Pizza Burgers

Description of this recipe
Pizza Burgers are a delightful fusion of two beloved comfort foods: pizza and hamburgers. This recipe combines juicy, seasoned beef patties with the classic flavors of pizza, including gooey mozzarella cheese, zesty pepperoni, and savory pizza sauce—all sandwiched between toasted hamburger buns. It’s a fun and satisfying meal that’s perfect for family gatherings, game day, or any night when you crave something hearty and indulgent.

Why you will love this recipe
You will love this recipe for its simplicity, flavor, and the joy it brings to the table. Pizza Burgers are easy to prepare, making them a great option for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. The combination of flavors is a crowd-pleaser, and you can customize them with your favorite pizza toppings. Plus, they are a fantastic way to bring the family together for a fun cooking experience!

Introduction
There’s something magical about combining two favorite foods into one delicious dish. Pizza Burgers take the best elements of a classic hamburger and a cheesy, savory pizza, creating a mouthwatering meal that everyone will love. This recipe is not only straightforward but also allows for creativity—feel free to add your favorite toppings or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. Whether you’re grilling in the summer or cooking indoors, these Pizza Burgers will satisfy your cravings for both pizza and a hearty burger.

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef
16-24 slices pepperoni
½ cup pizza sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
4 hamburger buns, split and toasted
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Preparation:

Step 1: Prepare the Beef Patties
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix the ingredients until they are evenly distributed throughout the meat. Be careful not to overwork the meat, as this can lead to tough burgers. Once mixed, form the meat into four equal-sized patties, making a slight indentation in the center of each patty to help them cook evenly. Set the patties aside.

Step 2: Toast the Buns
Preheat your broiler to medium-high. Lay the split buns on a baking sheet, cut-side up. Place them under the broiler and toast until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning. Once toasted, remove the buns from the oven and set aside the tops.

Step 3: Grill the Patties
Preheat your grill or grilling pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the beef patties on the grill and cook for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. For a medium burger, aim for an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Once cooked, remove the patties from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.

Step 4: Heat the Pizza Sauce
While the patties are grilling, gently heat the pizza sauce in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. You want it warm, not boiling, to preserve the flavor.

Step 5: Assemble the Bottom Buns
Once the buns are toasted, spread half of the warmed pizza sauce evenly onto the bottom halves of the buns. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, and then arrange a layer of pepperoni slices on top.

Step 6: Broil the Bottom Halves
Place the bottom buns with sauce, cheese, and pepperoni under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close watch to avoid burning.

Step 7: Assemble the Burgers
Top each prepared bottom bun with a grilled beef patty. Add the remaining pizza sauce, more mozzarella cheese, and additional pepperoni slices on top of the patties. Broil again briefly, about 1-2 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted and starts to brown slightly.

Step 8: Finish with the Bun Tops
Carefully place the top buns over each assembled burger. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Pizza Burgers!

COOKING Rating: 4.5/5

Serving Suggestions:
Pizza Burgers are best served hot, straight from the oven or grill. Pair them with classic sides like crispy French fries, onion rings, or a fresh garden salad. For an extra touch, consider serving with additional pizza sauce on the side for dipping. You can also offer a variety of toppings like sliced jalapeños, olives, or sautéed mushrooms for guests to customize their burgers.

Tips:

For a smoky flavor, try adding a few drops of liquid smoke to the ground beef mixture.
If you want to make these burgers even more indulgent, consider adding slices of fresh mozzarella or provolone cheese on top of the patties before broiling.
Feel free to use turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version of these burgers.
Experiment with different types of buns, such as garlic bread or ciabatta, for a unique twist.
Leftover Pizza Burgers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information:

Calories: Approximately 500 per burger
Protein: 28g
Sodium: 900mg

Conclusion
Pizza Burgers are a fun and flavorful way to enjoy two classic dishes in one bite. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner, a game day party, or just want a satisfying meal at home, these burgers are sure to impress. With their juicy beef patties, melty cheese, and delicious toppings, they offer a taste of pizza that you can hold in your hand. So gather your ingredients, fire up the grill or oven, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this delightful dish!

Questions and Answers:

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef for this recipe?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for beef! Just ensure you season it well, as turkey can be milder in flavor.
What other toppings can I add to my Pizza Burgers?
You can customize your Pizza Burgers with various toppings like mushrooms, bell peppers, olives, or even fresh basil for a burst of flavor.
How can I make these burgers spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing crushed red pepper flakes into the ground beef or adding sliced jalapeños on top of the burgers.
Can I prepare the patties in advance?
Absolutely! You can form the patties a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill them.
What side dishes pair well with Pizza Burgers?
Classic sides like French fries, coleslaw, or a simple green salad complement Pizza Burgers perfectly. You can also serve them with garlic knots for a true pizza experience!