Pizza Burger

Pizza burgers are the ultimate fusion of two of my all-time favorite comfort foods: cheesy, saucy pizza and juicy, flavorful burgers. This hearty dish layers all the bold flavors of a classic pizza—gooey mozzarella, zesty marinara, and savory pepperoni—onto a perfectly grilled beef patty, all sandwiched in a soft, toasted bun. It’s indulgent, satisfying, and completely customizable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe brings the best of both worlds together—no need to choose between pizza or burgers anymore. The melty cheese and marinara sauce add so much flavor, and it’s incredibly fun to make for a weekend treat, cookouts, or game nights. It’s quick to throw together, and the taste is always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef

• Italian seasoning

• Garlic powder

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Mozzarella cheese (sliced or shredded)

• Marinara or pizza sauce

• Pepperoni slices

• Hamburger buns

• Butter (for toasting buns)

• Optional toppings: sautéed onions, green peppers, mushrooms, or olives

Directions

1. I start by mixing the ground beef with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. I form the mixture into burger patties.

2. Then I grill or pan-fry the patties over medium-high heat until they’re cooked to my desired doneness.

3. While the patties cook, I toast the buns in a skillet with a little butter until golden brown.

4. Once the patties are almost done, I top each one with marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and pepperoni slices. I cover the pan to let the cheese melt.

5. Finally, I assemble the burgers: bun, saucy cheesy patty, extra toppings if I want, and top bun. That’s it—time to dig in!

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 pizza burgers.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I swap the beef patties for turkey or chicken for a lighter version. If I want to go vegetarian, I use a plant-based burger and skip the pepperoni, or replace it with grilled mushrooms or roasted red peppers. I also like switching up the cheese—provolone or cheddar works great too.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. I usually keep the buns and toppings separate until I’m ready to eat, so everything stays fresh and doesn’t get soggy.

FAQs

How do I prevent the buns from getting soggy?

I toast the buns well and add the sauce right before serving. That way, they stay crisp and hold up better.

Can I bake these instead of using a skillet or grill?

Yes, I can bake the patties at 400°F (200°C) for about 15–20 minutes, then add the sauce, cheese, and pepperoni at the end and broil until the cheese melts.

What kind of sauce works best?

I like using a thick marinara or pizza sauce with bold flavor. A chunky or watery sauce can make the burger messy.

Can I freeze pizza burgers?

I freeze the cooked patties (without toppings) for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, I thaw and reheat, then add the sauce and cheese.

What sides go well with pizza burgers?

I love serving them with fries, onion rings, or a crisp green salad. Garlic bread or mozzarella sticks are fun options too.

Conclusion

Pizza burgers are the perfect mash-up meal when I’m craving something over-the-top and comforting. They’re easy to make, bursting with flavor, and endlessly customizable. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a weekend indulgence, this recipe never disappoints.