Cheesy Italian Pizza Burgers

This flavor-packed fusion transforms two beloved classics into one incredible handheld meal. My Cheesy Italian Pizza Burgers combine the juicy satisfaction of a perfect burger with all your favorite pizza toppings for a dinner that satisfies multiple cravings at once.

I created these burgers during a rainy weekend when my family couldn't decide between ordering pizza or grilling burgers. The compromise became an instant hit and now appears on our dinner rotation at least twice a month.

• Ground beef provides the perfect base use 80/20 for the juiciest results
• Italian seasoning infuses classic pizza herb flavors throughout the meat
• Marinara sauce acts as your pizza sauce foundation choose a high quality jar or use homemade
• Mozzarella cheese creates that essential melty pizza experience fresh shredded melts better than pre packaged
• Hamburger buns serve as your crust brioche adds richness but any style works
• Pizza toppings allow for personalization pepperoni olives and bell peppers are family favorites

How To Make Cheesy Italian Pizza Burgers

Season the meat

Combine ground beef with Italian seasoning salt and pepper in a large bowl. Use your hands to gently mix just until ingredients are incorporated. Overmixing will result in tough burgers so handle with care until everything is just combined.

Form the patties

Divide your seasoned meat into four equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty approximately 1.5 cm thick making a slight depression in the center with your thumb. This prevents the burger from puffing up in the middle during cooking ensuring even thickness.

Cook to perfection

Heat your skillet or grill pan over medium high heat until hot but not smoking. Place patties in the pan leaving space between them and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side. For medium doneness look for an internal temperature of 160°F or 71°C.

Create the pizza experience

While patties finish cooking spoon marinara sauce generously over each one. Layer shredded mozzarella on top followed by your choice of pizza toppings. Cover the pan with a lid to create steam which melts the cheese perfectly in just 2 to 3 minutes.

Toast and assemble

Meanwhile split hamburger buns and toast the cut sides in a separate pan until golden brown. This prevents soggy buns and adds textural contrast. Place completed pizza burger patties on the toasted buns and serve immediately while cheese is still gloriously melty.

The Italian seasoning is my secret weapon in this recipe. My grandmother always insisted that herbs should be rubbed between your palms before adding to release their essential oils. This small step makes an enormous difference in flavor intensity throughout the meat.

Storage Tips

These pizza burgers can be refrigerated for up to three days in an airtight container. For best results store the patties separately from the buns and reassemble after reheating. To reheat place patties in a covered skillet over medium low heat until warmed through and cheese is melted again. Microwaving works in a pinch but may make the meat tougher.

Make It Your Own

The beauty of these burgers is their adaptability. Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version just add a tablespoon of olive oil to the meat mixture to maintain juiciness. For a vegetarian option substitute portobello mushroom caps or plant based meat alternatives. The pizza concept works beautifully with any base.

Perfect Pairings

These pizza burgers deserve worthy sidekicks. Garlic parmesan fries complement the Italian flavors perfectly while a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil provides a bright counterpoint to the rich burgers. For a complete feast serve with mozzarella sticks or fried zucchini coins.

Family Friendly Fun

Turn burger night into an interactive experience by setting up a topping bar. Prepare small bowls of various pizza toppings and let everyone customize their own creation. This has become a Friday tradition in our house where even the pickiest eaters get excited about dinner. The combinations created are sometimes unusual but always delicious.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative. Add 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil to the meat mixture to maintain moisture, as turkey has less fat than beef. You may also want to increase the Italian seasoning slightly for extra flavor.

→ What are the best pizza toppings to use?

Classic options include pepperoni, sliced olives, and bell peppers, but feel free to get creative! Mushrooms, onions, pineapple, cooked bacon, or even anchovies work great. Just ensure toppings are thinly sliced or pre-cooked if needed for proper melting.

→ How do I know when the burgers are cooked properly?

For food safety, beef burgers should reach an internal temperature of 71°C (160°F). Without a thermometer, look for juices running clear with no pink in the center. Cooking times vary based on thickness, but typically 3-4 minutes per side on medium-high heat works well.

→ Can I make these burgers ahead of time?

You can prepare the patties up to 24 hours in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator. For best results, add the marinara sauce, cheese, and toppings just before serving to maintain proper texture and prevent soggy buns.

→ What sides pair well with these burgers?

Classic sides like french fries or potato chips work perfectly. For a lighter option, try a simple green salad with Italian dressing. Garlic bread or mozzarella sticks complement the Italian flavors, while a side of marinara sauce makes a great dipping option.

→ Can I grill these instead of cooking in a pan?

Absolutely! Grill the patties over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side. Once cooked, move to indirect heat, add the marinara, cheese and toppings, then close the grill lid to melt the cheese. This adds a wonderful smoky flavor to the burgers.