Imagine all the gooey, cheesy goodness of your favorite pizza combined with the juicy, hearty satisfaction of a burger—welcome to the marvelous world of Pizza Burgers! This recipe brings the spirit of a classic pizzeria right into your kitchen, but with all the fuss-free comfort of a weeknight grill-up. Every bite features a savory burger patty seasoned with Italian herbs, melty mozzarella, a generous spoonful of vibrant pizza sauce, and the optional punch of pepperoni. Whether you’re out to shake up your usual burger night or looking for a totally crowd-pleasing meal, Pizza Burgers promise delicious fun you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Pizza Burgers lies in its simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a vital role in building that iconic flavor. From the herbed ground beef to the ooey-gooey cheese and saucy toppings, every component brings its own unique joy to the table.
- 1 lb ground beef: Choose 80/20 for maximum juiciness—it’s the backbone of your burger.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out the depth of flavor in your burger patties.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and balances the richness of the beef.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Delivers savory undertones that echo classic pizza flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: A must-have herb that ties everything back to the pizzeria vibe.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Lends a touch of warm sweetness and aromatic freshness.
- 1 cup pizza sauce: The star sauce—go with your favorite brand, or make it homemade if you’d like.
- 1/2 cup chopped pepperoni (optional): For those who crave that unmistakable, spicy bite in every mouthful.
- 4 hamburger buns: Look for soft buns sturdy enough to soak up sauce and cheese without falling apart.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly for that irresistible cheese pull.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Finishes the burger with a nutty, salty flourish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter (for toasting buns): A little brushing gives the buns a beautiful golden crunch.
How to Make Pizza Burgers
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl and combining your ground beef with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, oregano, and basil. Use your hands to mix gently, just until everything is incorporated. Over-mixing can make the burgers dense, so aim for a light touch—think of it as giving your future Pizza Burgers a head start on tenderness and flavor!
Step 2: Form and Cook the Patties
Divide the seasoned beef mixture into four equal parts and shape each one into a patty that’s slightly wider than your hamburger buns (they’ll shrink a bit as they cook). Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the patties and let them cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side, until they’re beautifully caramelized and cooked through. You’re looking for a nice crust on the outside while keeping them juicy on the inside.
Step 3: Warm the Pizza Sauce
While your burgers sizzle, pour the pizza sauce into a small saucepan and set it over low heat. If you’re feeling extra generous, mix in the chopped pepperoni now. Stir occasionally, allowing the sauce to bubble ever so slightly and the flavors to blend. Warm sauce means less waiting for that glorious first bite!
Step 4: Toast the Buns
Brush the cut sides of your hamburger buns with olive oil or melted butter—this adds both flavor and crunch. Toast them in a skillet or under the broiler until golden brown. Don’t skip this step: that crisp outer texture is what keeps your Pizza Burgers from turning soggy once the saucy, cheesy goodness lands on top.
Step 5: Assemble and Broil
To assemble, arrange the toasted bun bottoms on a tray. Place the cooked patties on top, then spoon warm pizza sauce generously over each one. Sprinkle with mozzarella and a shower of Parmesan. Give your Pizza Burgers their grand finale by sliding them under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes—just long enough for the cheese to melt into gorgeous, bubbling perfection. Finally, crown each with the top bun and serve while they’re piping hot!
How to Serve Pizza Burgers
Pizza Burgers Garnishes
Bring your Pizza Burgers to the next level by topping each one with fresh basil, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of garlic-infused olive oil. If you want to play up the Italian vibes, add a handful of shaved Parmesan or a scatter of chopped fresh parsley for a bit of color and brightness!
Side Dishes
These burgers play well with all kinds of classic sides—think crispy baked fries, a simple green salad tossed with Italian dressing, or roasted vegetables for extra color and crunch. Garlic knots or cheesy breadsticks make a fun, pizza-inspired pairing as well. If you’re in the mood for dipping, a ramekin of extra warmed pizza sauce is always welcome.
