If you're looking for a delicious twist on two all-time favorite foods—pizza and burgers—then you're in for a treat! This Easy Pizza Burgers recipe is the perfect blend of juicy beef patties, savory pizza toppings, and gooey melted cheese, all nestled between perfectly toasted buns. Whether you're planning a casual family dinner or looking to impress guests at your next gathering, these Pizza Burgers are sure to be a hit. Keep reading to discover how to make these mouthwatering burgers and elevate your dinner game with this simple, yet satisfying recipe.

What Are Pizza Burgers?
Pizza Burgers are exactly what they sound like—a delectable fusion of pizza and burgers. Imagine taking all the best parts of a classic pizza, such as tangy tomato sauce, pepperoni, and mozzarella cheese, and layering them on top of a juicy beef patty. The result is a hearty, flavorful burger that combines the savory satisfaction of a burger with the irresistible taste of pizza. It's the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients List for Pizza Burgers
To create these tasty Pizza Burgers, you'll need the following ingredients:
- Beef Patties: The foundation of the burger. You'll want to use lean ground beef to keep the burgers juicy but not too greasy.
- ⅓ cup Pepperoni (finely diced): Adds that classic pizza flavor to the burgers. Finely dicing the pepperoni helps it blend well with the ground beef.
- ¼ cup Green Bell Pepper (finely diced): Provides a fresh, slightly sweet crunch that pairs perfectly with the savory beef and pepperoni.
- 1 pound Lean Ground Beef: The main protein for the burgers. Opt for lean ground beef to balance flavor and texture.
- ¼ cup Parmesan Cheese (grated): Infuses the patties with a nutty, cheesy flavor that complements the other ingredients.
- ½ teaspoon Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that gives the burgers a distinct pizza-like taste.
- ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder: Enhances the overall flavor with a subtle garlic kick.
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil: Used for cooking the patties, olive oil ensures a beautiful sear and adds richness to the dish.
Ingredients List for Serving
- ¼ cup Pizza Sauce (plus additional for dipping, if desired): The quintessential pizza element, this sauce brings a zesty tomato flavor to the burgers.
- 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese (shredded): Essential for that gooey, melty cheese layer on top of the patties.
- ¼ cup Thin Pepperoni Slices: Adds extra pepperoni goodness on top of the burger, making it even more like a pizza.
- 1 tablespoon Garlic Butter or Butter: Used to toast the buns, giving them a buttery, garlic-infused flavor.
- 4 Brioche Buns or Hamburger Buns: Soft, slightly sweet buns that provide the perfect base for the pizza burgers.
Substitutions and Variations
If you want to put your own spin on this Pizza Burgers recipe, there are plenty of ways to customize it:
- Cheese: While mozzarella is the traditional choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or gouda. Each will bring a different flavor profile to your burgers.
- Meat: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian option.
- Vegetables: Add more veggies like sautéed onions, mushrooms, or spinach to your patties or as toppings to give the burgers extra nutrition and flavor.
- Spice Level: If you like your food spicy, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the beef mixture or top the burgers with jalapeños.
- Sauce: Swap out the pizza sauce for marinara or even pesto for a unique twist on the traditional pizza burger.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making these Pizza Burgers is a straightforward process that doesn’t require advanced culinary skills. Here’s how to do it:
- Cook the Pepperoni and Green Bell Pepper: Begin by heating a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced pepperoni and green bell pepper. Sauté for about 4 minutes, or until the green bell pepper is tender. Once cooked, remove the mixture from the skillet and let it cool completely.
- Prepare the Beef Patties: In a medium bowl, combine the lean ground beef, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and the cooled pepperoni mixture. Mix everything together until well combined. Form the mixture into four ½-inch thick patties.
- Cook the Patties: Heat the olive oil in an oven-proof skillet over medium heat. Add the patties to the skillet and cook for 4-6 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 150°F.
- Prepare the Pizza Sauce: While the patties are cooking, heat the pizza sauce on the stovetop or in the microwave until warm.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Once the patties are cooked, turn the broiler on to high. Spoon 1 tablespoon of pizza sauce over each patty, then top with shredded mozzarella cheese and a few thin slices of pepperoni. Broil for 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese melts and starts to brown.
- Toast the Buns: While the patties rest for 3 minutes, spread garlic butter on the brioche or hamburger buns. Broil the buns for 1-2 minutes, or until lightly toasted.
- Assemble the Burgers: Place a beef patty on each toasted bun. Serve with additional warm pizza sauce on the side for dipping, if desired.
How to Cook Pizza Burgers: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking the perfect Pizza Burgers requires attention to detail, particularly when it comes to cooking the beef patties and achieving that ideal balance of flavors and textures. Here’s a more detailed guide:
- Mixing the Patties: When combining the beef with the other ingredients, ensure everything is evenly distributed. Overmixing can make the patties tough, so mix just until everything is combined.
- Cooking the Patties on the Stove: For a juicy burger, don’t press down on the patties while they cook. This will prevent the juices from escaping and keep your burgers moist.
- Broiling the Cheese: Keep a close eye on the burgers while they’re under the broiler. The cheese can go from perfectly melted to burnt in a matter of seconds.
