If you’ve ever been torn between the rich flavors of a pizza and the satisfying bite of a burger, then these homemade pizza burgers are the solution. This dish combines the best of both worlds – a juicy burger patty topped with melty cheese, tangy marinara sauce, and classic pizza toppings like pepperoni, mushrooms, and onions. Perfect for a casual dinner or a game day feast, these burgers are sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients for Homemade Pizza Burgers
To make these pizza burgers, you’ll need the following ingredients:
The Burger Patties:
- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
The Toppings:
- 4 slices of mozzarella or provolone cheese
- 1/2 cup marinara or pizza sauce
- 12 slices of pepperoni
- 1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms
- 1/2 cup sautéed onions
- Fresh basil or oregano (optional)
The Buns:
- 4 burger buns (try homemade brioche buns for extra flavor)
- Olive oil for brushing
Optional:
- Red pepper flakes
- Parmesan cheese for topping
Preparing the Perfect Pizza Burgers
The key to an excellent pizza burger is combining the right spices and cooking the patties to juicy perfection.
- Prepare the Burger Patties:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Form into 4 equal-sized patties, slightly pressing down the center to prevent them from puffing up during cooking.
- Cook the Patties:
- Heat a skillet or grill over medium heat and cook the patties for 4-5 minutes on each side, depending on your preferred level of doneness.
- In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add a slice of mozzarella or provolone cheese on top of each patty to melt.
If you’re looking for a quick side, consider serving these burgers with air fryer garlic parmesan fries to complement the pizza flavors.
Adding the Pizza Toppings
What makes these burgers stand out is the addition of your favorite pizza toppings. Here’s how to transform your burgers into pizza perfection:
- Sauté the Toppings:
- In a pan, sauté the mushrooms and onions with a bit of olive oil until they are golden and softened.
- Assemble the Burgers:
- Toast the burger buns, brushing them with olive oil for a crispy finish.
- Spread 2 tablespoons of marinara or pizza sauce on the bottom half of each bun.
- Place the cheese-topped burger patty on the sauced bun, then layer on 3 slices of pepperoni, sautéed mushrooms, and onions.
For an extra flavor boost, try adding a sprinkle of parmesan cheese or a dash of red pepper flakes for heat.
Homemade Brioche Buns for Extra Flavor
If you want to take these pizza burgers to the next level, consider making your own homemade brioche buns. The soft, buttery texture of brioche pairs perfectly with the savory toppings and juicy burger patty.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
These pizza burgers are versatile and can be customized with different toppings. Here are a few variations to try:
- Classic Margherita Style: Add fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil instead of pepperoni for a lighter version.
- Supreme Pizza Burger: Include sautéed bell peppers, olives, and even crumbled sausage for an extra hearty bite.
- Veggie Pizza Burger: Swap out the beef patty for a plant-based alternative and load up on vegetables like spinach, roasted red peppers, and zucchini.
For a fun twist, serve your pizza burgers with a side of air-fried onion rings to keep things crispy and delicious.
FAQs About Homemade Pizza Burgers
1. Can I make pizza burgers with a plant-based patty?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with your favorite plant-based burger patty, and it will still taste fantastic with all the pizza toppings.
2. What type of cheese works best for pizza burgers?
Mozzarella or provolone are great options because they melt beautifully and pair well with the pizza sauce. However, you can also try cheddar or gouda for a different flavor profile.
3. Can I use different pizza toppings on my burger?
Yes, you can add any of your favorite pizza toppings, like bacon, jalapeños, or even pineapple, depending on your personal taste.
4. How can I prevent my burger patties from shrinking?
To prevent patties from shrinking too much during cooking, make a slight indent in the center of each patty before cooking, and avoid over-handling the meat.