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My Pizza Burgers have become legendary in our neighborhood. Ever since I started making these juicy beef patties topped with marinara gooey mozzarella and crispy pepperoni everyone wants the recipe. They combine everything we love about burgers and pizza into one amazing handheld meal that brings smiles every time.
Two Favorites In One
Sometimes the best recipes come from combining what we already love. These burgers take that perfect beef patty and dress it up with all our favorite pizza toppings. My kids go crazy for these and honestly the adults do too. That combination of melty cheese tangy sauce and pepperoni on a toasted bun creates pure magic.
What You'll Need
- Ground Beef: 1 pound lean I use 85% for the best flavor.
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon adds such depth.
- Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon my pizza secret.
- Salt & Pepper: 1 teaspoon each makes everything pop.
- Pizza Sauce: ½ cup warmed get the good stuff.
- Mozzarella: 4 slices fresh melts beautifully.
- Pepperoni: 8 slices crisp them up if you like.
- Buns: 4 sturdy ones they need to hold everything.
Let's Make Magic
- Start With The Beef
- Mix your ground beef with all those wonderful seasonings. I use my hands it's the best way to get everything evenly mixed.
- Shape Your Burgers
- Make four equal patties and press a little dimple in the middle. This keeps them from puffing up while cooking.
- Time To Cook
- Get your pan or grill nice and hot. Cook those patties about 4-5 minutes each side until they're perfect.
- Toast Those Buns
- A toasted bun makes all the difference. Just a quick toast under the broiler does the trick.
- Build Your Masterpiece
- Layer that sauce cheese pepperoni everything you love. Pop it under the broiler just until that cheese gets melty and bubbly.
- Time To Enjoy
- Serve them up while they're hot with extra sauce on the side for dipping.
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My Best Tips
The lean beef keeps things from getting too messy but still gives great flavor. Always toast those buns nobody likes a soggy bottom. That little dimple in the middle of your patties might seem silly but trust me it works magic.
Make It Your Own
Some nights I add sautéed mushrooms and onions. My husband loves his with pineapple just like his pizza. Switch up the cheese try provolone or even pepper jack. These burgers welcome creativity.
Perfect Partners
We love these with my garlic parmesan fries or a simple green salad. On game days they're amazing with cold beer and plenty of napkins. The combo of flavors just works so well together.
Save Some For Later
If you have leftovers store everything separate in the fridge. They'll keep about three days. Just warm up the patties in a skillet or the oven when you're ready for round two.
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Mix It Up
Sometimes I use ground turkey for a lighter version. Adding Italian sausage to the beef mix creates incredible flavor. My vegetarian friends love these with portobello caps instead of beef.
Fun For Everyone
Setting up a pizza burger bar is my favorite way to serve these for parties. Everyone gets to build their own with their favorite toppings. The kids especially love being in charge of their creations.
Sauce It Up
While marinara is classic try them with garlic butter or pesto. A drizzle of ranch takes them in a whole new direction. The sauce really makes each burger special.
Party Perfect
These burgers star at every gathering. I prep the patties early then let everyone customize their own. It's such an easy way to feed a crowd and everyone loves them.
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Everyone Can Enjoy
For my gluten free friends I wrap these in lettuce or use gluten free buns. Just check your sauce and seasonings to make sure everything's safe. The flavors are still amazing.
Stock Up
I always keep some patties in the freezer. They thaw overnight in the fridge making dinner super easy. Just add toppings and dinner's ready.
Little Extras
Try hiding cheese inside the patties for a surprise in every bite. Brush those buns with garlic butter before toasting pure heaven. Small touches make these burgers extra special.
No Meat No Problem
My black bean version of these burgers has converted many skeptics. Top them just like the beef ones the pizza flavors work perfectly with any base.
Sauce Secrets
Good pizza sauce makes these burgers sing. That sweet tangy flavor with the beef and cheese creates the perfect bite. I always keep extra warm for dipping.
Party Size
Make these as sliders for parties. Just use smaller buns and patties. They're perfect for grazing and sharing everyone loves a mini version.
Fresh Finish
Fresh basil on top takes these to restaurant level. That pop of green and fresh herb flavor makes everything taste even better. Growing herbs in my kitchen window makes this easy.
Pure Joy
These pizza burgers bring so much happiness to our table. They're easy enough for busy weeknights but special enough for celebrations. That combination of familiar flavors in a new way just works perfectly.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why let the patties rest before cooking?
Resting allows the seasonings to blend with the meat and helps the patties hold together better during cooking.
- → What other toppings can I add?
You can add any pizza toppings you enjoy - mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, or olives work well. Just make sure they're pre-cooked if needed.
- → Can I make these without a grill?
Yes, you can cook the patties in a skillet or on a griddle. Just ensure they reach proper temperature for food safety.
- → Why toast the buns?
Toasting prevents the buns from getting soggy from the sauce and helps them hold up better under the melted cheese.
- → Can I use different cheese?
While mozzarella gives the authentic pizza taste, you can also use provolone or an Italian cheese blend for variation.