Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why these pizza burgers will become a favorite.
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Only a handful of ingredients. Simple and affordable.
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Ready in under 30 minutes.
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Juicy and cheesy. The perfect texture combination.
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Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves pizza and burgers.
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Budget-friendly. Ground beef and pizza toppings are inexpensive.
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Perfect for game days, parties, and family dinners.
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Great for leftovers.
Ingredients
For the Burgers
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1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon onion powder
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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4 hamburger buns, split
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1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for toasting buns)
Pizza Toppings
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1/2 cup pizza sauce
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1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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24 slices pepperoni
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1/4 cup sliced black olives
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1/4 cup diced green bell pepper
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1/4 cup diced red onion
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2 tablespoons sliced mushrooms (optional)
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1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven broiler or preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Make the Patties
Add the ground beef, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to a large bowl. Mix gently until just combined. Divide the beef mixture into four equal portions and shape each into a patty slightly larger than the hamburger buns.
Step 3: Cook the Patties
Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for 4 to 5 minutes per side, or until the centers reach 160°F (71°C).
Step 4: Add the Toppings
Transfer the cooked patties to a baking sheet. Spoon approximately 2 tablespoons of pizza sauce over each patty. Sprinkle with mozzarella. Top with pepperoni, black olives, green bell pepper, red onion, mushrooms, and Parmesan.
Step 5: Melt the Cheese
Broil the topped patties for 2 to 3 minutes, or bake for about 5 minutes. Remove when the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Step 6: Toast the Buns
While the cheese melts, lightly toast the split hamburger buns in a skillet with olive oil or in the oven until golden.
Step 7: Assemble and Serve
Place each topped patty on a bottom bun. Sprinkle with oregano and parsley if desired, then add the top bun. Serve immediately with fries, salad, potato wedges, or chips.
How to Serve Pizza Burgers
These loaded burgers are delicious on their own, but a few accompaniments make them even better.
With Fries: Classic burger pairing.
With a Salad: A simple salad cuts through the richness.
With Onion Rings: Crispy and delicious.
With Potato Wedges: A hearty side.
With Coleslaw: Cool and creamy.
Variations & Tips
Make Them with Turkey: Substitute ground turkey for the beef.
Make Them with Sausage: Use Italian sausage.
Make Them with Different Cheese: Use provolone or cheddar.
Make Them with Different Toppings: Add pineapple or jalapeños.
Make Them with Marinara: Use marinara instead of pizza sauce.
Make Them with Fresh Herbs: Add fresh basil.
Make Them Spicier: Add red pepper flakes.
Make Them Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free buns.
Make Them in a Skillet: Cook on the stovetop.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Do not overmix the beef. This keeps the patties tender.
Make the patties slightly larger than the buns. They shrink as they cook.
Do not overcook the patties. They should reach 160°F.
Toast the buns. This prevents sogginess.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different meat?
Yes. Ground turkey or chicken can be used.
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes. Provolone or cheddar can be used.
Can I use a different sauce?
Yes. Marinara can be used.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes. Reheat before serving.
Can I freeze these burgers?
Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why is my burger dry?
It was overcooked. Check at 160°F.
Can I add more toppings?
Yes. Add your favorite pizza toppings.
Can I use a different bun?
Yes. Any burger bun works.
Can I make these in a slow cooker?
This recipe is designed for the stovetop and oven.
The Beauty of Burger Mashups
There is something deeply satisfying about a burger that combines two favorite foods. It is the kind of meal that makes people happy. These pizza burgers are a celebration of all those things.
Keep ground beef in your freezer. Keep pizza sauce and toppings in your pantry and fridge. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings