The Ultimate Pizza Burger Recipe

Why choose between pizza and a burger when you can have both in one delicious creation? The Pizza Burger is a fun, flavorful fusion of two classic comfort foods. Featuring a juicy beef patty, rich marinara sauce, melted mozzarella cheese, and your favorite pizza toppings, this recipe combines the best of both worlds. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a weekend treat, this indulgent dish is easy to customize and guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients

For the Burger Patties:

1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend for juiciness)

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tbsp olive oil (for grilling or pan-frying)

For the Pizza Burger:

4 hamburger buns

1 cup marinara or pizza sauce

8 slices of mozzarella cheese (or pizza cheese blend)

1/2 cup pepperoni slices (optional)

1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (optional)

1/2 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)

1/2 tsp dried oregano (optional, for garnish)

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Burger Patties

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat.
3. Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape into patties about the size of your hamburger buns.

Step 2: Cook the Patties

1. Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil.
2. Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. Ensure the internal temperature hits 160°F (71°C) for food safety.

Step 3: Toast the Buns

While the patties are cooking, lightly toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster until golden brown.

Step 4: Assemble the Pizza Burger

1. Spoon marinara sauce over each cooked patty.
2. Add two slices of mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce. Let the heat from the patty melt the cheese.
3. Add any additional toppings like pepperoni, bell peppers, or mushrooms.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

1. Place the loaded patty on the bottom half of a toasted bun.
2. Sprinkle with dried oregano and red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
3. Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately.

Tips for Perfect Pizza Burgers

1. Cheese Choices: Mozzarella is classic, but feel free to use provolone, cheddar, or a pizza cheese blend for variety.
2. Grilling for Flavor: Grill the patties for added smoky flavor and those picture-perfect grill marks.
3. Custom Toppings: Use your favorite pizza ingredients like olives, onions, or sausage for a personalized touch.
4. Healthier Options: Swap ground beef for lean turkey or chicken, and opt for whole-grain or gluten-free buns for dietary preferences.
5. Prevent Overcooking: Use a meat thermometer to ensure patties are juicy and cooked just right.

Variations

Vegetarian Pizza Burger: Replace the beef patty with a veggie patty or grilled portobello mushroom cap.

BBQ Pizza Burger: Use barbecue sauce instead of marinara and top with grilled onions, bacon, and cheddar cheese.

Hawaiian Pizza Burger: Add ham and pineapple slices for a sweet and savory tropical twist.

Spicy Pizza Burger: Mix chopped jalapeños into the ground beef for a kick of heat.

How to Store

Refrigerator: Store leftover patties and toppings in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep buns separate to avoid sogginess.

Freezer: Freeze cooked patties individually wrapped in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat patties in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Toast buns and assemble as fresh.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought burger patties?
   Yes! Pre-made patties save time and work well in this recipe. Just add the seasonings for extra flavor.
2. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
   Use gluten-free buns and ensure that your marinara sauce is gluten-free.
3. Can I prepare the patties in advance?
   Absolutely! Shape the patties and store them in the fridge, covered, for up to 24 hours before cooking.
4. What if I don’t have a grill?
   No problem. A stovetop skillet or grill pan works just as well for cooking the patties.
5. How do I prevent my buns from getting soggy?
   Toast the buns and add a thin layer of melted cheese or butter before placing the patty. This acts as a barrier for the marinara sauce.

Enjoy Your Pizza Burger!

Dive into the delightful fusion of pizza and burgers with this fun, flavorful recipe. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, game-day meals, or a weekend indulgence. Customize with your favorite toppings and enjoy every bite of this comforting and satisfying dish!