Pizza Burger

Introduction

Pizza Burger is the perfect mash-up of two all-time favorites, bringing together the juicy satisfaction of a classic burger with the bold, cheesy flavors of pizza. This recipe delivers everything you love about pizza, including melty mozzarella, savory pepperoni, and rich tomato sauce, layered over a well-seasoned beef patty and tucked inside a toasted bun. It is comfort food at its most fun and indulgent, ideal for casual dinners, game nights, or weekend cravings.

What makes the pizza burger especially appealing is how familiar yet exciting it feels. Each bite delivers nostalgia with a twist, combining the textures and flavors of both dishes seamlessly. I enjoy making this recipe when I want something hearty and playful that still feels homemade and satisfying. It is easy to customize, quick to prepare, and guaranteed to please anyone who loves bold, cheesy meals.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is quick, filling, and packed with flavor. It transforms simple burger ingredients into something exciting and indulgent. The pizza toppings melt beautifully over the patty, creating a juicy, cheesy burger with minimal effort. It is perfect for weeknight dinners and easily customizable for different tastes.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef forms the juicy, savory base of the burger and holds up well to rich toppings.

Burger buns provide structure and softness, especially when lightly toasted.

Mozzarella cheese delivers classic pizza-style melt and mild creaminess.

Pepperoni slices add salty, smoky flavor and a true pizza character.

Pizza sauce brings tangy tomato richness and ties the flavors together.

Italian seasoning enhances the beef with classic herb notes.

Garlic powder adds subtle depth to the patties.

Salt balances and sharpens all flavors.

Black pepper provides mild heat and seasoning.

Olive oil helps cook the patties evenly and prevents sticking.

Directions

In a bowl, combine ground beef with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Form into evenly sized patties.

Heat olive oil in a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the patties until well browned on both sides and cooked to your desired doneness.

Lower the heat and spoon pizza sauce over each patty. Top with mozzarella cheese and pepperoni slices. Cover the pan briefly to allow the cheese to melt fully.

Toast the burger buns lightly if desired. Place each pizza-style patty onto a bun and serve immediately while hot and melty.

Equipment needed

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful resultsy.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves four people. Preparation takes about 10 minutes, with a cooking time of approximately 15 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet or oven until warmed through. Assemble with fresh buns for best texture.

Variations and Customizations

Pizza Burgers are highly customizable. I have added sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives for extra pizza-style toppings. You can also swap mozzarella for provolone or a pizza cheese blend for deeper flavor.

For a spicy version, add crushed red pepper flakes or spicy pepperoni. Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef for a lighter option, adjusting seasoning as needed. You can also turn this into an open-faced burger by serving the patty on a toasted English muffin or garlic bread.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

This dish is high in protein and contains dairy and gluten. It is rich and filling, making it best enjoyed as an occasional comfort meal. Using lean meat and lighter cheese can slightly reduce richness.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Do not overwork the meat
This keeps the burgers juicy.

Melt cheese gently
Lower heat prevents burning.

Toast the buns
This improves texture and prevents sogginess.

Serve immediately
Pizza burgers are best hot and fresh.

FAQs

Can I grill these instead of pan-frying

Yes, grilling works very well.

What cheese works best

Mozzarella or provolone are ideal.

Can I make these ahead of time

Cook patties ahead, assemble just before serving.

Is pizza sauce necessary

It provides the signature pizza flavor.

Can I use marinara sauce

Yes, marinara works well.

Are these kid-friendly

Yes, they are very popular with kids.

Can I make them spicy

Add chili flakes or spicy pepperoni.

Can I freeze the patties

Yes, freeze cooked patties without toppings.

What sides pair well

Fries, salad, or roasted vegetables.

Can I use slider buns

Yes, for mini pizza burgers.

Conclusion

Pizza Burger is a bold, comforting recipe that combines the best elements of pizza and burgers into one irresistible meal. With juicy patties, melty cheese, and classic pizza flavors, it is an easy, satisfying dish that delivers fun and flavor in every bite.

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