Pizza Burgers Recipe

Pizza Burgers

If you’ve ever found yourself torn between a juicy burger and a cheesy pizza, you’re not alone. The good news? You don’t have to choose. Pizza Burgers combine the best of both worlds into one delicious, mouthwatering bite. Think of a perfectly seasoned patty, topped with rich marinara sauce, gooey melted cheese, and classic pizza toppings—all packed into a burger bun. Sounds irresistible, right?

This recipe brings together the satisfying bite of a burger and the comforting flavors of a pizza. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a game night, or just a treat for yourself, these pizza&burger hybrids are a surefire hit.

Why You’ll Love Pizza Burgers

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about why this dish deserves a spot in your recipe collection.

  • The Best of Both Worlds – Can’t decide between pizza and a burger? Now you don’t have to.
  • Customizable – Just like pizza, you can personalize your toppings.
  • Kid-Friendly – Perfect for picky eaters who love cheesy goodness.
  • Quick and Easy – Great for busy weeknights when you want a satisfying meal without the hassle.
  • Ideal for Parties – Serve them as sliders or full-sized burgers, and watch them disappear.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make the ultimate pizza burgers, you’ll need a mix of classic burger and pizza ingredients.

For the Patties:

  • 1 lb ground beef (or plant-based substitute for vegetarians)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds a rich umami flavor)

For the Pizza Topping:

  • 1 cup marinara sauce or pizza sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup pepperoni slices (optional)
  • 1/4 cup black olives, sliced (optional)
  • 1/4 cup sautéed mushrooms (optional)
  • 1/4 cup diced bell peppers
  • Fresh basil or oregano for garnish

For the Buns:

  • 4 burger buns (brioche works great!)
  • 2 tbsp melted butter
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Patties

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), Worcestershire sauce, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix everything together with your hands, but don’t overwork the meat—this helps keep the patties juicy.

Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into burger patties. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb. This keeps them from puffing up while cooking.

2. Cook the Patties

Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes per side or until they reach your desired doneness. If using a plant-based patty, follow the cooking instructions on the package.

3. Prepare the Pizza Topping

While the patties are cooking, heat the marinara sauce in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

4. Toast the Buns

Brush the burger buns with melted butter mixed with garlic powder and dried oregano. Toast them in a skillet or oven until golden brown. This step adds an extra layer of flavor and prevents the buns from getting soggy.

5. Assemble the Pizza Burgers

Place a cooked patty on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Spoon a generous amount of warm marinara sauce over each patty. Sprinkle a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. Add your favorite toppings like pepperoni, olives, mushrooms, or bell peppers.

6. Melt the Cheese

To get that gooey, melted pizza cheese effect, place the assembled burgers under a broiler for 1-2 minutes or until the cheese is bubbling. If you don’t have a broiler, cover the pan with a lid for a minute to help the cheese melt.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with fresh basil or oregano and top with the other half of the bun. Serve hot with a side of crispy fries, a fresh salad, or even garlic bread for the ultimate pizza experience.

Variations and Customizations

One of the best things about pizza burgers is how easy they are to customize. Here are a few ideas to switch things up:

  • Hawaiian Pizza Burger – Add grilled pineapple and ham.
  • BBQ Chicken Pizza Burger – Use shredded BBQ chicken instead of a beef patty, and swap marinara for BBQ sauce.
  • Veggie Pizza Burger – Use a black bean or portobello mushroom patty and load up on veggies.
  • Meat Lovers Pizza Burger – Add crumbled sausage and extra pepperoni.
  • Margherita Pizza Burger – Keep it simple with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.

What to Serve with Pizza Burgers?

Since these pizza&burger hybrids already pack a ton of flavor, keep the sides simple. Here are a few ideas:

  • Garlic parmesan fries
  • Caesar salad
  • Mozzarella sticks
  • Roasted vegetables
  • Onion rings
  • A side of extra marinara for dipping

Final Thoughts

Pizza Burgers are a fun, flavorful twist on two of the world’s most beloved foods. They’re easy to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a die-hard pizza fan, a burger enthusiast, or someone who just loves good food, this recipe is a must-try.

FAQs About Pizza Burgers

1. Can I make pizza burgers in advance?

Yes! You can prep the patties and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, cook the patties and assemble the burgers fresh.

2. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works great and offers a lighter alternative. Just add a little extra seasoning since they have milder flavors.

3. What’s the best cheese for pizza burgers?

Mozzarella is a classic choice, but you can experiment with provolone, cheddar, or even gouda for a unique twist.

4. How do I prevent my buns from getting soggy?

Toasting the buns helps, but also be mindful not to overload them with too much sauce. Spreading a thin layer of cheese on the bottom bun before adding the patty can act as a barrier against moisture.

5. Can I make these burgers without a grill?

Yes! A stovetop skillet or griddle works just as well. You can even bake the patties at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes.

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