Italian Pizza Burgers

Introduction

Italian Pizza Burgers combine the juicy, savory flavor of a traditional hamburger with the cheesy, saucy, and herbaceous goodness of a pizza. These fusion burgers are perfect for a casual dinner, weekend BBQ, or a fun family meal that satisfies both pizza and burger cravings in one delicious bite.

Ingredients

For the Burger Patties:

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (85% lean)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Toppings:

• 1 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup sliced pepperoni (optional)
• Fresh basil leaves (optional)
• Burger buns (4, preferably toasted)
• Olive oil or butter (for toasting buns)

Instructions

1. Make the Burger Patties:
   In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix. Form into 4 equal patties.
2. Cook the Patties:
   Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook patties for 4–5 minutes per side or until they reach your desired doneness.
3. Add Sauce and Cheese:
   In the last minute of cooking, spoon 2–3 tablespoons of pizza sauce onto each patty, then sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top. Cover with a lid for 1–2 minutes to melt the cheese.
4. Toast the Buns (optional but recommended):
   Spread a little butter or brush olive oil on the inside of the buns and toast them in a skillet or on the grill until golden.
5. Assemble the Burgers:
   Place each patty on a toasted bottom bun, add optional pepperoni or fresh basil, and top with the upper bun. Serve hot.

Description

These Italian Pizza Burgers are the ultimate comfort food mashup. The herbed beef patties are topped with zesty pizza sauce and gooey mozzarella, bringing the flavors of a pizzeria right into your hands. It’s a handheld feast that’s juicy, cheesy, and packed with bold Italian flavor.

Tips

• Use fresh mozzarella for a creamier texture.
• Add sautéed mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers for more pizza flair.
• Use ciabatta rolls for an authentic Italian-style bun.
• Let the patties rest for 3–5 minutes before assembling to keep juices locked in.

Variations

• Chicken Pizza Burgers: Use ground chicken instead of beef and add a sprinkle of red chili flakes.
• Vegetarian Option: Use a plant-based patty or grilled portobello mushroom cap.
• Spicy Version: Add hot Italian sausage to the ground beef or drizzle with chili oil.
• Margherita Style: Use fresh tomatoes, basil, and slices of mozzarella instead of shredded.

Correction

If the patties fall apart, try adding 1 egg or 2 tbsp of breadcrumbs to help bind the mixture. If the burger is too dry, reduce cook time slightly or use beef with slightly higher fat content (80/20).

Enjoy

Serve your Italian Pizza Burgers with a side of garlic fries or a crisp Caesar salad and a cold Italian soda or beer. Buon appetito!