the sauce with a hint of floral and citrus notes, balancing the boldness perfectly.
3 cups marinara sauce: The heart of the dish, offering that classic pizza tang and a luscious saucy coating.
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning all components so the flavors shine.
6 split English muffins: Their crisp, toasted texture is an excellent base, holding all the saucy goodness without getting soggy.
2 oz diced pepperoni: A nod to traditional pizza tops, delivering spicy bursts in every bite.
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to create a bubbling, gooey crown that seals the deal.

How to Make Pizza Burgers Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat and adding 1 pound of lean ground beef along with half a pound of Italian sausage. Break the meat up with a spatula to ensure even cooking, allowing it to brown nicely. This initial step builds a rich, meaty base bursting with flavor, so don’t rush it.

Step 2: Add Vegetables and Butter

As the meat begins to brown halfway through cooking, introduce 2 tablespoons of butter, thickly sliced mushrooms, and finely chopped onion to the skillet. Keep stirring until the meat is fully browned, and the mushrooms and onions are soft and translucent. This combo adds sweetness and earthy depth, turning the mixture into a savory marvel.

Step 3: Incorporate Garlic and Marjoram

Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and half a teaspoon of marjoram. The garlic will quickly release its fragrant aroma, while the marjoram brings a subtle herbal brightness. Keep stirring for about a minute – this little step layers the flavors beautifully.

Step 4: Add Marinara Sauce

Pour 3 cups of rich marinara sauce into the skillet and mix all the ingredients thoroughly. Season the mixture with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Let it gently simmer on medium-low heat for 7 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The sauce melds with the savory meat and veggies, creating the signature pizza flavor.

Step 5: Toast the English Muffins

While the meat mixture simmers, split the English muffins and place them under the broiler until golden brown. Keep a close eye on them because they can burn quickly. The toasty, crunchy muffins act as the perfect flavorful vessels to hold your pizza-filled toppings.

Step 6: Assemble the Pizza Burgers Recipe

Once the English muffins are toasted, generously spoon the meat and marinara mixture evenly over each half. Scatter diced pepperoni on top to add that classic zesty kick reminiscent of your favorite pizza joint.

Step 7: Add Cheese and Broil

Finally, sprinkle 1 ½ cups of shredded mozzarella cheese across all muffin halves. Pop them under the broiler again for around 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese melts into a bubbly, golden layer. This final step transforms the dish into a gooey, mouthwatering delight that’s hard to resist.

How to Serve Pizza Burgers Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your Pizza Burgers Recipe, consider adding fresh garnishes like torn basil leaves or a sprinkle of dried oregano. They not only add vibrant green color but also impart fresh, aromatic notes that brighten up each bite.

Side Dishes

Because this dish is already a hearty meal, light and crisp sides like a mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or roasted vegetables with rosemary are perfect partners. They balance the richness while complementing the classic Italian flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your pizza burgers open-faced on a wooden board surrounded by mini bowls of extra marinara, chili flakes, or Parmesan cheese. This invites everyone to customize their burger, making the experience interactive and extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting, making your next meal just as delicious.

Freezing

You can freeze assembled pizza burgers before broiling by wrapping each one tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat the pizza burgers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 15 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain a crispy English muffin base and melty cheese texture.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese for this Pizza Burgers Recipe?

Absolutely! While mozzarella is classic, feel free to experiment with provolone, cheddar, or even a blend of Italian cheeses to suit your taste preferences. Just choose cheeses that melt well.

Is it possible to make these Pizza Burgers recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the ground beef and sausage with plant-based crumbles or a mix of finely chopped mushrooms and lentils for a rich, satisfying vegetarian option that still captures the essence of this recipe.

What can I use if I don’t have English muffins?

You can try using sturdy hamburger buns, ciabatta rolls, or even small baguette slices. Just make sure to toast them thoroughly so they hold up well with the saucy topping.

How spicy are these pizza burgers?

The spice level is mild with a subtle kick from the pepperoni and Italian sausage. If you want more heat, add crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture or top with spicy giardiniera.

Can I prepare the meat mixture in advance?

Definitely. You can cook the meat mixture a day ahead and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply reheat, assemble the burgers, and broil the cheese for a quick dinner fix.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Pizza Burgers Recipe enough if you’re craving a unique meal that combines the best of pizza and burgers. It’s easy to make, effortlessly tasty, and wonderfully satisfying. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a fast favorite in your recipe rotation.