If you’re craving a meal that brings together the best of two comfort food worlds, then let me introduce you to my all-time favorite: the Easy Pizza Burgers Recipe. This delightful twist on a classic burger boasts juicy, herb-infused beef patties topped with melty mozzarella and savory pepperoni, all nestled inside a lightly toasted bun spread with rich pizza sauce. It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures that feels like a mini pizza party in every bite, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for weeknights or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering fresh and flavorful ingredients is the secret to making this recipe shine. Each component plays a unique role in creating the bold, satisfying taste and perfect texture that defines these pizza-inspired burgers.
- 1 pound ground beef: Choose good-quality beef for juicy, tender patties packed with flavor.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs: These help keep the patties moist and give them a nice, slightly firm texture.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty kick that elevates the beef with depth.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: This herb brings that classic pizza aroma and a hint of earthiness.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Sweet and slightly minty, basil enhances the Italian-inspired flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Garlic is essential for that familiar pizza house savoriness.
- 1 egg: Acts as a binder, keeping the mixture together as the patties cook.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just a touch of heat and complexity.
- 2 large hamburger buns: Lightly toasted for a bit of crunch and to hold all the toppings perfectly.
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce: The saucy base that ties everything together with tangy tomato goodness.
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully over the patties, giving that signature pizza cheesiness.
- 8 slices pepperoni: The finishing touch—crispy, spicy, and full of character.
How to Make Easy Pizza Burgers Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Burger Ingredients
Start by combining the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, oregano, basil, garlic powder, egg, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix everything gently with your hands or a spoon until all the ingredients are well incorporated. This careful mixing not only blends the flavors but ensures the patties hold together well during cooking.
Step 2: Form the Patties
Divide the mixture evenly and shape it into two equal-sized patties. Keep them slightly wider than your buns since they’ll shrink a bit while cooking. Pressing them to an even thickness helps guarantee they cook uniformly, making each bite juicily consistent.
Step 3: Cook the Patties
Heat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Once hot, add your patties and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side. This timing brings out that delicious crust on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy. Adjust the cooking time if you prefer your burgers more or less done.
Step 4: Add Mozzarella and Pepperoni
In the last minute of cooking, layer 2 slices of mozzarella cheese and 4 slices of pepperoni on each patty. The cheese will melt into gooey perfection while the pepperoni crisps up a bit, creating that irresistible pizza flavor combo right on the burger.
Step 5: Toast the Buns
While the cheese melts, toast the hamburger buns lightly in the same skillet or a toaster. This step adds a pleasant crunch and prevents the buns from getting soggy once you add the saucy burger.
Step 6: Assemble with Pizza Sauce
Spread a generous layer of pizza sauce on the bottom half of each bun. This tomato-rich base brings the signature flavor you expect from a pizza, which perfectly complements the savory patties and melty cheese.
Step 7: Serve Immediately
Place your cheesy, pepperoni-topped patties on the prepared buns, cover with the top half, and serve right away. These burgers are best enjoyed warm when the cheese is still gooey and the buns are crisp.
How to Serve Easy Pizza Burgers Recipe
Garnishes
Elevate your pizza burgers by adding fresh garnishes like a handful of arugula or fresh basil leaves that provide a peppery, herbaceous contrast. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add a welcome bit of heat. For an extra pop of color and flavor, try thinly sliced red onions or roasted red peppers.
Side Dishes
Pair these pizza burgers with classic sides such as crispy French fries or oven-roasted potatoes. A fresh Caesar salad or a crunchy coleslaw also makes an excellent lighter counterpart. For a truly Italian-inspired feast, serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple Caprese salad to keep the theme cohesive and flavorful.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests or family? Serve these pizza burgers open-faced on a wooden board, garnished with fresh herbs and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Another fun presentation is to cut the assembled burgers into smaller sliders—perfect for sharing or a party platter. Using colorful artisan buns or adding fun toppings like sliced olives or sun-dried tomatoes can add a gourmet touch that feels extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover pizza burgers, wrap them tightly in foil or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay good for up to 3 days, making for an easy next-day meal without losing too much of their fresh flavor.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze individual cooked patties without buns in freezer bags or containers. They can keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Avoid freezing assembled burgers with buns to prevent sogginess.
Reheating
Reheat leftover patties in the oven or a skillet over medium heat to keep the outsides crispy. You can add fresh cheese and pepperoni on top while warming them through to bring back that freshly made pizza flavor. Toast buns separately before assembling for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a leaner option, though the patties may be a bit less juicy. Adding a little extra moisture, like a splash of olive oil or a bit more egg, can help keep them tender.
What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
You can substitute Parmesan with any hard, salty cheese like Pecorino Romano or even a sprinkle of sharp cheddar. It changes the flavor slightly but still adds great depth to the patties.
Can I make these burgers spicy?
Definitely! Add some red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños into the beef mixture or use spicy pepperoni for an extra kick that balances nicely with the cheese and herbs.
Is it okay to use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes, fresh oregano and basil can be used! Use about three times as much fresh herbs as the dried amount to maintain a similar intensity of flavor.
Can I cook these burgers on a grill instead of a skillet?
Yes, grilling works perfectly and adds a wonderful smoky flavor. Just make sure to oil the grates well and monitor cooking time to prevent the patties from drying out.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly comforting about combining two favorite dishes into one, and this Easy Pizza Burgers Recipe does just that with flair and simplicity. Whether you’re feeding a family or craving a quick delicious meal, this recipe brings joyful flavors and endless satisfaction every single time. Give it a try—I promise these pizza burgers will become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.
Print
Easy Pizza Burgers Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 burgers
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Enjoy a delicious twist on the classic burger with these Easy Pizza Burgers. Juicy ground beef patties are seasoned with Italian herbs and Parmesan, topped with melted mozzarella, pepperoni, and pizza sauce, all served on toasted hamburger buns for a perfect pizza-inspired meal ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Beef Patties
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Assembly
- 2 large hamburger buns
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese
- 8 slices pepperoni
Instructions
- Prepare the beef mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Shape the patties: Divide the beef mixture evenly and form into 2 equal-sized round patties, ensuring they are compact for even cooking.
- Cook the patties: Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Place the patties on the surface and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side or until they reach your desired doneness, making sure they are cooked through.
- Add cheese and pepperoni: In the last minute of cooking, lay 2 slices of mozzarella cheese and 4 slices of pepperoni on each patty. Allow the cheese to melt slightly before removing from heat.
- Toast the buns: Lightly toast the hamburger buns on a skillet or grill until golden and crisp to enhance texture and flavor.
- Assemble the burgers: Spread pizza sauce evenly on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place the cooked patties with melted cheese and pepperoni on top, then cover with the top buns.
- Serve immediately: Serve the pizza burgers hot for the best taste and enjoy this quick and flavorful meal.
Notes
- You can customize the pizza sauce by using your favorite brand or homemade version.
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes to the beef mixture or use spicy pepperoni.
- Make sure not to overmix the beef to keep the patties tender.
- These burgers can be cooked on a grill or stovetop skillet depending on your preference.
- Use fresh herbs if available for more vibrant flavor.
