If you love cheeseburgers and can’t resist pizza, why not combine the two into one epic meal? Pizza Burgers are the ultimate fusion of flavors, featuring a juicy burger patty smothered in pizza sauce, gooey melted cheese, and your favorite pizza toppings, like pepperoni. It’s the perfect grown-up snack or a fun option for weeknight burgers for dinner.
Whether you’re looking for a creative twist on unique cheeseburger recipes, a satisfying meat and cheese meal, or a hearty pizza dish dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. It’s simple, versatile, and an excellent choice for any occasion, from casual lunches to game day feasts.
Why You’ll Love Pizza Burgers
This recipe is a dream for anyone who loves bold flavors and comfort food. Imagine biting into a juicy burger patty layered with rich pizza sauce, melted mozzarella, and crispy pepperoni, all tucked into a toasted bun. It’s quick enough to make as a dinner idea for one person yet impressive enough to serve a crowd.
Ingredients
For the Burger Patties:
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Pizza Toppings:
- 1 cup pizza sauce
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese (or shredded mozzarella)
- 12–16 pepperoni slices
- Optional: mushrooms, bell peppers, or black olives
For the Buns:
- 4 hamburger buns (or slider buns for mini pizza burgers)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Burger Patties
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until the seasonings are evenly distributed. Form the mixture into 4 burger patties, using a burger press recipe if desired for even thickness.
Cook the patties in a skillet or on a grill over medium-high heat, about 4–5 minutes per side, until they reach your desired doneness. Set aside to rest.
2. Prepare the Buns
Brush the hamburger buns with melted butter, then sprinkle with garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Toast them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes, or until golden and slightly crisp.
3. Assemble the Pizza Burgers
Place each burger patty on the bottom half of a toasted bun. Spread a generous spoonful of pizza sauce over the patty, then layer with a slice of mozzarella cheese and pepperoni slices.
4. Melt the Cheese
Place the assembled burgers on a baking sheet and broil in the oven for 2–3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Top the burgers with additional pizza toppings if desired, then finish with the top bun. Serve immediately with a side of fries, salad, or garlic breadsticks for the ultimate pizza burger recipe homemade experience.
Tips for the Best Pizza Burgers
- Customize Your Toppings: Get creative with your pizza-inspired toppings! Add mushrooms, jalapeños, pineapple, or even a drizzle of ranch dressing for a unique twist.
- Try a Slider Version: For bite-sized fun, make mini pizza burgers using slider buns and smaller patties. These are perfect for parties or appetizers.
- Go Beyond Mozzarella: Swap in provolone, cheddar, or even a spicy pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
Variations to Try
- Pizza Burger Ground Beef Alternative: Swap ground beef for turkey, chicken, or plant-based patties for a lighter option.
- Pizza Witches Recipe: Transform this into a Halloween treat by using a stencil to add spooky designs to the melted cheese using edible food coloring.
- Burger Pizza Twist: Instead of buns, use pizza dough to create a burger-pizza hybrid. Wrap the patty in dough, add toppings, and bake until golden.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
Combining the best of both worlds, pizza burgers are a fun and easy way to switch up your dinner routine. They’re versatile enough to customize for picky eaters and bold enough to wow even the most adventurous eaters. Whether you’re diving into cheeseburger ideas burgers or exploring new home made recipes, this one’s a keeper.
