Pizza Burgers Recipe

If you’ve ever found yourself torn between a juicy burger and a cheesy slice of pizza, Pizza Burgers are your delicious solution! This fun mash-up layers all the saucy, bubbling flavors of pizza on top of a classic burger, creating a weeknight dinner that’s both nostalgic and a total crowd-pleaser.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Pulling together the ultimate Pizza Burgers couldn’t be simpler—the magic really happens in how these familiar ingredients team up! Each addition is essential, lending flavor, texture, and that unmistakable pizzeria aroma to every bite.

• Ground beef (1-1/2 pounds): The heart and soul of the burger, adding richness and satisfying meaty flavor.
• Chopped onion (1/4 cup): Sautéed with the beef, onion brings a subtle sweetness and mouthwatering aroma.
• Pizza sauce (1 can, 15 ounces): Infuses the whole mixture with tangy tomato flavor and classic pizza vibes.
• Mushroom stems and pieces (1 can, 4 ounces, drained): Adds earthy depth and juicy bites—canned mushrooms are perfect for convenience.
• Sugar (1 tablespoon): Just a hint, but it rounds out the acidity of the tomato sauce for a mellow, balanced finish.
• Dried oregano (1/2 teaspoon): Instantly evokes that herby, “pizza shop” flavor everyone loves.
• Hamburger buns (6, split and toasted): Don’t skip the toasting—it keeps the buns sturdy and ever-so-slightly crispy under the saucy topping.
• Shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese (1-1/2 cups): Melts gorgeously for the ultimate cheesy stretch.

Variations

The beauty of Pizza Burgers is how easily you can make them your own! Play around with toppings, sauces, or even buns to fit your cravings, adventurous moods, or dietary needs—think of it like customizing your own personal pie!

• Pepperoni Pizza Burgers: Add slices of pepperoni to the top of the meat mixture before broiling for a classic twist.
• Veggie Supreme: Swap the beef for a plant-based alternative and load up your burgers with sautéed bell peppers and olives.
• Spicy Kick: Stir in crushed red pepper flakes or add pickled jalapeños for those who like a little heat.
• Cheese Lover’s Dream: Mix in a blend of mozzarella, cheddar, and provolone for extra gooey, melty goodness.
• Open-Faced Option: Serve the saucy beef and cheese atop toasted slices of French bread instead of buns for a “pizza melt” vibe.

How to Make Pizza Burgers

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onion

Start by heating a large cast-iron or heavy skillet over medium heat. Add your ground beef and chopped onion, breaking up the beef as it cooks. You want the meat nicely browned and the onions soft—this usually takes about 3–5 minutes. Remember to drain off any excess fat so your Pizza Burgers won’t be greasy.

Step 2: Build the Pizza Flavor

With the beef and onions cooked, it’s time to stir in your pizza sauce, drained mushrooms, sugar, and oregano. This is where the kitchen starts to smell like an Italian bistro! Let the mixture simmer gently so all the flavors blend together and the sauce thickens just a bit. Make sure everything is heated through and deliciously inviting.

Step 3: Pile Up the Buns

Preheat your broiler and place the split, toasted hamburger buns (cut sides up) on an ungreased baking sheet. Spoon the saucy beef mixture generously over the bottom half of each bun. You can never have too much topping here—go big!

Step 4: Add Cheese and Broil

Sprinkle each bun with a pretty shower of shredded mozzarella. Slide the baking sheet under the broiler, about 4 inches from the heat, and keep a close eye—it only takes around 2 minutes for the cheese to melt and bubble into golden perfection. Remove at once, and get ready for a gooey treat.

Step 5: Serve Hot & Enjoy

Once the cheese is melted and irresistible, serve your Pizza Burgers immediately while they’re piping hot! You can pop the tops on or serve them open-faced—either way, they’ll disappear fast.

How to Serve Pizza Burgers

Garnishes

Take your Pizza Burgers to the next level by sprinkling them with freshly chopped parsley or basil just before serving. A little grated Parmesan or a dash of crushed red pepper gives them an extra hit of classic pizzeria flavor. If you’re a garlic lover, brush the buns with garlic butter before piling on the toppings—it’s magical!

Side Dishes

These burgers pair perfectly with crispy baked French fries, a green salad tossed with Italian dressing, or roasted veggies. For a true pizza night feel, try serving them with mozzarella sticks or a tangy pasta salad on the side. It’s comfort food, so don’t be afraid to go all-in with the classics!

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re hosting a party, try cutting the Pizza Burgers into smaller sliders for a fun appetizer. Stack them open-faced on a platter with extra cheese and toppings so everyone can build their own. Or, for a family-style vibe, serve all the components “DIY pizza bar” style and let everyone assemble their perfect bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Pizza Burgers (which is rare in my house!), store the beef mixture separately from the buns to prevent sogginess. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and toast fresh buns when you’re ready for round two.

Freezing

The cooked beef-pizza mixture freezes surprisingly well! Cool it completely and store in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then assemble your burgers fresh for the best texture.

Reheating

Reheat the beef-pizza mixture gently in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave until steaming hot. Toast your buns separately, then pile on the mixture and top with cheese—broil briefly to melt the cheese again for that just-made goodness.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try Pizza Burgers, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them! They’re easy, adaptable, and guaranteed to add a little joy (and lots of flavor) to any meal. Give them a try—you’re in for a delightful, pizza-packed surprise!

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