These Old School Pizza Burgers are a fun twist on your typical burger, blending the irresistible flavors of pizza with the juiciness of a perfectly grilled patty. The rich marinara sauce, melted mozzarella, and fresh basil create an explosion of flavor that will have you craving more.
This dish is perfect for casual weeknight dinners, BBQs, or a fun twist on a family pizza night. It’s also incredibly versatile; switch up the toppings to suit your preferences, and you can even make them vegetarian by swapping in veggie patties or a portobello mushroom. These burgers are sure to impress anyone who loves pizza and burgers alike!
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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4 hamburger buns
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4 beef patties (or vegetarian patties)
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1/2 cup marinara sauce
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1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
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1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
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Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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Preheat your grill or stovetop skillet over medium heat.
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Season the beef patties with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
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Grill or cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked to your desired doneness.
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While the patties are cooking, slice the hamburger buns and lightly toast them on the grill or in a toaster.
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Once the patties are cooked, top each patty with a spoonful of marinara sauce and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.
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Close the grill lid and let the cheese melt for 1-2 minutes.
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Remove the patties from the grill, place each on a toasted bun, and top with parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if desired), and a fresh basil leaf.
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Serve immediately and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Introduction to Old School Pizza Burgers
Old School Pizza Burgers bring together two of the most beloved comfort foods: pizza and burgers. This delightful dish is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re having a casual family dinner, hosting a backyard BBQ, or just looking to switch things up from your regular burger routine. Imagine the savory, cheesy goodness of a pizza layered over a juicy beef patty, all nestled between a toasted burger bun. The result is an irresistible flavor combination that satisfies both pizza and burger cravings in one bite.
What makes these Pizza Burgers truly special is the ease with which they come together. Unlike traditional pizza, which requires a dough crust and multiple steps, these burgers are quick to assemble and cook, making them an ideal weeknight meal or a fun weekend treat. The marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning bring a pizza-like experience to the classic burger in a fun, accessible way.
The Perfect Fusion of Pizza and Burgers
The concept of combining pizza and burgers isn’t new, but Old School Pizza Burgers take this fusion to the next level. By using the best aspects of both foods, this dish offers a rich, indulgent experience that’s sure to impress. The beef patty provides the hearty, savory base, while the marinara sauce mimics the pizza’s sauce, giving each bite a tangy and rich flavor. The mozzarella cheese melts beautifully over the patty, creating that classic pizza “cheese pull” that everyone loves. Topped with parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and fresh basil, these pizza burgers are a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone in the family will enjoy.
One of the standout features of this recipe is its versatility. While the classic version uses beef patties, you can easily swap in chicken, turkey, or even a veggie burger for those with dietary restrictions or preferences. The marinara sauce can also be customized—whether you prefer a spicier option or a smoother, milder sauce, you can make it your own. Adding or removing toppings like mushrooms, olives, or bell peppers also allows you to personalize each pizza burger to suit your taste.
Why You Should Try Old School Pizza Burgers
If you love both pizza and burgers, this recipe is a no-brainer. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the flavors of pizza without the need for a pizza stone or oven. Pizza Burgers offer a quick alternative to making a traditional pizza, especially if you’re craving those pizza flavors but don’t want to deal with dough preparation or a lengthy cooking time.
Another reason to try this recipe is its adaptability. While it’s a perfect dish for casual meals, it’s also impressive enough to serve at a gathering. Whether you’re hosting a cookout or having friends over for game night, these pizza burgers will be a hit. You can even set up a “build-your-own” pizza burger station, where guests can choose their favorite toppings and customize their burgers before cooking. This interactive twist adds a fun element to your gathering while ensuring that everyone gets a burger exactly to their liking.
The Ideal Side Dishes to Pair with Pizza Burgers
Old School Pizza Burgers are filling enough to stand on their own, but you can take your meal to the next level by serving them with delicious side dishes. Classic accompaniments like crispy fries or onion rings are always a winner. For a healthier option, a side salad with a zesty vinaigrette or roasted vegetables can balance the richness of the burgers.
If you want to keep the pizza theme going, consider serving a side of garlic bread or a simple caprese salad. The warm, garlicky bread will pair perfectly with the cheesy, saucy pizza burger, while the caprese salad provides a fresh, bright contrast to the heavy flavors of the main dish. You could also go for a light pasta dish like a simple spaghetti aglio e olio, which complements the flavors of the pizza burger without overwhelming them.
Customization Ideas for Your Pizza Burgers
As mentioned earlier, Old School Pizza Burgers are incredibly versatile. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability, allowing you to swap ingredients based on personal preferences or dietary needs. Here are some ideas to customize your pizza burgers:
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Burger Patties: If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey or chicken patties work well in place of beef. For vegetarians, try using veggie patties or portobello mushrooms as the base. The meaty texture of mushrooms, especially when grilled, mimics the hearty feel of a beef patty.
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Cheese Options: While mozzarella and parmesan are the classic choices, you can experiment with other cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or even a spicy pepper jack for an extra kick. You can also add a blend of different cheeses for a more complex flavor profile.
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Sauce Variations: While marinara is the traditional choice, you can easily swap in other sauces like pesto for a fresh, herbaceous twist or a spicy arrabbiata sauce for a bolder, hotter flavor. Alternatively, you could use a creamy white sauce or even a barbecue sauce for a unique take on the classic.
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Toppings and Extras: While fresh basil is a wonderful garnish, you can also try adding other pizza-inspired toppings, such as sliced pepperoni, sautéed mushrooms, olives, or even jalapeños for a spicy punch. Customize your toppings to create the ultimate pizza burger experience that satisfies your cravings.
Making the Most of Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, don’t worry—the Old School Pizza Burger is just as delicious the next day. You can store the cooked patties and toppings separately in airtight containers in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat the patties in the microwave or on the stovetop. Toast the buns again for that fresh crunch, then reassemble the pizza burgers with fresh marinara sauce, cheese, and any additional toppings.
These burgers can also be transformed into a whole new meal the next day. Consider turning them into a pizza burger casserole by layering the ingredients in a baking dish and baking until bubbly and golden. This makes for an easy lunch or dinner, and you can enjoy the same great flavors in a slightly different format.
Why Old School Pizza Burgers are a Must-Try
Old School Pizza Burgers are a perfect combination of two foods that most people can’t resist: pizza and burgers. Whether you’re a pizza lover, a burger fan, or someone who simply enjoys delicious, hearty meals, these pizza burgers deliver on flavor and convenience. They offer the comforting familiarity of a classic cheeseburger, but with a fun, pizza-inspired twist that makes them stand out from the crowd.
The appeal of this dish lies in its simplicity and versatility. You don’t need to be a skilled chef to make these burgers, but they still have the power to impress anyone who takes a bite. The ingredients are easily customizable, and you can adjust the recipe to suit your taste preferences, dietary restrictions, or the ingredients you have on hand. The result is always a delicious and satisfying meal that brings joy to your taste buds.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Old School Pizza Burgers are an easy, delicious, and fun twist on traditional burgers. They combine the best parts of two beloved foods—pizza and burgers—into one mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a unique dish to serve at a gathering, these pizza burgers are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
With the option to customize the recipe to your liking, you can experiment with different cheeses, sauces, and toppings to create a pizza burger that’s uniquely yours. Plus, the dish is so simple to make that you don’t have to be a culinary expert to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal. Old School Pizza Burgers are an excellent way to enjoy the best of both worlds in one bite, making them an essential recipe to add to your culinary repertoire.