This Italian Pizza Burger recipe combines the best of both worlds: the classic juicy burger and the cheesy, savory goodness of pizza. Imagine a perfectly seasoned beef patty topped with rich marinara sauce, melted mozzarella, and pepperoni slices on a toasted bun—it’s the ultimate fusion comfort food. With the addition of Italian seasoning, garlic, and onion powder, these burgers capture the flavors of your favorite pizzeria. Perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or game-day spreads, these burgers will satisfy pizza and burger lovers alike!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Burgers:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Assembly:

• 4 hamburger buns
• Olive oil, for toasting buns
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup pepperoni slices
• Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Burger Patties

1. Season the Ground Beef: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until seasonings are evenly incorporated.
2. Shape the Patties: Divide the seasoned beef into four equal portions, then shape each portion into a patty about 1/2 inch thick. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty to help it cook evenly and prevent it from puffing up in the middle.

Step 2: Cook the Burger Patties

1. Preheat a Grill or Skillet: Heat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates or add a small amount of oil to the skillet.
2. Cook the Patties: Place the patties on the grill or skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired doneness (about 160°F for well-done beef).
3. Top with Marinara Sauce and Cheese: During the last minute of cooking, spoon about 2 tablespoons of marinara sauce onto each patty and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese. Cover the grill or skillet briefly to allow the cheese to melt.

Step 3: Toast the Buns

1. Brush with Olive Oil: Lightly brush the cut sides of the hamburger buns with olive oil.
2. Toast the Buns: Place the buns cut-side down on the grill or skillet for about 1 minute, or until golden and lightly crisp.

Step 4: Assemble the Pizza Burgers

1. Place the Patties on the Buns: Transfer each cooked patty to the bottom half of a toasted bun.
2. Add the Pepperoni and Basil: Layer 3-4 pepperoni slices on top of each patty for a classic pizza touch. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
3. Finish with the Top Bun: Place the top half of each bun on the assembled burger.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per Serving, 1 Burger):

• Calories: 530 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Protein: 31g
• Fat: 27g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Cholesterol: 90mg
• Sodium: 950mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 4g

(Note: Nutrition values may vary depending on brands and portion sizes.)

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of ground meat?

• Yes, you can use ground chicken or turkey as a leaner option. Just be aware that these meats cook a bit faster than ground beef, so keep an eye on the patties to prevent them from drying out.

2. What kind of marinara sauce works best?

• A simple marinara or pizza sauce with classic Italian flavors is ideal. You can use store-bought or homemade sauce, whichever you prefer.

3. Can I make these burgers on a stovetop if I don’t have a grill?

• Absolutely! A cast-iron skillet or non-stick skillet works great on the stovetop. Follow the same cooking instructions, adjusting the time as needed.

4. What can I substitute for pepperoni?

• If you prefer a less spicy option, use sliced salami or Canadian bacon. You can also omit it altogether if you’re looking for a simpler pizza flavor.

5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

• Yes! Just swap out the hamburger buns for gluten-free buns, and check that your marinara sauce is gluten-free as well.

Tips for Success

• Seasoning the Meat: Avoid over-mixing the meat mixture to keep the patties tender. Gently incorporate the spices for a flavorful bite without a dense texture.
• Indent the Patties: Making a slight dimple in the center of each patty helps them cook evenly and prevents puffing.
• Preventing Soggy Buns: Toasting the buns adds a nice crunch and prevents them from getting soggy from the marinara sauce.
• Cheese Choices: For a richer taste, try adding a slice of provolone or Parmesan cheese along with the mozzarella.
• Extra Toppings: Customize your pizza burger with toppings like sliced olives, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for added flavor.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the buns and toppings separate to avoid sogginess.
• Reheating: Reheat the patties in a skillet or microwave. If the cheese and marinara sauce have dried out slightly, add a fresh layer of sauce and cheese before reheating.
• Freezing: You can freeze cooked patties for up to 2 months. Wrap each patty individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

These Italian Pizza Burgers are a delicious twist on two iconic comfort foods. With juicy, seasoned beef, marinara sauce, melty cheese, and pepperoni on a toasted bun, this recipe delivers all the flavors of a pizza in burger form. Perfect for family dinners, barbecues, or anytime you want to switch up your burger game, this fusion recipe will be a hit. Add your favorite pizza toppings, garnish with fresh basil, and enjoy these tasty, hearty burgers. Buon appetito!