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Pizza Burgers – The Ultimate Comfort Food Mashup

Introduction

The first time I tried pizza burgers, I couldn’t believe how well two of my favorite comfort foods combined into one delicious bite. Imagine a juicy burger patty smothered in gooey mozzarella, rich pizza sauce, and crispy pepperoni—it’s like a pizza and a burger had the most mouthwatering baby!

Since then, pizza burgers have become a staple in my home, especially on game nights and backyard BBQs. They’re easy to make, fun to customize, and loaded with flavor. If you love cheeseburgers and pizza, this is the recipe for you!

Why You’ll Love These Pizza Burgers

The Best of Both Worlds – Classic burger meets cheesy, saucy pizza goodness.
Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for weeknights.
Customizable – Load it with your favorite pizza toppings!
Kid-Friendly – A guaranteed hit with the whole family.

Ingredients for the Best Pizza Burgers

For the Burger Patties:

  • 1 lb ground beef (80% lean / 20% fat)
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

For Assembling the Pizza Burgers:

  • 4 hamburger buns (toasted)
  • ½ cup pizza sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 16-20 slices pepperoni
  • 1 tbsp butter (for toasting buns)

Optional Toppings:

  • Sautéed mushrooms
  • Sliced black olives
  • Sliced bell peppers
  • Crushed red pepper flakes

How to Make Pizza Burgers

Step 1: Prepare the Burger Patties

  1. In a bowl, mix ground beef, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  2. Shape the mixture into four burger patties, pressing a small dent in the center of each to prevent puffing while cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Patties

  1. Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Cook the burgers for 4-5 minutes per side, until nicely browned and cooked to your desired doneness.
  3. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Toast the Buns & Melt the Cheese

  1. Spread butter on the cut side of each burger bun and toast in a skillet until golden brown.
  2. On the bottom buns, spread pizza sauce, then top with mozzarella cheese and pepperoni slices.
  3. Broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles.

Step 4: Assemble the Pizza Burgers

  1. Place the cooked burger patties on top of the melted cheese.
  2. Add an extra layer of pizza sauce, cheese, and pepperoni on top.
  3. Broil again for 1-2 minutes, just until the cheese is perfectly melted.
  4. Add the top bun and serve hot!

Best Toppings & Variations for Pizza Burgers

🍄 Supreme Style – Add sautéed mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers.
🔥 Spicy Pepperoni – Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
🧄 Garlic Bread Burger – Brush the buns with garlic butter before toasting.
🌱 Veggie Pizza Burger – Swap the beef for a black bean or veggie patty.

Pro Tips for the Best Pizza Burgers

Use 80/20 ground beef – Juicy burgers need a little fat!
Don’t overmix the meat – Keeps the burgers tender.
Toast the buns – Prevents sogginess from the pizza sauce.
Broil for melty cheese – Creates that irresistible cheesy pizza topping.

How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

Storing Pizza Burgers:

  • Refrigerate: Wrap leftovers in foil and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: Wrap patties individually and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating Instructions:

  • Oven: 350°F for 10-15 minutes (best for keeping the bun crispy).
  • Microwave: 1-2 minutes (quick but may soften the bun).

FAQs About Pizza Burgers

1. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Cook the patties and prep the buns in advance. Just broil everything before serving.

2. What’s the best cheese for pizza burgers?

Mozzarella is classic, but provolone or cheddar works great too.

3. Can I use store-bought pizza sauce?

Absolutely! But making homemade pizza sauce will elevate the flavor.

4. Can I grill these instead of cooking in a skillet?

Yes! Just grill the burgers as usual and broil the buns inside for melty cheese.

5. What sides go well with pizza burgers?

Try them with garlic fries, onion rings, or a Caesar salad.

Conclusion

If you love pizza and burgers, why choose one when you can have both? Pizza burgers bring together the best of both worlds in a juicy, cheesy, and satisfying meal. Whether you’re making them for game night, a family dinner, or a BBQ, these flavor-packed burgers are sure to be a hit!

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