- Toasting the Buns: The buns should be toasted just enough to have a crispy surface but remain soft inside. The garlic butter adds extra flavor and helps create a golden crust.
- Resting the Patties: Allow the patties to rest for a few minutes after broiling. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring a juicy bite every time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Patties: Cooking the patties beyond 160°F can result in dry, tough burgers. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
- Not Cooling the Pepperoni Mixture: If you add the hot pepperoni and bell pepper mixture directly to the ground beef, it can start cooking the beef prematurely, leading to uneven cooking.
- Skipping the Broiler Step: The broiler step is crucial for melting the cheese and adding a bit of caramelization. Don’t skip it!
Serving and Presentation Tips
Presentation plays a significant role in how appealing your dish looks and tastes. Here are some tips:
- Arrange the Ingredients Neatly: Place the pepperoni slices carefully on top of the melted cheese for a visually appealing burger.
- Use Fresh Garnishes: Consider adding fresh basil or parsley on top of the cheese for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve with Sides: These Pizza Burgers pair well with sides like French fries, onion rings, or a fresh green salad.
How to Serve Pizza Burgers
Serving Pizza Burgers is straightforward but can be made special with a few simple touches:
- Plating: Serve the burgers on a large platter with a small bowl of warm pizza sauce for dipping. This allows your guests to enjoy extra sauce as they like.
- Add a Pick: Secure the burger with a toothpick or a small skewer topped with a cherry tomato or an olive for an elegant touch.
Presentation Ideas for Pizza Burgers
Make your Pizza Burgers the star of the meal with these presentation ideas:
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh basil or oregano on top of the melted cheese adds color and an extra burst of flavor.
- Use a Wooden Board: Serve the burgers on a rustic wooden board for a casual, yet stylish presentation.
- Serve with a Side of Crispy Fries: A small basket of crispy fries on the side makes for a classic burger pairing.
Pizza Burger Recipe Tips
- Prepping Ahead: You can prepare the beef patties in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This makes the cooking process quicker when you’re ready to serve.
- Freezing Patties: If you want to freeze the patties, do so without the cheese and sauce. Wrap them individually in parchment paper and store them in an airtight container or a freezer bag.
- Reheating: To reheat, warm the patties in the oven, then broil with cheese and toppings before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use store-bought pizza sauce?
A: Absolutely! Store-bought pizza sauce is convenient and works well in this recipe. Just be sure to choose a high-quality sauce for the best flavor.
Q: What’s the best cheese to use for Pizza Burgers?
A: Mozzarella is the classic choice, but you can also use provolone, cheddar, or a blend of Italian cheeses.
Q: Can I make these burgers on the grill?
A: Yes! You can grill the patties as directed in the recipe notes. Just be sure to cook them to the correct internal temperature and melt the cheese using the residual heat with the grill lid closed.
Q: How do I prevent the burgers from becoming too greasy?
A: Using lean ground beef helps reduce greasiness. Additionally, cooking the patties on a preheated skillet ensures they sear properly, which helps keep the juices in.
Q: Can I make these burgers gluten-free?
A: To make gluten-free Pizza Burgers, use gluten-free buns and ensure all your other ingredients, such as the pizza sauce and seasonings, are gluten-free.
Conclusion
There you have it—an easy and delicious Pizza Burgers recipe that’s sure to become a new favorite in your household. This dish combines the best of both worlds: the hearty, satisfying nature of a burger with the savory, cheesy goodness of a pizza. Whether you’re serving it up for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, these Pizza Burgers are guaranteed to please. Don’t forget to customize the recipe with your favorite ingredients and enjoy the endless possibilities that this versatile dish offers. Happy cooking!
PrintEasy Pizza Burgers Recipe
Elevate your burger game with these Pizza Burgers. Packed with lean ground beef, diced pepperoni, mozzarella, and Italian seasoning, these burgers offer the best of both worlds. Topped with pizza sauce and served on buttery toasted buns, they're perfect for a quick, flavorful meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American, Italian Fusion
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 1 pound Lean Ground Beef
- ⅓ cup Pepperoni (finely diced)
- ¼ cup Green Bell Pepper (finely diced)
- ¼ cup Parmesan Cheese (grated)
- ½ teaspoon Italian Seasoning
- ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
- ¼ cup Pizza Sauce (plus additional for dipping, if desired)
- 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese (shredded)
- ¼ cup Thin Pepperoni Slices
- 1 tablespoon Garlic Butter or Butter
- 4 Brioche Buns or Hamburger Buns
Instructions
- Prepare Patties: In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, diced pepperoni, green bell pepper, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Form into four patties.
- Cook Patties: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes per side, until browned and cooked through.
- Assemble: Top each patty with a spoonful of pizza sauce and shredded mozzarella. Cover the skillet briefly to melt the cheese.
- Toast Buns: Spread garlic butter on the buns and toast in the skillet until golden.
- Serve: Place the patties on the toasted buns, adding extra pizza sauce and pepperoni slices as desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the patties.
- You can also grill the patties for a smoky flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 980mg
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