These Pizza Burgers are the ultimate mashup of two beloved classics: pizza and burgers. Juicy beef patties seasoned with Italian flavors are topped with gooey mozzarella cheese, zesty pepperoni, and a rich pizza sauce, all nestled in a toasted hamburger bun. It’s a fun, creative twist that’s perfect for game day, family dinners, or anytime you’re craving something indulgent and delicious!
Prep Time
- 10 minutes
Cook Time
- 15 minutes
Total Time
- 25 minutes
Servings
- 4 burgers
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (80% lean / 20% fat)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 4 hamburger buns, split and toasted
- ½ cup pizza sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 16–24 slices pepperoni
Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Burger Patties
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until well combined—avoid overmixing to keep the burgers tender.
- Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape them into patties, slightly larger than the size of your buns (they’ll shrink as they cook). Set aside to rest while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2: Toast the Buns
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If using an oven broiler, preheat it as well.
- Arrange the hamburger buns, cut side up, on a baking sheet. Toast them under the broiler for 1–2 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove the top halves of the buns and set them aside.
Step 3: Grill the Patties
- Place the burger patties on the preheated grill or grill pan. Cook for 4–5 minutes per side , or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for medium doneness. Avoid pressing down on the patties to retain their juiciness.
Step 4: Warm the Sauce and Assemble the Base
- While the burgers are cooking, warm the pizza sauce in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Spread half of the warmed pizza sauce evenly over the bottom halves of the toasted buns. Top each with a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese and a few slices of pepperoni.
- Place the prepared buns under the broiler for 2–3 minutes , or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Build the Burgers
- Once the patties are cooked, place one patty on each cheese-topped bottom bun.
- Spoon the remaining pizza sauce over the patties, followed by more shredded mozzarella cheese and additional pepperoni slices.
- Return the assembled burgers to the broiler for 1–2 minutes , or until the cheese is fully melted and the pepperoni is slightly crispy.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
- Place the reserved top halves of the buns over the assembled burgers.
- Serve the pizza burgers immediately while hot, and enjoy the melty, cheesy goodness!
Pro Tips
- Customize Your Toppings: Add sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or diced onions to the patties for extra flavor.
- Cheese Options: Swap mozzarella for provolone or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different twist.
- Bun Upgrade: Use garlic butter buns or brush the toasted buns with melted garlic butter for added richness.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days . Reheat in the oven or microwave to restore the melty texture.
Nutrition Facts (Per Burger, based on 4 servings)
- Calories: ~450 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 6g
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Pizza Burgers bring together the best of both worlds: the savory juiciness of a burger and the cheesy, saucy goodness of pizza. The combination of Italian-seasoned beef, melty mozzarella, spicy pepperoni, and zesty pizza sauce creates a flavor explosion that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a fun dinner idea, these burgers are guaranteed to be a hit.
Ready to make this mouthwatering mashup? Grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a burger-pizza hybrid that’s cheesy, meaty, and totally irresistible—it’s comfort food at its finest!
