This Pizza Burger is the ultimate mashup of two comfort food classics—juicy burgers and cheesy pizza. It’s made with seasoned beef patties, melty mozzarella, zesty marinara sauce, and your favorite pizza toppings, all stacked inside a toasted bun. When I’m in the mood for something fun, flavorful, and filling, this burger hits every note.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it combines the saucy, cheesy joy of pizza with the hearty satisfaction of a burger. It’s easy to make, totally customizable, and fun for kids and adults alike. Whether I’m firing up the grill or using a skillet indoors, this burger brings a new twist to classic cookout fare or a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Ground beef
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Garlic powder
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Onion powder
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Italian seasoning
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Salt and pepper
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Mozzarella cheese slices or shredded mozzarella
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Marinara or pizza sauce
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Burger buns
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Olive oil or butter (for toasting buns)
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Optional toppings: pepperoni-style veggie slices, sautéed mushrooms, olives, green peppers, fresh basil
Directions
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I mix ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, then form into burger patties.
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In a skillet or on a grill, I cook the patties over medium-high heat for about 4–5 minutes per side, or until fully cooked.
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In the last minute of cooking, I top each patty with mozzarella and cover to melt the cheese.
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While the patties cook, I toast the burger buns in a skillet with a little olive oil or butter until golden.
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I spread warm marinara sauce on the bottom bun, add the burger patty, and top with more sauce and extra toppings if I’m using them.
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I finish it with the top bun and serve hot.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 burgers and takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, including prep and cooking time.
Variations
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I sometimes use ground chicken or turkey for a leaner patty.
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Adding sautéed onions or mushrooms gives it extra flavor and texture.
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For a spicy version, I mix red pepper flakes into the marinara or add sliced jalapeños.
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I’ve used ciabatta or garlic bread as the bun for a bolder twist.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftover patties and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I warm the patties in a skillet or microwave and re-toast the buns for best texture. I assemble the burgers fresh each time to keep them from getting soggy.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought pizza sauce?
Yes, I use either marinara or pizza sauce from a jar for convenience. I heat it up before spreading for the best flavor.
What kind of cheese works best?
Mozzarella gives the most classic pizza flavor, but I’ve also tried provolone and a blend of Italian cheeses with great results.
How do I keep the buns from getting soggy?
I toast the buns and don’t overload them with sauce. I also assemble the burgers just before eating.
Can I make these ahead of time?
I prepare the patties and toppings in advance, then cook and assemble when I’m ready to serve.
Are these good for kids?
Definitely. I let kids pick their favorite pizza toppings for their own burgers, and it turns dinner into a fun, build-your-own meal.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Pizza-Style Burgers are the best of both worlds—oozing with cheese, loaded with flavor, and perfect for pizza and burger lovers alike. Whether I’m serving them at a weekend BBQ or a weeknight dinner, they always deliver bold flavor and smiles all around.
Print
Cheesy Pizza-Style Burgers You’ll Crave All Week
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 burgers
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling or Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Cheesy Pizza-Style Burgers combine the gooey, saucy goodness of pizza with the savory satisfaction of a burger—featuring seasoned beef patties, marinara sauce, melty mozzarella, and all your favorite pizza toppings stacked inside a toasted bun. A crave-worthy dinner recipe that’s fun, fast, and packed with flavor!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese (or 1 cup shredded mozzarella)
- ½–¾ cup marinara or pizza sauce, warmed
- 4 burger buns
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for toasting buns)
- Optional toppings: pepperoni slices or veggie alternative, sautéed mushrooms, olives, green peppers, fresh basil
Instructions
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In a bowl, mix ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Form into 4 patties.
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Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Cook patties for 4–5 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through.
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In the final minute of cooking, top each patty with mozzarella and cover to melt.
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Meanwhile, toast the burger buns in a skillet with olive oil or butter until golden.
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Spread a spoonful of warmed marinara sauce on the bottom bun. Place the burger on top.
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Add more marinara and any desired toppings. Finish with the top bun and serve immediately.
Notes
- Ground turkey or chicken makes a great lean alternative.
- Ciabatta or garlic bread buns elevate the flavor.
- Add crushed red pepper to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Don’t overdo the sauce—just enough for flavor without sogginess.
- Great as a “build-your-own” meal for kids or picky eaters.
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