Pizza Burgers with Ground Beef
Pizza burgers are an incredibly satisfying meal that combines the classic flavors of pizza with the comforting qualities of a burger. Using ground beef as the base, these pizza burgers are packed with savory goodness, gooey melted cheese, and a rich tomato sauce. The combination of burger and pizza is a sure hit with kids and adults alike. They’re perfect for a weeknight dinner, a casual family gathering, or even a fun BBQ event.
In this recipe, you will learn how to make pizza burgers with ground beef that are easy to prepare and absolutely mouthwatering.
Recipe Preparation Equipment
Before diving into the recipe, here’s a list of the essential equipment you will need to make these delicious pizza burgers:
- Grill or stovetop skillet
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Spatula
- Burger press (optional)
- Knife and cutting board
- Spoon for spreading sauce
- Cheese grater (if using block cheese)
What Do You Need to Prepare Pizza Burgers with Ground Beef?
Ingredients:
For the ground beef patties:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably 80% lean)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
For the pizza topping:
- 1/2 cup pizza sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced pepperoni (optional, or any pizza topping you prefer)
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 burger buns (preferably sesame or brioche buns)
Optional toppings:
- Sliced mushrooms
- Sliced green peppers
- Fresh basil leaves
- Red onion rings
How to Make Easy Pizza Burgers with Ground Beef – Step-by-Step ?
Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef Patties
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well, but be careful not to overwork the meat to avoid tough burgers. Divide the meat into four equal portions and shape each portion into a round patty that is slightly larger than your buns, as they will shrink a bit while cooking.
- Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the burger patties onto the pan or grill. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. If you're using a grill, you may want to flip the burgers once to ensure they cook evenly.
- Once the patties are nearly cooked through, spoon a tablespoon of pizza sauce onto each patty. Then, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce. Let the patties cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- While the burgers are finishing up, toast your burger buns on a separate pan or in a toaster. Toasting the buns adds a nice crunch and helps them hold up better against the sauce.
- Once the burgers and buns are ready, place each cooked patty with melted cheese and sauce onto the bottom half of each toasted bun. Add optional toppings such as pepperoni, mushrooms, or fresh basil if desired. Top with the other half of the bun, and your pizza burgers are ready to serve!
Variations
Pizza burgers are versatile, so feel free to get creative with the toppings and flavors. You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar, provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses for an extra cheesy experience. For those who enjoy spicy food, try adding a few slices of jalapeños or drizzling some hot sauce over the top.
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Pizza Burgers with Ground Beef |
If you prefer a low-carb option, use lettuce wraps instead of buns. You can even switch up the protein by using turkey or chicken in place of ground beef. Each variation brings its own flair to this already flavorful dish.
Cooking Notes
When making pizza burgers, it’s important to not overcook the ground beef, as it can become dry and tough. Aim for a medium-rare to medium cook for the juiciest result. If you prefer your burgers well-done, cook them a little longer, but don’t let them sit on the grill or pan for too long.
You want the cheese to melt just right without the meat drying out. If you’re using a thicker patty, consider making an indentation in the center before cooking to help them cook more evenly.
Serving Suggestions
Pizza burgers are best served immediately while the cheese is still melted and gooey. Pair them with crispy French fries, potato wedges, or a simple side salad to balance out the richness of the burger.
A refreshing coleslaw or a side of pickles also complements the flavors of the pizza burger well. For an even more indulgent meal, serve with garlic bread or mozzarella sticks on the side.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh ground beef with a fat content of around 80% to 85% for the juiciest burgers.
- If you want extra flavor, season the buns with garlic butter or Italian seasoning before toasting.
- Make sure to let the cooked burgers rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps redistribute the juices throughout the meat.
- For added texture, try adding crispy bacon strips to the burger before assembling.
- You can easily double or triple this recipe if you’re feeding a crowd. Just make sure your pan or grill is large enough to cook the patties in batches.
Tips for the Best Pizza Burgers with Ground Beef
Don’t skimp on the pizza sauce! A good quality pizza sauce with bold tomato flavors will make a huge difference in the taste of the burger.
Ensure that the cheese is fully melted before serving for that signature pizza-like stretch.
If using toppings like pepperoni or sausage, be sure to slightly crisp them up in a pan before adding them to the burger, as this enhances the flavor.
For a unique twist, try adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze on top of the burger for an unexpected sweet touch.
Prep Time/ Cooking Time/ Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Carbs: 30g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
FAQs
Can I use a different type of ground meat for these burgers?
Yes! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even pork in place of ground beef. Just be aware that the flavor and texture may vary.
Can I make these pizza burgers ahead of time?
You can prepare the patties ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also assemble the burgers, but it’s best to serve them fresh for optimal flavor.
What can I serve these pizza burgers with?
Pizza burgers pair well with classic sides like French fries, onion rings, or a simple side salad. For a pizza-themed meal, you can even serve some garlic bread or mozzarella sticks.
Conclusion
Pizza burgers with ground beef are a perfect fusion of two classic comfort foods, offering the best of both worlds in one delicious burger. Whether you're hosting a casual get-together or craving a fun and satisfying dinner, these burgers are sure to impress. With easy preparation, versatile toppings, and incredible flavor, they are bound to become a favorite in your household.
Try this recipe today and enjoy a cheesy, flavorful meal that’s simple to make and hard to resist!