If you’ve ever found yourself torn between ordering a savory burger or indulging in pizza, Pizza Burgers are the flavor-packed solution you didn’t know you needed. This irresistibly fun mashup layers juicy, seasoned beef patties with zesty pizza sauce, oozy mozzarella, and your favorite pizza toppings—all cuddled in a toasted bun. It’s a weeknight dinner favorite and a surefire hit for family, friends, or anyone who simply loves a good food mashup. Prepare for a cheesy, saucy adventure that’s both comforting and delightfully unexpected!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’re in for a treat with these incredibly simple, totally essential ingredients—each one plays its part to build the ultimate flavor, texture, and cheesy goodness right into your Pizza Burgers. No fancy stuff, just staples that always deliver something special.
- Ground beef (1 pound): Choose an 80/20 blend for the juiciest, most flavorful burgers that hold together well.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): A classic seasoning that brings out all the savory goodness from the beef.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds a subtle burst of heat and depth.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): Infuses that signature pizzeria aroma and herby flavor—basil, oregano, and friends!
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Delivers a mellow, savory undertone that ties everything together.
- Pizza sauce (1 cup): Tangy, bright, and packed with tomato flavor—make your own or choose your favorite jarred brand.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): The perfect melt—stretchy, gooey, and wonderfully creamy atop your burger.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (¼ cup): Salty and nutty, it adds that irresistible umami punch.
- Hamburger buns (4): Sturdy enough to hold all the saucy, cheesy glory inside.
- Butter (2 tablespoons, optional, for toasting buns): For golden, crispy buns that add an extra layer of indulgence.
- Optional toppings: Think like a pizzaiolo—pepperoni, sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, olives—mix and match to make it your own!
How to Make Pizza Burgers
Step 1: Season and Shape the Patties
Start by combining the ground beef with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder in a mixing bowl. Get right in there with your hands—mix until just blended so your patties are nicely seasoned but not overworked. Shape the mixture into four even patties, gently pressing them into rounds that are just a tad larger than your buns as they’ll shrink a bit while cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Burgers
Heat up your favorite skillet or fire up the grill over medium heat. Lay down those seasoned patties and let them cook for 4–5 minutes per side—listen for that irresistible sizzle! You’re looking for a beautiful golden-brown crust and fully cooked centers. As they finish, transfer them to a plate to rest briefly.
Step 3: Warm the Pizza Sauce
While your burgers are working their magic, gently warm the pizza sauce in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir occasionally until it’s heated through and fragrant. This simple step keeps your burgers from cooling down and sends that pizza aroma wafting through your kitchen.
Step 4: Add Sauce and Cheeses
Return the cooked patties to the skillet (or keep them on the grill), and ladle about 2 tablespoons of warm pizza sauce directly onto each one. Sprinkle a generous mound of shredded mozzarella and a little grated Parmesan over the top. Cover your pan (or close the grill lid) for 1–2 minutes so the cheese melts into that creamy, stretchy layer we all crave.
Step 5: Toast the Buns
If you’re as obsessed with buttery, golden buns as we are, melt a little butter in a skillet and toast the split hamburger buns, cut side down, until crisp and golden—just a minute or two! This step adds a delightful crunch and helps the buns soak up any extra pizza sauce without getting soggy.
Step 6: Assemble and Add Toppings
Now, the fun part! Place a cheesy, sauced-up patty on each bottom bun. Layer on your favorite pizza-inspired toppings like pepperoni, sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives. Finish with the top bun and serve these beauties up piping hot. Grab a few napkins—things are about to get deliciously messy!
How to Serve Pizza Burgers
Garnishes
Sprinkle some extra Parmesan or fresh chopped basil over the top for a pop of color and bold flavor. If you’re feeling fancy, a drizzle of olive oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a little pizzeria flair. Serve each burger with a bright toothpick holding an olive for that classic Italian touch!
Side Dishes
Pizza Burgers shine next to some crispy oven fries or a big, fresh salad tossed with Italian dressing. Garlic knots or homemade potato wedges are perfect for sopping up any runaway sauce, and a side of crunchy dill pickles brings a zippy contrast to all the rich, cheesy goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or family nights, slice the burgers into quarters for shareable sliders. Try serving open-faced for a “pizza melt” twist, or swap out the regular buns for toasty garlic bread. Arrange a DIY toppings bar so everyone can build their own dream Pizza Burgers—kids (and adults!) will love the interactive fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Pizza Burgers, allow them to cool to room temperature, then wrap each assembled burger tightly in foil or place in an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep any extra sauce or toppings separate to prevent sogginess.
Freezing
To freeze, skip the buns and extra toppings, and focus on the sauced, cheesy patties. Cool them completely, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
For the most satisfying leftovers, reheat the patties in a covered skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second bursts. Toast fresh buns, then assemble your reheated Pizza Burgers with any desired toppings for a just-made feel.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Both ground turkey and ground chicken make lighter but still delicious Pizza Burgers. Just watch the cook time as poultry cooks a bit faster, and don’t be shy with the seasonings to keep flavors bold.
What’s the best way to keep the buns from getting soggy?
Toasting the buns with butter adds both flavor and a protective layer that helps repel moisture. You can also assemble the burgers right before serving and keep extra sauce on the side for dipping instead of topping.
Can I bake these Pizza Burgers instead of using a skillet or grill?
You sure can! Arrange the seasoned patties on a lined baking sheet, bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15–18 minutes, then add sauce and cheese, baking for an additional 2–3 minutes until melty. Try the open-faced method for even more of that pizza vibes!
How can I make these vegetarian?
Replace the ground beef with your favorite plant-based burger patties or even a thick slice of roasted eggplant. Pile on the sauce, cheese, and classic pizza toppings, and you’ve got dreamy vegetarian Pizza Burgers everyone will enjoy.
Can I prep any part of the recipe in advance?
Definitely! You can mix and shape the burger patties in advance—just cover and refrigerate until ready to cook. Pre-slice your veggie toppings and have sauces ready to go for super speedy assembly during busy weeknights.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving comfort food that packs a playful punch, give these Pizza Burgers a try—you won’t regret sinking your teeth into this family favorite! Whether you keep things classic or load them up with goodies, this is one recipe that guarantees smiles around the table.
Print
Pizza Burgers Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 burgers
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop, Grilling
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Pizza Burgers are a delightful fusion of two classic favorites – pizza and burgers. Juicy beef patties seasoned with Italian herbs and spices, smothered in pizza sauce, and topped with gooey melted cheese, all sandwiched between buttery buns. Customize with your favorite pizza toppings for a fun and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
For the Burger Patties:
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
For Assembly:
- 1 cup pizza sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 hamburger buns
- 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for toasting buns)
- Optional toppings: sliced pepperoni, sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives
Instructions
- Preheat the Skillet or Grill: Heat a skillet or grill over medium heat.
- Prepare the Patties: Mix ground beef with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Shape into 4 patties.
- Cook the Patties: Cook patties for about 4–5 minutes per side until fully cooked.
- Assemble the Burgers: Spoon pizza sauce over each patty, top with mozzarella and Parmesan. Melt cheese for 1–2 minutes. Toast buns if desired.
- Finalize and Serve: Place patties on bottom buns, add optional toppings, and cover with top buns. Serve hot.
Notes
- For a fun twist, consider using garlic bread as buns or bake open-faced for a pizza melt-style sandwich.
- Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a lighter alternative.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
