What Are Pizza Burgers?
Looking for a creative way to combine two of America’s favorite comfort foods? Say hello to Pizza Burgers — a genius fusion dish that brings together the savory juiciness of a classic burger with the bold flavors of a traditional pepperoni pizza.
These mouthwatering burgers feature a seasoned beef patty loaded with gooey mozzarella cheese, crispy pepperoni slices, tangy marinara sauce, and a sprinkle of Italian herbs — all sandwiched between a toasted brioche or sesame bun. It’s like biting into a warm slice of pizza in burger form!
Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, planning a family dinner, or just craving something new, Pizza Burgers are a fun and flavorful option that kids and adults alike will devour.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make these irresistible burgers step by step, including expert tips, variations, and answers to frequently asked questions so you can customize them to your taste.
Why You’ll Love These Pizza Burgers
Here’s why Pizza Burgers should become a regular on your dinner menu:
- Perfect Flavor Combo : Merges the best of both worlds — pizza and burgers.
- Easy to Make : Requires basic ingredients and minimal prep time.
- Great for Any Occasion : Ideal for casual dinners, game day, cookouts, or meal prep.
- Customizable : Swap toppings and sauces to suit your preferences.
- Crowd-Pleaser : Loved by both burger and pizza lovers.
Ingredients Needed for Pizza Burgers (Makes 4)
To make these cheesy, saucy Pizza Burgers , you’ll need:
For the Burger Patties:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for juiciness)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Topping the Burgers:
- 4 hamburger buns (brioche or sesame seed recommended)
- 4 oz sliced mozzarella cheese
- 8–12 slices of pepperoni
- ¼ cup marinara sauce (or more to taste)
- Fresh basil leaves (optional for garnish)
- Extra virgin olive oil (for brushing buns)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s dive into how to make these delicious Pizza Burgers at home.
Step 1: Prepare the Burger Patties
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Ground beef
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Oregano
- Basil
- Crushed red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper
Mix gently with your hands until just combined (avoid overmixing to keep the patties tender).
Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a ball. Flatten slightly to form thick patties (about ¾-inch thick). Use your thumb to make a small indentation in the center to prevent puffing up while cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Patties
Heat a skillet, grill pan, or outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Brush lightly with oil to prevent sticking.
Cook the patties for about 3–4 minutes per side , or until they reach your desired doneness (medium-rare to well-done). Internal temperature should be at least 160°F (71°C) for food safety.
During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of mozzarella cheese on top of each patty to melt.
Step 3: Toast the Buns
While the patties are cooking, brush the cut sides of the buns with a little olive oil and toast them lightly in a toaster oven, under the broiler, or on the grill for about 1–2 minutes until golden brown.
Step 4: Assemble the Pizza Burgers
Build each burger by spreading a spoonful of marinara sauce on the bottom bun. Place the cooked patty with melted cheese on top.
Add 2–3 slices of pepperoni per burger. Drizzle with additional marinara if desired.
Top with fresh basil leaves and the top bun. Serve immediately.
Pro Tips for the Best Results
Want to take your Pizza Burgers from good to amazing? Try these expert tips:
- Use High-Quality Beef : An 80/20 fat blend ensures juicy, flavorful patties.
- Don’t Press Down While Cooking : Let the patties sear undisturbed for better crust formation.
- Add More Cheese : Layer extra mozzarella or Parmesan into the patty mixture for a stuffed cheeseburger version.
- Upgrade the Sauce : Try homemade marinara or pesto for an extra gourmet touch.
- Make It Spicy : Add hot honey, jalapeños, or extra red pepper flakes for a kick.
Variations and Customizations
This recipe is highly customizable! Here are some fun twists to try:
Veggie Pizza Burger
Replace beef with a plant-based burger patty or a black bean and mushroom blend. Add grilled veggies like bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms.
Philly Cheesesteak Pizza Burger
Swap pepperoni for thinly sliced steak and add sautéed onions and green peppers. Use provolone cheese instead of mozzarella.
Hawaiian Pizza Burger
Skip pepperoni and use ham slices instead. Top with pineapple chunks and a drizzle of teriyaki sauce.
White Pizza Burger
Omit marinara and use alfredo sauce. Add spinach, garlic, and ricotta cheese crumbles.
Serving Suggestions
These Pizza Burgers are perfect for:
- Weeknight Dinners
- Backyard BBQs
- Game Day Snacks
- Kids’ Meals
- Meal Prep Lunches
Pair them with:
- Garlic fries or sweet potato fries
- Caesar salad or wedge salad
- Coleslaw or pasta salad
- Iced tea, lemonade, or a cold beer
Storage and Reheating Tips
Proper storage helps maintain flavor and texture.
Refrigerator Storage:
- Store leftover patties in an airtight container for up to 3 days .
- Freeze uncooked patties for up to 3 months — wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
Reheating:
- Reheat cooked patties in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave for 1–2 minutes.
- Toast buns separately to avoid sogginess.
Nutritional Information (Per Burger)
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (assuming 4 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450–500 kcal |
| Protein | 20–25g |
| Fat | 25–30g |
| Carbohydrates | 25–30g |
| Fiber | 1–2g |
| Sugar | 3–5g |
| Sodium | 600–800mg |
Note: Exact values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Yes! Substitute mozzarella with provolone, cheddar, or even goat cheese for a unique twist.
Can I Make These Ahead?
Yes! Form the patties ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking.
How Do I Keep the Burgers Juicy?
Avoid pressing down on the patties while cooking, and let them rest for a few minutes after grilling.
What If I Don’t Have Marinara?
Substitute with pizza sauce, ketchup mixed with Italian seasoning, or a dollop of pesto.
Can I Bake the Patties Instead of Grilling?
Yes! Bake at 375°F (190°C) on a wire rack-lined baking sheet for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Final Thoughts
The Pizza Burger is a brilliant twist on two beloved classics that brings together the best of both worlds — the smoky char of a grilled burger and the rich, savory flavors of a pepperoni pizza. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal right at home.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, impressing guests at a cookout, or just treating yourself to something special, these Pizza Burgers are sure to hit the spot every time.
So fire up the grill, grab your favorite toppings, and enjoy this delicious fusion of two American favorites!
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Pizza Burgers – The Ultimate Fusion Recipe for Comfort Food Lovers
Ingredients
– 1 lb. ground beef 
– ½ lb. ground sausage (bulk or Italian) 
– 2 tablespoons butter 
– 8 ounces mushrooms, thickly sliced 
– ½ yellow onion, finely chopped 
– 2 cloves garlic, minced 
– ½ teaspoon marjoram 
– 3 cups marinara 
– Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper 
– 6 English Muffins 
– 2 ounces pepperoni, diced 
– 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese 
Instructions
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef and ground sausage. When the meat is halfway browned, add the butter, mushrooms, and onion. Cook until the meat and mushrooms are browned and the onions are tender.
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the garlic and marjoram, cooking for 1 minute while stirring. Mix in the marinara and season with kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper. Let it simmer for about 7-10 minutes.
Meanwhile, split and toast the English muffins on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil under the broiler. Evenly distribute the meat mixture over the toasted muffins. Top with diced pepperoni and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. Broil for about 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted.