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Pizza Burgers combine the comforting heft of a cheeseburger with the saucy, cheesy allure of in one handheld delight. Each bite bursts with melted mozzarella, zesty tomato sauce, and savory ground beef, delivering the best of both worlds. Inspired by Lunch Lady Pizza Burgers and Old School Pizza Burgers from cafeteria lore, this recipe elevates homemade burgers patties with pepperoni-style spices for an unforgettable twist. Whether you’re craving Cheeseburger Pizza Recipe vibes or a playful Pizza Sandwich Recipe for movie night, these Pizza Burgers hit the spot every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A mouthwatering mash-up of pizza flavors and classic burger satisfaction
- Built on juicy ground beef patties seasoned like your favorite pepperoni pizza
- Ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for spontaneous burger cravings
- Fully customizable: swap in Spam for Pizza Burgers With Spam fun
- Pairs beautifully with a side salad or Burger Ideas like sweet potato fries
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Main Dish |
| Cuisine: | Fusion Comfort |
| Prep Time: | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 15 minutes |
| Total Time: | 25 minutes |
| Dietary: | Optionally Gluten-Free |
| Serves: | 4 |
| Best Served: | Warm |
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef – juicy base for Pizza Burgers Ground Beef
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning – brings pizza herb flavor
- Salt & pepper – classic burger seasoning
- 4 burger buns – gluten-free if needed
- ½ cup pizza sauce – use your favorite brand or homemade
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella – essential Cheeseburger Pizza Recipe cheese
- 8 pepperoni slices – optional for Old School Pizza Burgers nostalgia
- 2 Tbsp olive oil – for toasting buns
- Spam slices – for Pizza Burgers With Spam variation (Spam)
- Fresh basil leaves – garnish for bright contrast
Pizza Burgers
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, mix ground beef with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Shape into 4 burger patties.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Brush burger buns with olive oil and toast until golden. Set aside.
- In the same skillet, cook the patties for 4–5 minutes per side or until desired doneness.
- Top each patty with pizza sauce and shredded mozzarella. Cover skillet and cook 1–2 minutes to melt cheese.
- Optional: Add pepperoni slices or fried Spam on top of the cheese.
- Place patties on bottom buns, garnish with basil, and top with bun lids.
- Serve warm with extra pizza sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
How to Make the Recipe
Crafting Pizza Burgers is as straightforward as building a classic burger, then layering on pizza magic.
Step 1: Season and Form Patties
In a bowl, combine ground beef, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Gently form into four patties.
Step 2: Preheat and Toast Buns
Heat a skillet over medium heat, brush buns with olive oil, and toast until golden; set aside.
Step 3: Cook Patties
In the same skillet, cook patties 4–5 minutes per side for medium, adjusting to preference.
Step 4: Add Sauce and Cheese
Top each patty with pizza sauce and mozzarella; cover pan to melt cheese, about 1–2 minutes.
Step 5: Incorporate Pepperoni or Spam
For pepperoni, layer slices atop cheese. For Spam variation, briefly fry slices and add on top.
Step 6: Assemble Burgers
Place sauced patties onto bottom buns, garnish with basil, then cap with top buns.
Step 7: Serve Immediately
Serve your Pizza Burgers hot, with extra pizza sauce on the side for dipping.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Gently handle patties for tender burgers—overworking toughens the meat.
- Use low-moisture mozzarella to avoid excess moisture on buns.
- Spread sauce sparingly to prevent soggy buns.
- For a Cheeseburger Pizza Recipe twist, add cheddar under the mozzarella.
- Let patties rest 2 minutes off-heat before assembly to retain juices.
How to Serve Pizza Burgers
Elevate your Pizza Burgers experience with these inspired serving ideas:
- Alongside a crisp Caesar salad for contrast
- With sweet potato fries and a sprinkle of Parmesan
- As part of a Burger Ideas platter with sliders and dips
- With a side of garlic knots for extra pizza vibes
- Added to a Pizza Sandwich Recipe board alongside cold cuts
- Paired with a tangy coleslaw for crunch
- Served on lettuce wraps for a lighter option
- Accompanied by roasted veggies drizzled in olive oil
- Topped with pickled jalapeños for heat
- Garnished with microgreens for a fresh finish
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
• Cool burgers completely
• Store patties and buns separately in airtight containers up to 3 days
• Keep sauce in a sealed jar
• Reheat patties in skillet to crisp edges
Freezing
• Freeze cooked patties flat in freezer bags
• Label with date, freeze up to 2 months
• Thaw in refrigerator overnight
• Toast buns fresh before serving
Reheating
• Warm patties in a skillet with lid to melt cheese
• Re-toast buns briefly under broiler
• Assemble just before serving for best texture
FAQs
What are the health benefits of ground beef and mozzarella?
Ground beef delivers high-quality protein and iron, while mozzarella provides calcium and protein for muscle and bone health (Burger basics).
Can I substitute beef with turkey or plant-based patties?
Yes—lean turkey or a quality plant-based burger both work well; adjust cooking time as needed (Pizza versatility).
How can I cut calories without losing flavor?
Use turkey or lean beef, opt for reduced-fat mozzarella, and load up on fresh basil and herbs instead of extra cheese (Healthy eating tips).
Can I meal prep Pizza Burgers?
Absolutely—cook and cool patties, store components separately, then assemble and reheat for quick lunches or dinners.
Final Thoughts
Combining the bold zest of pizza with the hearty comfort of burgers, Pizza Burgers are a playful yet satisfying dish perfect for family dinners or game-day feasts. With simple ingredients and easy assembly, you’ll turn out restaurant-worthy results every time. Experiment with your favorite toppings—Spam, pepperoni, or fresh veggies—to make this recipe uniquely yours. Gather friends, fire up your skillet, and enjoy a flavor mash-up that never fails to delight.
