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Pizza Burgers Recipe

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4.9 from 124 reviews

These Pizza Burgers combine the juicy goodness of classic beef patties with delicious pizza toppings like marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and pepperoni. Perfect for a fun twist on traditional burgers, this recipe includes optional veggies and cheese melting techniques to customize your meal.

Ingredients

Beef Patties

  • 2 lbs (900g) lean ground beef (80/20 or 90/10)
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic powder (or 2 cloves minced fresh garlic)
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • Optional: 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese

Buns and Toppings

  • 6-8 burger buns (brioche or potato recommended)
  • 1.5 cups (350g) pizza or marinara sauce
  • 8 oz (225g) sliced mozzarella cheese (or provolone blend)
  • 4 oz (110g) thin-sliced beef pepperoni
  • Optional toppings: 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms, 1/4 cup diced green bell pepper, 1/4 cup diced onion, 1/4 cup sliced black olives, sliced jalapeños
  • 2 tbsp olive or vegetable oil (for cooking)
  • Optional: Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
  • Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese (for sprinkling)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Patties: In a large bowl, gently mix ground beef with Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and optional Parmesan cheese. Avoid overmixing to keep patties tender. Form 6-8 patties, pressing a small dimple in the center of each to prevent puffing during cooking. Chill patties for 15-30 minutes if desired to help them hold shape.
  2. Prepare Toppings and Buns: Slice mushrooms and dice peppers and onions if using; sauté these optional veggies to enhance flavor. Have thin-sliced beef pepperoni and mozzarella cheese slices ready. Lightly toast the burger buns (halves) for 1-2 minutes in a dry skillet or under the broiler to prevent sogginess when assembling.
  3. Cook Patties: Heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive or vegetable oil in a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Cook patties for 3-5 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Avoid pressing down on patties to retain juiciness. Remove patties and set aside.
  4. Assemble the Burgers: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) or prepare the broiler. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place toasted bun bottoms on the sheet. Top each with a cooked beef patty, spread 2-3 tablespoons of pizza sauce over the patty, add 1-2 slices of mozzarella cheese, beef pepperoni, and any other optional toppings like sautéed veggies or olives.
  5. Melt Cheese: Use one of the following methods to melt cheese: bake in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-8 minutes until bubbly; broil for 1-3 minutes watching carefully to avoid burning; or place the assembled burgers in a covered skillet with 1 tablespoon of water over low heat to steam the cheese for 3-5 minutes.
  6. Finish and Serve: Once cheese is melted, remove burgers from heating. Place toasted top buns over each burger. Garnish with optional grated Parmesan cheese or fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately with your choice of sides such as fries or a fresh salad.

Notes

  • Do not overmix the ground beef mixture to keep patties tender and juicy.
  • Press a dimple in the center of the patties to prevent them from puffing up during cooking.
  • Lightly toasting buns helps avoid sogginess when assembled with sauce.
  • You can customize toppings with sautéed mushrooms, peppers, onions, olives, or jalapeños.
  • Monitor cheese closely during broiling to prevent burning.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure patties reach a safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
  • The patties can be chilled before cooking to help maintain their shape.