There’s something magical about the combination of pizza and burgers that brings back fond memories of summer barbecues and family gatherings. Pizza burgers are the ultimate comfort food, merging the juicy goodness of a classic burger with the cheesy, savory flavors of pizza. Whether you’re looking for a quick solution for a busy weeknight or a dish to impress your friends at the next game day, these pizza burgers are sure to hit the spot. They’re easy to whip up and packed with flavor, making them a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Pizza Burgers
Pizza burgers are a game-changer for any home cook. They come together in just 25 minutes, making them perfect for those hectic weeknights. The blend of flavors is a crowd-pleaser, satisfying both burger lovers and pizza enthusiasts alike. Plus, you can customize them to suit your taste, ensuring everyone at the table leaves happy. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, these burgers are a win-win for any meal!
Ingredients for Pizza Burgers
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these mouthwatering pizza burgers. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ground beef: The star of the show! Choose a good quality beef for juicy patties.
Garlic powder: Adds a savory depth of flavor that complements the beef beautifully.
Onion powder: A must-have for that classic burger taste, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Italian seasoning: This blend of herbs brings the pizza essence right into your burger.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, these simple ingredients elevate the taste of your patties.
Hamburger buns: Opt for soft, fresh buns that can hold all the delicious toppings without falling apart.
Marinara sauce: The pizza twist! Use your favorite store-bought or homemade sauce for a burst of flavor.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: The gooey goodness that melts perfectly over the patties, making them irresistibly cheesy.
Sliced pepperoni: Adds a delightful crunch and a hint of spice, reminiscent of your favorite pizza.
Fresh basil leaves: Optional, but they add a fresh, aromatic touch that brightens up the dish.
For those looking to mix things up, consider using ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. You can also swap in spicy marinara sauce or add crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick. The exact quantities for each ingredient are available at the bottom of the article for easy printing!
How to Make Pizza Burgers
Creating pizza burgers is a straightforward process that guarantees a flavor explosion. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Step 1: Preheat Your Grill or Skillet
Start by preheating your grill or stovetop skillet over medium-high heat. This step is crucial for even cooking and helps develop that delicious, charred flavor. A hot surface ensures your patties sear nicely, locking in juices and flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the meat; this can lead to tough patties. You want a tender, juicy burger that melts in your mouth!
Step 3: Shape the Patties
Divide the beef mixture into four equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty, making them slightly larger than your buns. This allows for shrinkage during cooking. Use your thumb to create a small indentation in the center of each patty. This helps them cook evenly and prevents puffing up.
Step 4: Cook the Patties
Place the patties on your preheated grill or skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side. To check for doneness, use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 160°F. This ensures your burgers are safe to eat while remaining juicy.
Step 5: Add Toppings
During the last minute of cooking, spoon marinara sauce over each patty. Then, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese and top with sliced pepperoni. Cover the grill or skillet to melt the cheese perfectly. This step is where the magic happens, transforming your burgers into cheesy, pizza-inspired delights!
Step 6: Toast the Buns
While the patties are cooking, toast your hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster until golden brown. Toasting adds a delightful crunch and prevents the buns from getting soggy. Plus, it enhances the overall flavor of your pizza burgers.
Step 7: Assemble the Burgers
Now it’s time to put it all together! Place each cheesy patty on a toasted bun. For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle on more marinara sauce and add fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve immediately and watch everyone dig in with delight!
Tips for Success
Use a meat thermometer to ensure your patties reach 160°F for safe eating.
Don’t skip the indentation in the patties; it helps them cook evenly.
Experiment with different cheeses like provolone or cheddar for a unique twist.
Let the patties rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain juices.
For extra flavor, brush the buns with garlic butter before toasting.
Equipment Needed
Grill or Skillet: A grill gives that smoky flavor, but a skillet works just as well for indoor cooking.
Meat Thermometer: Essential for checking doneness; a simple cut can also do the trick.
Spatula: For flipping those juicy patties with ease.
Mixing Bowl: To combine your beef and seasonings.
Toaster: Perfect for toasting buns if you’re not using a grill.
Variations
Spicy Pizza Burgers: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the beef mixture or use spicy marinara sauce for a fiery kick.
Veggie Pizza Burgers: Substitute ground beef with a mix of black beans and quinoa for a hearty vegetarian option.
Cheesy Stuffed Burgers: Create a pocket in the patties and stuff them with mozzarella before cooking for an extra cheesy surprise.
BBQ Pizza Burgers: Swap marinara for your favorite BBQ sauce and top with cheddar cheese and crispy bacon for a smoky twist.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps to make these pizza burgers suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Serving Suggestions
Fries: Serve with crispy French fries or sweet potato fries for a classic combo.
Salad: A fresh garden salad adds a light touch to balance the richness of the burgers.
Drinks: Pair with a cold beer or a refreshing soda to complement the flavors.
Presentation: Garnish with extra basil leaves and serve on a wooden board for a rustic look.
FAQs about Pizza Burgers
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef for pizza burgers?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure it reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F.
What can I substitute for marinara sauce?
If you’re looking for a twist, try using pesto or BBQ sauce instead. Each option brings a unique flavor to your pizza burgers, making them even more exciting!
How do I store leftover pizza burgers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick meal.
Can I make pizza burgers ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the patties in advance and store them in the fridge. Just cook them fresh when you’re ready to enjoy!
What sides pair well with pizza burgers?
Pizza burgers go great with crispy fries, a fresh salad, or even onion rings. They’re versatile enough to match with your favorite sides!
Final Thoughts
Pizza burgers are more than just a meal; they’re an experience that brings people together. The joy of biting into a juicy patty, topped with gooey cheese and zesty marinara, is simply unbeatable. Whether you’re grilling in the backyard or cooking up a storm in the kitchen, these burgers are sure to impress. They’re perfect for family dinners, game nights, or casual get-togethers with friends. Plus, the ability to customize them means everyone can enjoy their own unique flavor combination. So, roll up your sleeves and dive into this cheesy flavor explosion—you won’t regret it!
Pizza Burgers are a delicious fusion of classic burgers and pizza flavors, featuring juicy beef patties topped with marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and pepperoni.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound ground beef
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
4 hamburger buns
1 cup marinara sauce
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup sliced pepperoni
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your grill or stovetop skillet over medium-high heat.
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each portion into a patty.
Cook the patties on the grill or skillet for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F.
During the last minute of cooking, spoon marinara sauce over each patty and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and pepperoni. Cover the grill or skillet to melt the cheese.
Toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster until golden brown.
Assemble the burgers by placing each cheesy patty on a bun. Top with additional marinara sauce and fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
For a spicy kick, add crushed red pepper flakes to the beef mixture or use spicy marinara sauce.
Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, adjusting cooking times as necessary for doneness.
