Save
Pizza burgers topped with bold pepperoni and bubbling mozzarella are the ultimate way to satisfy both burger and pizza cravings in a single bite. Inspired by family pizza nights and backyard cookouts these cheesy beef burgers bring together everything I love about comfort food and party snacks. Whether you are feeding a crowd or craving a little nostalgia these burgers quickly become a favorite on busy days
My family went wild the first time I served these and now they request pizza burgers every time we fire up the grill. The cheesy pepperoni topping makes it feel like a special treat
Ingredients
- Ground beef: choose 80 percent lean for juicy flavorful burgers
- Italian seasoning: adds depth and herbal warmth look for a fresh blend for best results
- Garlic powder: for subtle background flavor use a fresh jar for potency
- Salt: enhances every layer taste before cooking
- Black pepper: brings a gentle spicy finish freshly cracked is best
- Hamburger buns: sturdy enough for all those toppings toasty for texture
- Pizza sauce: the glue that brings the pizza and burger worlds together try to use a thick sauce
- Mozzarella cheese: for maximum melt always grate your own for stretchiness
- Pepperoni: classic pizza flavor with some heat pick a spicy variety if you like a little kick
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix and Shape the Patties:
- Combine beef Italian seasoning garlic powder salt and pepper in a large bowl and mix until just blended with your hands try not to overwork. Shape into four even patties. Let them rest while you prepare the other ingredients. This helps the flavors meld and prevents tough burgers
- Toast the Buns:
- Preheat your grill or grill pan and set your oven broiler to medium-high. Arrange bun halves cut side up on a baking sheet and toast until golden brown. Remove tops and set aside so they don't overbrown. A crisp bun ensures no soggy bottoms
- Grill the Burger Patties:
- Place patties on the grill and cook for four to five minutes per side. Aim for a nice sear and juicy interior. Rest the cooked burgers on a plate to keep them juicy
- Warm the Sauce and Layer the Bottom Buns:
- While the burgers cook warm the pizza sauce in a saucepan over low heat. Spread half of the sauce over bottom buns then sprinkle on half the mozzarella and pepperoni slices. Run these under the broiler for two to three minutes until cheese starts to bubble and edges brown
- Finish and Assemble the Burgers:
- Place hot burgers on the cheesy saucy buns then top each patty with the remaining sauce mozzarella and pepperoni. Return under the broiler just until the cheese melts and everything is piping hot. Top with remaining bun halves and press gently
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve immediately while hot with extra napkins. Enjoy the best of both worlds
Save
Broiling the cheese right on the bun gives that stretchy pizza magic that made these a family obsession for us. I love using spicy pepperoni which reminds me of late nights making pizza with my cousins
Storage Tips
Store leftover pizza burgers wrapped tightly in foil in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat pop them under the broiler or in a hot skillet for a few minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the bun crispy. Do not assemble too early as buns may get soggy
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap ground turkey or chicken for beef for a lighter version just keep the seasonings the same. Try provolone or a pizza blend cheese if mozzarella is unavailable. Omit pepperoni and add mushrooms or bell peppers for a vegetarian take
Serving Suggestions
Pile on extra pizza toppings like sliced olives or jalapeños. Serve with a crisp salad or oven fries for a cozy meal. Mini versions make great party sliders
Save
Cultural Context
Pizza burgers were a fun creation for my family when I wanted to combine two classic American favorites. They echo the playful spirit of diner food and pizza parties and always bring a smile to everyone at the table
Recipe FAQs
- → What keeps the beef patties juicy?
Using ground beef with 80/20 fat content, along with gentle mixing and careful grilling, keeps the patties moist and flavorful.
- → Can I substitute mozzarella with another cheese?
Yes, provolone or Monterey Jack both melt well and pair nicely with the pepperoni and sauce flavors.
- → Do the buns need to be toasted?
Toasting the buns creates a sturdy base that resists getting soggy from the sauce and adds a pleasant crunch.
- → How do you prevent the patties from shrinking too much?
Form slightly larger patties and create a shallow dimple in the center before grilling to help them maintain their shape.
- → Are there any topping variations?
Try adding sautéed onions, sliced olives, or roasted bell peppers for extra flavor and a personalized twist.