A Retro Fusion of Juicy Beef and Cheesy Pizza in One Baked Bite
These Old School Pizza Burgers are a nostalgic, cheesy twist on two comfort food classics: the burger and pizza. With a seasoned beef base, rich tomato sauce, melted cheese, and optional pepperoni or veggies—these handheld delights bring bold retro flavor with zero effort.
A throwback dish that’s easy to love and even easier to make!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- 🥩 Juicy Beef Base: Ground beef simmers in pizza sauce for deep, savory richness.
- 🧀 Cheesy Crown: Cheddar and mozzarella melt into every layer for stretchy satisfaction.
- 🍕 Pizza Party Vibe: Pepperoni, garlic, and Italian seasoning deliver that classic pizzeria flavor.
- ⏱️ Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes—ideal for weeknight cravings.
- 🎉 Great for Sharing: Perfect at family dinners, school events, or game-day snacks.
Ingredients (Makes 6 servings):
For the Pizza Burger Base:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or ground turkey for lighter version)
- 1 cup pizza sauce (or marinara for shortcut)
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning (or oregano + basil for depth)
- ½ tsp garlic powder (optional – or fresh garlic for extra punch)
- ½ cup diced pepperoni (or mushrooms for veggie option)
- ¼ cup chopped bell peppers or onions (optional – sautéed or raw)
- Salt and black pepper , to taste
For Assembly:
- 6 hamburger buns , split (or slider buns for mini bites)
- 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or dairy-free cheese for vegan option)
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella (optional – adds stretchy melt)
- Red pepper flakes (for heat lovers – optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat Oven & Prep Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) .
Line a baking sheet or oven-safe skillet with parchment paper or foil—set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a skillet over medium heat , cook ground beef until browned (6–8 minutes ), breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks.
Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 3: Simmer Like Pizza Sauce
Stir in:
- Pizza sauce
- Italian seasoning
- Garlic powder (if using)
- Optional add-ins: pepperoni, bell peppers, onions
Simmer for 2–3 minutes to meld flavors.
Season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Assemble on Buns
Place bun halves cut-side up on the baking sheet.
Spoon an even portion of the meat mixture onto each one.
Tip: For open-faced burgers, use just the bottom half of the bun.
Step 5: Top with Cheese & Bake
Sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella evenly over the top of each burger.
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes , or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Optionally, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for a crispier cheese crown.
Step 6: Serve Warm & Loaded
Let cool slightly before serving warm.
Top with red pepper flakes for heat or serve open-faced for a rustic touch.
Each bite brings together:
- Savory, spiced beef pockets
- Tangy, sweet tomato sauce layers
- Golden, stretchy cheese finish
- And that classic retro burger-pizza charm
Tips for Success:
- 🧈 Use Cold Hands: Helps shape and press beef without sticking.
- 🧁 Don’t Overcook: Keep beef juicy by baking just long enough to melt cheese.
- 🥟 Bun Hack: Toast buns slightly before adding meat for extra crunch.
- 🧑🍳 Layer Like a Pro: Spoon meat first, then cheese—ensures proper melting.
- ❄️ Make Ahead Magic: Cook and assemble ahead—bake fresh when ready to eat.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair with pickles, coleslaw, or crispy fries for full comfort mode.
- Great with beer, soda, or a cold glass of milk.
- Ideal for game day, lunch boxes, or midnight snack runs .
Nutritional Information (per burger, makes 6 – approximate):
(With regular beef and cheese – per serving)
- Calories: ~320 kcal
- Protein: ~15g
- Carbohydrates: ~25g
- Fat: ~18g
- Fiber: ~1g
- Sugar: ~5g
These Old School Pizza Burgers prove that retro doesn’t mean outdated—it means unforgettable. With their crispy bun, gooey cheese, and pizza-seasoned beef—they’re a must-bake for lovers of bold, comforting handhelds.
Additional Notes:
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free hamburger buns and toppings.
- Vegan Swap: Replace beef with lentils or plant-based crumbles, use vegan cheese and buns.
- Storage Tip: Store unbaked burgers in fridge for 12 hours—reheat gently after baking.
- Flavor Hack: Add a dollop of ricotta or Parmesan for Italian flair.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Double the batch and refrigerate for quick lunches or dinner leftovers.
Pro Tip: For extra crunch , add crushed crackers or breadcrumbs to the meat mixture.
Serving Idea: Garnish with fresh basil or olives for authentic pizza vibes.
History Fun: Pizza burgers emerged from 1980s American diners blending fast food and Italian-American flavors—a true fusion of convenience and nostalgia.
