Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 16-24 slices pepperoni
• 1/2 cup pizza sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 hamburger buns, split and toasted
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Steps to Make Pizza Burger Melts

1. Prepare the Beef Patties

1. Season the Ground Beef: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until the seasonings are evenly distributed, but be careful not to overmix, as this can make the burgers tough.
2. Form Patties: Divide the seasoned ground beef into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty slightly larger than the hamburger bun, as they will shrink while cooking.

2. Cook the Patties

1. Heat a Skillet or Grill: Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat or heat a grill to medium-high.
2. Cook the Patties: Place the beef patties on the skillet or grill and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness. Internal temperature should reach at least 160°F (71°C) for fully cooked beef.
3. Top with Pepperoni: Once the patties are cooked, place 4-6 slices of pepperoni on each patty, allowing the pepperoni to warm up slightly. Set the patties aside.

3. Assemble the Pizza Burgers

1. Prepare the Buns: Place the split and toasted hamburger buns on a baking sheet.
2. Add Pizza Sauce: Spread about 2 tablespoons of pizza sauce on the bottom half of each bun, adding more if desired.
3. Add the Beef Patties: Place a cooked beef patty with pepperoni on each prepared bun.
4. Top with Mozzarella Cheese: Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese over each patty, ensuring it covers both the beef and pepperoni.

4. Melt the Cheese

1. Broil the Burgers: Place the baking sheet under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
2. Assemble and Serve: Place the top half of each bun on the burger, and serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 520 kcal
• Fat: 33g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

FAQ

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, mozzarella works well for the classic pizza flavor, but you can also use provolone, cheddar, or a blend of Italian cheeses for variation.

2. Can I make these burgers on the grill?
Absolutely! Cooking the patties on the grill adds a nice smoky flavor. You can assemble and broil the burgers indoors, or carefully place them on the grill until the cheese melts.

3. Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a healthier alternative. Just be sure to cook poultry to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.

4. Can I make these pizza burger melts gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the hamburger buns with gluten-free buns, and check the labels of all other ingredients to ensure they’re gluten-free.

Tips for the Best Pizza Burger Melts

1. Toast the Buns: Toasting the buns adds a delicious crunch and prevents them from getting soggy from the pizza sauce.
2. Add Fresh Basil: For an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle fresh basil or oregano on top of the melted cheese just before serving.
3. Customize with Toppings: Add extras like sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions for a true “supreme pizza” experience.
4. Control the Spice: If you like a little heat, add red pepper flakes to the pizza sauce or use spicy pepperoni.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftover patties and buns separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the patties and assemble with fresh toppings when ready to enjoy.
• Freezing: You can freeze cooked beef patties by wrapping them individually and storing them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Broil the cheese on top of the patty for a fresh, melted finish.

Conclusion

Pizza Burger Melts bring the best of both worlds together, combining the rich, meaty flavor of a burger with the melty, savory goodness of pizza. This recipe is simple enough for weeknight dinners but delicious enough for a special treat on weekends. With seasoned beef, crispy pepperoni, pizza sauce, and plenty of mozzarella, these pizza burgers are sure to please everyone at the table. Perfect for gatherings, family meals, or game days, they’re a fun and delicious twist on traditional burgers that everyone will love. Enjoy each cheesy, saucy bite and savor the flavors of pizza in burger form!