Pizza Burgers bring together the best of both worlds: the cheesy, saucy goodness of pizza and the juicy satisfaction of a burger. These burgers are easy to make and full of Italian flavors that everyone will love! Whether for a family dinner, game night, or cookout, these pizza burgers are sure to be a hit.
Why You’ll Love These Pizza Burgers
- Flavor Explosion: Classic pizza toppings and flavors packed into a juicy burger.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes for a speedy weeknight dinner.
- Customizable: Add your favorite pizza toppings for a personal twist!
Ingredients for Pizza Burgers
- 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce (plus extra for serving)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 burger buns
- 16 slices pepperoni (optional, for extra pizza flavor)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl
- Large skillet or grill pan
- Spatula
- Baking sheet (if toasting buns)
How to Make Pizza Burgers
- Prepare the Burger Patties
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef (or turkey), salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix gently to combine, being careful not to overwork the meat.
- Divide the meat mixture into four equal parts and shape into burger patties.
- Cook the Burgers
- Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the burger patties.
- Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the burgers reach your preferred doneness.
- Add the Pizza Toppings
- Once the burgers are nearly cooked, spoon about 2 tablespoons of pizza sauce on top of each patty.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of mozzarella cheese over the sauce. If using pepperoni, add a few slices on top of the cheese for each burger.
- Cover the skillet with a lid or tent with foil for 1-2 minutes to melt the cheese.
- Toast the Buns
- While the cheese melts, lightly toast the burger buns on a baking sheet in a 350°F (175°C) oven for a few minutes, or toast them on the grill if using one.
- Assemble the Pizza Burgers
- Place each cheesy, saucy burger patty on the bottom half of a toasted bun.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, then add the top bun to complete the burger.
Serving Suggestions
These pizza burgers pair wonderfully with a side of garlic fries, a Caesar salad, or some crispy onion rings. Serve with extra pizza sauce on the side for dipping!
Tips for the Best Pizza Burgers
- Don’t Overmix the Meat: Mix the meat and seasonings gently for a juicy, tender burger.
- Use Good-Quality Pizza Sauce: For the best flavor, choose a pizza sauce you enjoy or make a quick homemade version with tomatoes, garlic, and Italian herbs.
- Add Your Favorite Pizza Toppings: Try sliced mushrooms, olives, or green peppers if you want to make it a true “supreme” pizza burger.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover burger patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I make these burgers on the grill?
A: Absolutely! Grill the patties over medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes per side. Top with sauce and cheese, then close the lid briefly to melt the cheese.
Q2: Can I use a different cheese besides mozzarella?
A: Yes! Provolone, cheddar, or even a blend of Italian cheeses would be delicious.
Q3: Can I make these burgers with a plant-based meat substitute?
A: Yes! Plant-based patties work well and will still give you all the pizza flavor.
These Pizza Burgers are everything you love about pizza in a burger form! With melted mozzarella, zesty pizza sauce, and a juicy patty, they’re an exciting and flavorful twist on the classic burger. Perfect for any pizza lover, these burgers are sure to satisfy!