Creative Ways to Present
Want some fun serving vibes? Try making a Pizza Burgers bar with bowls of extra toppings like sautéed mushrooms, olives, or bell peppers, so everyone can build their own dream burger. For parties, cut the finished burgers into quarters and skewer them with toothpicks for appetizer-style bites that disappear fast! Or turn the burgers into sliders for a perfect game day or kids’ party feast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you end up with leftover Pizza Burgers, let them cool to room temperature before storing. Wrap each burger individually in foil or place in an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making for a fantastic quick lunch or midnight snack.
Freezing
To freeze, allow the cooked patties (and even the assembled, sauced, and cheesed burgers if you like) to cool completely. Wrap each tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or use freezer-safe containers. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to 2 months—just be sure to label them so you remember you’ve got Pizza Burgers ready to go!
Reheating
To reheat, unwrap the burger and place it on a baking sheet. Warm in a 350°F oven until heated through and the cheese is melty, about 10–15 minutes. For a quicker fix, microwave in 30-second bursts, though the oven will help restore that toasty bun and bubbly cheese top. If reheating from frozen, let the burgers thaw overnight in the fridge first for best results.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for Pizza Burgers?
Absolutely! Swap in ground turkey or chicken if you’re looking for a lighter version. Just keep in mind that leaner meats can dry out more easily, so add a splash of olive oil to your mixture and watch the cooking time closely to keep your burgers juicy and flavorful.
What pizza sauce works best for these burgers?
Any pizza sauce you love will work here! Whether you grab your favorite jarred brand or whip up a quick homemade version, the main thing is to choose a sauce with bold seasoning and no excess water, so your buns don’t get soggy. If you like it spicy, try stirring in some crushed red pepper flakes.
How do I keep the cheese from sliding off under the broiler?
For best results, press the shredded mozzarella lightly into the warm sauce on each burger patty before sprinkling with Parmesan. Broil just until the cheese is melted and bubbling—this helps it adhere. To prevent burning, keep a close eye and broil on the middle rack instead of right under the flame.
Can I make Pizza Burgers ahead of time for a party?
Definitely! You can prep and cook the patties a day ahead, and even toast the buns in advance. When it’s party time, just reheat the patties, add sauce and cheese, and give them a quick broil so you’ll have hot, fresh-tasting burgers without last-minute stress.
Are there any vegetarian options for Pizza Burgers?
Try swapping the beef patties for grilled portobello mushrooms, veggie burger patties, or even thick slices of eggplant for a plant-forward twist. Load them up with the same sauce and cheese, and you’ll have a meatless Pizza Burgers experience that everyone can enjoy.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re craving pure comfort food or looking for a way to jazz up your burger routine, Pizza Burgers are ridiculously fun to make and even more fun to eat. Don’t be surprised if they become a regular request in your house—there’s just something about that combination of saucy, cheesy, pepperoni-topped joy that’s completely irresistible. Give these a try soon, and let the Pizza Burgers magic light up your dinner table!
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Pizza Burgers Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 burgers
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Pizza Burgers are a delicious mashup of two classic favorites, combining the flavors of pizza with the convenience of a burger. These cheesy burgers are loaded with savory seasonings, gooey melted cheese, and zesty pizza sauce for a fun twist on a traditional burger.
Ingredients
For the burgers:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
For assembly:
- 1 cup pizza sauce
- 1/2 cup chopped pepperoni (optional)
- 4 hamburger buns
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter (for toasting buns)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare: Preheat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Mix ground beef with seasonings and form into patties. Cook patties for 4–5 minutes per side.
- Heat sauce: Warm pizza sauce in a saucepan, adding pepperoni if desired.
- Toast buns: Brush buns with oil or butter and toast until golden.
- Assemble: Place cooked patties on buns, top with sauce, cheeses, and broil until cheese is melted.
- Serve: Top with remaining bun halves and serve hot.
Notes
- Customize with sautéed mushrooms, olives, or bell peppers.
- For a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper flakes to the pizza sauce.
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