Pizza Burgers are the ultimate mashup treat you didn’t know you needed: juicy, seasoned beef patties smothered in zesty pizza sauce and a melty layer of mozzarella, sandwiched in a toasted bun for that perfect bite. Each mouthful is like enjoying your favorite pizzeria and burger joint at the same time! Whether you’re feeding a hungry crew or just looking to jazz up dinner, this recipe brings together bold, crave-worthy flavors that satisfy even the pickiest eaters. With just a handful of pantry staples and a quick cook time, Pizza Burgers easily earn a spot in your regular dinner rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
If you love simple weeknight wonders, these Pizza Burgers deliver! Every ingredient counts here, layering savory, cheesy goodness with each bite. Here’s how each one ups the flavor and fun.
- Ground Beef (1 pound): The foundation for every juicy burger. Try for 80/20 for great flavor and moisture!
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Brightens and deepens all the beefy notes.
- Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds just the right amount of peppery kick.
- Garlic Powder (1/2 teaspoon): Sneaks in that extra savory magic—skip the chopping, keep the flavor!
- Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon): Instantly delivers that classic pizza herb vibe.
- Chopped Pepperoni (1/4 cup, optional): Dials up the pizza factor and gives a playful, salty bite.
- Pizza Sauce (1/2 cup): The heart of “pizza” in every burger—choose your favorite brand or homemade.
- Hamburger Buns (4): Holding it all together, a soft bun soaks up every saucy, cheesy bite.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup): Melts beautifully for that irresistible, stretchy cheese pull.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/4 cup): Punches up the umami and gives a salty, nutty finish.
- Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Brushed on the buns for bronzed, toasty edges.
- Red Pepper Flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Sprinkle on for a gentle, spicy tingle.
- Sliced Black Olives or Green Bell Peppers (optional): Classic pizzeria toppings that add extra flavor and color!
How to Make Pizza Burgers
Step 1: Mix and Shape the Burger Patties
In a large mixing bowl, combine your ground beef with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and the optional chopped pepperoni. Gently mix with your hands or a fork—overmixing can make the burgers tough, so stop as soon as everything is just combined. Divide the mixture into four equal portions and pat them into thick, even discs. This step really lays the foundation for those authentic Pizza Burgers flavor notes.
Step 2: Fire Up the Grill or Skillet
Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat. If using a skillet, a quick swish of olive oil helps prevent sticking and adds flavor. Cook each patty for about 4-5 minutes per side, flipping only once to keep those juices inside. Aim for a gorgeous char on the outside and your preferred doneness inside—medium is usually perfect for beef burgers.
Step 3: Sauce, Cheese, and Melt
For true Pizza Burgers style, spoon about two tablespoons of pizza sauce directly onto each patty during the last minute of cooking. Quickly sprinkle a generous handful of shredded mozzarella and a touch of grated Parmesan over the sauced burgers. Then cover the grill or pan—this little steam trap works wonders for melting cheese into oozy, pizza-blanket perfection.
Step 4: Toast the Buns
While the cheese is working its magic, brush your hamburger buns with a bit of olive oil. Toast them cut side down until golden and crisp—this step doesn’t just amp up the flavor, it keeps the buns from going soggy under all that cheesy, saucy goodness.
Step 5: Assemble and Top
To build your Pizza Burgers, set a cheesy patty onto each toasted bun bottom. Finish with a scatter of black olives and green bell peppers, or whatever your pizza-loving heart desires. Crown it with the bun top and serve hot. Get ready for instant smiles!
How to Serve Pizza Burgers
Garnishes
The fun is in the finish! Sprinkle extra Parmesan or red pepper flakes for a little zing, add a few basil leaves for freshness, or even drizzle a little extra pizza sauce over the top for major “pizza shop” vibes. With Pizza Burgers, a playful garnish makes every plate pop.
Side Dishes
Pizza Burgers are superstars on their own, but they love company. Pair them with crispy oven fries, a tangy Caesar salad, or, for serious comfort, a pile of garlic knots. Even a simple pile of pickles or roasted veggies creates a meal full of color and texture.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress at your next cookout, turn Pizza Burgers into slider-sized treats for easy party bites, or serve them open-faced and broil until extra bubbly on top. For family pizza night, put out bowls of toppings so everyone can customize their own burger, just like their favorite pizza.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Have a couple of Pizza Burgers left after dinner? Pop the patties with their cheesy toppings (minus the buns) into an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay delicious for up to 3 days—perfect for a quick lunch or snack.
Freezing
You can totally freeze cooked or uncooked Pizza Burgers patties. If freezing after cooking, let them cool fully, then layer with parchment paper and seal tightly. For uncooked patties, shape and wrap them well before freezing. Both ways, they’ll keep for about 2 months, making busy nights a breeze.
Reheating
For best results, reheat your Pizza Burgers patties in a covered skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water to keep them moist. Once warmed through, pile on a bun and add any fresh garnishes. If microwaving, cover the burger with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out—just 45 seconds or so usually does it.
FAQs
Can I make Pizza Burgers with ground turkey or chicken?
Absolutely! Both ground turkey and chicken are tasty, lean alternatives. Just be sure to season generously and watch your cook time, since leaner meat can dry out faster than beef. You’ll still get that delicious pizza flavor combo.
What pizza sauce works best?
Go with whatever pizza sauce you love most—store-bought or homemade. If you like things a little spicy or tangy, look for sauces with extra herbs or chili. Even a simple marinara does the trick in a pinch!
How can I prevent soggy buns?
The secret is toasting! A quick brush of olive oil and a minute on the grill or skillet makes all the difference. Toasted buns stand up to the saucy, cheesy filling without turning mushy.
Are Pizza Burgers kid-friendly?
Kids adore Pizza Burgers! They’re familiar, fun, and full of pizza flavor. You can make them even more kid-pleasing by swapping in their favorite toppings—think pepperoni, extra cheese, or a handful of sweet bell peppers.
Can I make these ahead for a party?
Yes! Shape your patties up to a day in advance and chill them covered. You can also pre-toast buns and chop all your toppings so the final assembly is a breeze. Pizza Burgers sliders are especially fun for a crowd.
Final Thoughts
Make Pizza Burgers once and you’ll wonder how you ever chose between pizza night and burger night. This recipe is unfussy, full of comfort, and always a big hit with family and friends. Go ahead—give Pizza Burgers a try and let them steal the show at your next meal!
Print
Pizza Burgers Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Pizza Burgers are a delicious mashup of two favorites – pizza and burgers. Juicy beef patties seasoned with Italian flavors, topped with gooey cheese and pizza sauce, all sandwiched between toasted buns. A fun and easy meal for the whole family!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup chopped pepperoni (optional)
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
- 4 hamburger buns
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Sliced black olives or green bell peppers for topping (optional)
For the patties:
For assembling:
Instructions
- Preheat the grill or skillet: Preheat a grill or skillet to medium-high heat.
- Mix the patty ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and chopped pepperoni if using. Form into 4 patties.
- Cook the patties: Grill or pan-cook the patties for 4-5 minutes per side. Top with pizza sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese to melt.
- Toast the buns: Lightly toast the hamburger buns with olive oil.
- Assemble: Place a patty on each bun, add optional toppings, and serve hot.
Notes
- You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Enhance the flavor with sautéed mushrooms or onions.
- Try making mini sliders for a party!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
