Pizza Burgers: A Delicious Mashup

Introduction

There’s something undeniably satisfying about a meal that combines two of the most beloved foods: pizza and burgers. Pizza burgers are a creative twist on the classic cheeseburger, offering all the flavors of a pizza tucked between a toasted bun. Recently, I tried making these for a family dinner, and they were an instant hit! The kids loved the gooey cheese and pepperoni, while the adults appreciated the hearty, flavorful patties. It’s a fun and filling meal that can easily become a regular in our household. Let’s dive into how you can recreate this delicious dish at home!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (80% lean / 20% fat)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 4 hamburger buns, split and toasted
• ½ cup pizza sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 16-24 slices pepperoni

Instructions

Prepare Patties

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined, but be careful not to overwork the meat, as this can lead to tough burgers.
2. Shape the mixture into 4 equal patties. Let them rest for a few minutes to help them hold their shape during cooking.

Toast Buns

3. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
4. Arrange the hamburger buns, cut side up, on a baking sheet. Place them under the broiler until golden brown, watching closely to prevent burning.
5. Once toasted, remove the top halves and set aside.

Grill Patties

6. Place the patties on the preheated grill. Grill for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and reaching an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

Assemble Bottom Buns

7. While the burgers are cooking, warm the pizza sauce over low heat.
8. Spread half of the sauce on the bottom buns. Top with half of the mozzarella cheese and arrange a layer of pepperoni slices.
9. Broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts and is bubbly.

Assemble and Broil

10. Once the patties are grilled, place them on the prepared bottom buns. Top each patty with the remaining pizza sauce, mozzarella, and a few more slices of pepperoni.
11. Return the assembled burgers to the broiler until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
12. Add the top bun halves and serve immediately.

Serve and Enjoy

13. Serve the pizza burgers hot, and enjoy this delightful mashup with your family and friends!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: 693 kcal

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve hot, straight from the grill or broiler.
• Pair with:
• A side of crispy fries
• A fresh garden salad
• Garlic bread for extra indulgence
• Your favorite dipping sauces like ranch or marinara

Additional Tips

1. Use Leaner Meat: For a healthier option, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
2. Add Veggies: For added flavor and nutrition, mix in finely chopped bell peppers or onions into the beef mixture.
3. Experiment with Cheese: Try using a blend of cheeses, such as provolone or cheddar, for a different flavor profile.
4. Make It Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce or season the beef for an extra kick.
5. Prep Ahead: You can make the patties ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to grill.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based alternative, or use black beans and quinoa for a hearty texture.
• BBQ Pizza Burgers: Instead of pizza sauce, use your favorite BBQ sauce, and top with cheddar cheese and crispy onion rings.
• Stuffed Pizza Burgers: Create a pocket in the patties and stuff them with mozzarella cheese before grilling for an ooey-gooey surprise.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of potato wedges or sweet potato fries for a satisfying meal.
• Pair with a light coleslaw or a Caesar salad to balance the richness of the burger.
• Offer a variety of condiments like spicy mustard or aioli for added flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked patties for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Storage: Cooked pizza burgers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?

• Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar or provolone.

1. How can I make these burgers spicier?

• Add crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture or use spicy pepperoni.

1. Can I prepare the patties ahead of time?

• Absolutely! You can make the patties and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook.

1. What can I substitute for hamburger buns?

• You can use ciabatta rolls, garlic bread, or even portobello mushrooms for a low-carb option.

1. How long do these burgers take to cook?

• Each patty takes about 4-5 minutes per side on the grill.

1. Can I bake these burgers instead of grilling?

• Yes, you can bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes.

1. What dipping sauces go well with pizza burgers?

• Marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or even a spicy aioli are great options.

1. Can I add vegetables to the patties?

• Yes, finely chopped vegetables like onions or peppers can be mixed into the beef for added flavor.

1. How do I know when the burgers are done?

• Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 160°F (71°C).

1. Can I make these burgers gluten-free?
   • Yes, just use gluten-free buns and breadcrumbs.

Conclusion

Pizza burgers are a fun and delicious way to combine two favorites into one satisfying meal. With their cheesy goodness and savory flavors, they are perfect for any gathering or simply a cozy family dinner. Easy to prepare and customizable, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Try making these delightful burgers tonight, and enjoy the delightful flavors of pizza in a whole new way!

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