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Pizza Burger Recipe

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4.7 from 149 reviews

Pizza Burgers combine the juicy goodness of classic beef burgers with the flavors of a traditional pizza. Ground beef patties are seasoned with Italian herbs and spices, then topped with marinara sauce, melted mozzarella, pepperoni, and optional toppings like mushrooms and bell peppers. These delicious burgers are cooked on the stovetop and finished in the oven or broiler for perfectly melted cheese. Ideal for a fun family meal or game day snack.

Ingredients

Burger Patties

  • 2 lbs (900g) lean ground beef (80/20 or 90/10)
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic powder (or 2 cloves minced fresh garlic)
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • Optional: 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese

Buns and Toppings

  • 6-8 burger buns (brioche or potato recommended)
  • 1.5 cups (350g) pizza or marinara sauce
  • 8 oz (225g) sliced mozzarella cheese (or provolone blend)
  • 4 oz (110g) thin-sliced beef pepperoni
  • Optional toppings: 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
  • 1/4 cup diced green bell pepper
  • 1/4 cup diced onion
  • 1/4 cup sliced black olives
  • Sliced jalapeños

Cooking

  • 2 tbsp olive or vegetable oil (for cooking)

Garnish

  • Optional: Fresh basil leaves
  • Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare Patties: In a large bowl, gently mix the ground beef with Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and optional Parmesan cheese. Be careful not to overmix to keep the patties tender. Form 6-8 patties, pressing a shallow dimple in the center of each to help them cook evenly. Chill the patties for 15-30 minutes if time allows to help them hold shape during cooking.
  2. Prepare Toppings and Buns: If using optional toppings like mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions, slice or dice them as directed and sauté lightly in a pan to soften and enhance flavor. Have the thin-sliced beef pepperoni and mozzarella cheese ready. Lightly toast the bun halves for 1-2 minutes either in a dry skillet or under the broiler to prevent sogginess when assembled.
  3. Cook Patties: Heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive or vegetable oil in a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add the patties and cook them for 3-5 minutes on each side until a golden-brown crust forms and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C), ensuring they are fully cooked. Avoid pressing down on the patties to retain juices. Once cooked, remove the patties from the skillet and set aside.
  4. Assemble Burgers: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) or prepare the broiler. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the toasted bottom halves of the buns on the sheet. Layer each with a cooked beef patty, 2-3 tablespoons of pizza or marinara sauce, 1-2 slices of mozzarella cheese, beef pepperoni, and any other optional sautéed or fresh toppings you like.
  5. Melt Cheese: To melt the mozzarella cheese, choose one method: Oven—bake the assembled burgers for 5-8 minutes at 375°F (190°C) until cheese is bubbly; Broiler—broil for 1-3 minutes watching closely to prevent burning; Stovetop—place assembled burgers in a skillet with 1 tablespoon of water, cover tightly, and steam over low heat for 3-5 minutes until cheese melts.
  6. Finish and Serve: Once the cheese has melted perfectly, remove the burgers from heat. Top each with the toasted top bun halves. Garnish with optional fresh basil leaves and an extra sprinkling of grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately with favorite sides such as fries or a crisp salad.

Notes

  • Do not overmix the ground beef to keep the patties tender and juicy.
  • Chilling patties before cooking helps them hold together better on the griddle.
  • Lightly toasting buns prevents sogginess from the sauce and toppings.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure patties reach a safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
  • Sauté optional vegetable toppings beforehand to enhance their flavor and texture.
  • Watch cheese carefully under the broiler to avoid burning.
  • Customize toppings based on preference for spiciness or vegetable additions.