If you have been searching for a fun and irresistible way to combine two all-time favorites, you have to try this Pizza Burgers Recipe. Juicy, flavorful burger patties perfectly seasoned with Italian herbs and topped with melty mozzarella and tangy pizza sauce make every bite a celebration. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a weekend treat, these pizza-inspired burgers bring the best of both worlds right to your plate, satisfying those pizza cravings in a unique and delicious way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Pizza Burgers Recipe lies in a handful of simple, classic ingredients that each add their own punch of flavor, texture, and appeal. From the savory beef to the cheesy toppings and that unmistakable pizza sauce, every component plays a crucial role in creating an unforgettable meal.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty base for juicy, flavorful patties with just the right texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the rich flavors of the beef.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick that complements the Italian spices.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the patties with aromatic warmth, reminiscent of classic pizza crust.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: This blend of herbs gives the burgers their signature pizza-inspired taste.
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce (plus extra for topping): The zesty, tangy heart of the recipe that brings true pizza flavor.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts to gooey perfection, delivering that cheesy pizza feeling.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, sharp contrast that enhances the richness.
- 4 hamburger buns or sandwich rolls: Lightly toasted to add crunch and hold all the goodness together.
- 1/4 cup chopped pepperoni (optional): A savory topping for those who love classic pizza pepperoni flavor.
- Butter for toasting buns: Creates a golden, crispy exterior that makes every bite extra satisfying.
How to Make Pizza Burgers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Patties
Begin by combining the ground beef with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning in a medium bowl. Mixing just enough to combine ensures your patties stay tender and juicy while packed with flavor. Then divide and shape the mixture into four evenly sized patties—this helps them cook uniformly.
Step 2: Cook the Patties
Heat a skillet or grill to medium heat and place the patties onto the surface. Let them cook for about 4 to 5 minutes per side, allowing a beautiful crust to form while the inside cooks through. This is the moment where the irresistible burger flavor is locked in.
Step 3: Add Pizza Sauce and Cheese
While the burgers cook, mix your pizza sauce with the optional chopped pepperoni for extra flavor. Once the patties are nearly done, reduce the heat to low and spoon around 2 tablespoons of the pizza sauce mixture on each patty. Immediately top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese, then cover the skillet or close the grill lid for 1 to 2 minutes to melt the cheese perfectly.
Step 4: Toast the Buns
Meanwhile, spread a thin layer of butter on the hamburger buns and toast them lightly in a separate pan or on the grill until golden brown. This step is key for a crispy, buttery bun that supports all the toppings without getting soggy.
Step 5: Assemble Your Pizza Burgers
Place each cheesy, saucy patty on the toasted bottom bun. Add extra pizza sauce if desired for an even saucier bite, then crown your creation with the top bun. Serve immediately while everything is warm and melty!
How to Serve Pizza Burgers Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your Pizza Burgers Recipe by adding fresh garnishes like chopped fresh basil or oregano for a pop of color and herbal freshness. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add a little spicy kick that pairs beautifully with the rich cheese and savory beef.
Side Dishes
Serve these burgers with a crisp side salad or some classic fries to balance out the richness. Roasted vegetables or garlic parmesan potato wedges also complement the Italian flavors brilliantly, making the whole meal satisfying and well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, turn your Pizza Burgers Recipe into a slider party by using mini buns and letting everyone customize their own toppings. Another idea is serving the patties open-faced on artisan bread with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a gourmet touch that will amaze your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover pizza burgers, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the patties moist and the buns from drying out, allowing you to enjoy the flavors just as much the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked burger patties without the buns for up to 2 months. Wrap each patty tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat your pizza burgers gently in a skillet over low heat, covered, to melt the cheese again without drying them out. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts with a damp paper towel to keep the buns soft. Avoid overheating to preserve that fresh-from-the-grill taste.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken work well if you prefer a leaner burger. Just be sure to watch the cooking time closely since these meats cook faster and can dry out if left too long.
What other toppings can I add to the pizza burgers?
Feel free to get creative! Olives, mushrooms, green peppers, or even caramelized onions make excellent additions. You can also experiment with different cheeses like provolone or fontina for variety.
Is it possible to make these burgers gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap out regular hamburger buns for gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps. This keeps the dish accessible to those with gluten sensitivities without sacrificing flavor.
Can I prepare these pizza burgers on a grill instead of a skillet?
Definitely! Grilling adds a wonderful smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the pizza toppings. Just be sure to cover the grill when melting the cheese to keep the heat contained.
How spicy are these pizza burgers?
These pizza burgers are mild by default, with the Italian seasoning lending flavor without much heat. You can easily add red pepper flakes or spicy pepperoni to amp up the spice level if you like.
Final Thoughts
This Pizza Burgers Recipe is such a fantastic way to bring together the best of both worlds in one delicious bite. Easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and sure to impress anyone at your table, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep coming back to. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite dinner!
Print
Pizza Burgers Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 pizza burgers
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Pizza Burgers combine the best of two classic favorites—juicy seasoned beef patties topped with rich pizza sauce, melted mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, all sandwiched in toasted buns. This easy skillet or grill recipe brings a fun twist to burgers, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
For the Patties
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For Topping & Assembly
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce (plus extra for topping)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped pepperoni (optional)
- 4 hamburger buns or sandwich rolls
- Butter for toasting buns
Instructions
- Prepare the Patties: In a medium bowl, combine ground beef with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix gently until just combined to avoid tough patties. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and form each into a patty.
- Cook the Patties: Heat a skillet or preheat a grill to medium heat. Place patties on the surface and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until fully cooked through and nicely browned on the outside.
- Add Pizza Toppings: While the patties cook, mix the pizza sauce with chopped pepperoni if using. Once patties are cooked, reduce heat to low. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of pizza sauce mixture onto each patty, then sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly on top. Cover the skillet with a lid or close the grill lid to allow cheese to melt, about 1–2 minutes.
- Toast the Buns: Lightly butter the hamburger buns and toast them in a separate pan or on the grill until golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Assemble the Burgers: Place each patty on the bottom bun, add extra pizza sauce if desired, and top with the toasted bun. Serve immediately while hot for best flavor.
Notes
- Customize with your favorite pizza toppings such as olives, mushrooms, or green peppers.
- Try using ground turkey or plant-based patties for a lighter or vegetarian option.
- These burgers pair perfectly with a fresh side salad or crispy fries.
