Old School Pizza Burgers are a delicious fusion of two favorites: burgers and pizza! These juicy burgers are seasoned with Italian herbs, grilled to perfection, and topped with marinara sauce, melted mozzarella cheese, and your favorite pizza toppings like pepperoni, olives, or bell peppers. Served on toasted hamburger buns, these burgers are perfect for a quick and satisfying meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or just want to switch things up for burger night, these pizza burgers are sure to be a hit.
Old School Pizza Burgers combine the best of both worlds—juicy burgers and the savory flavors of pizza. Perfect for family dinners or a fun weekend meal, these burgers are packed with Italian seasoning, topped with marinara sauce, melted mozzarella cheese, and your favorite pizza toppings like pepperoni or olives. Served on toasted hamburger buns, these pizza burgers are simple to make but deliver big on flavor, making them a hit every time!
INGREDIENTS
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef: The base of the burgers, giving them a rich, juicy texture.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Adds classic pizza flavors to the beef patties.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors.
- 4 hamburger buns: Provides a sturdy base for the pizza burgers, toasted to add texture.
- 1 cup (240ml) marinara sauce: Brings the pizza flavor to the burgers with a tangy, tomato-rich sauce.
- 1 1/2 cups (180g) shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully over the patties, creating a gooey, cheesy topping.
- Your favorite pizza toppings (e.g., pepperoni slices, sliced olives, sliced bell peppers): Customize your pizza burgers with your go-to toppings for added flavor and texture.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape them into burger patties.
- Step 2:
- Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the burger patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare to medium doneness. Adjust the cooking time based on your preference for doneness.
- Step 3:
- While the burgers are cooking, split the hamburger buns and toast them lightly on the grill or in a toaster until golden brown.
- Step 4:
- When the burger patties are almost done, top each patty with a generous spoonful of marinara sauce. Sprinkle a good amount of shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce, allowing it to melt and become bubbly.
- Step 5:
- Add your favorite pizza toppings to each patty, such as pepperoni slices, olives, or bell peppers. Cover the grill or skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is fully melted.
- Step 6:
- Place each pizza burger on a toasted hamburger bun and serve immediately. Enjoy the fusion of pizza and burger flavors in every bite!
Serving and Storage Tips
- Old School Pizza Burgers are best served hot and fresh, straight from the grill or skillet. The melted cheese and toasted buns create the perfect combination of textures and flavors.
- If you have leftovers, store the patties and buns separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the patties in a skillet or microwave, and toast the buns again before assembling.
- These pizza burgers pair perfectly with a side of fries, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Helpful Notes
- You can customize these pizza burgers by adding your favorite toppings like mushrooms, jalapeños, or even extra cheese for a more indulgent meal.
- For a healthier option, swap out the hamburger buns for whole wheat buns, or serve the patties over a bed of lettuce for a low-carb version.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ground beef mixture or use hot pepperoni as a topping.
Tips from well-known chefs
- Chef Bobby Flay: “When grilling burgers, always let the meat rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making for a juicier bite.”
- Chef Rachael Ray: “For an extra crispy bun, brush the inside with olive oil before toasting. It adds a nice texture and flavor to the burger.”
- Chef Giada De Laurentiis: “Try using fresh mozzarella for a creamier, more authentic pizza experience on top of your burgers.”