Pin
Some nights you just need something extra gooey and totally easy to make. These classic throwback pizza burgers are packed with the best flavors of pizza, squeezed into a super fast meal. You get all that melty goodness in a sandwich that's always the first thing gone on those fun busy evenings.
I whipped these up for my kids the first dreary afternoon it poured, and now they can't get enough whenever it's cold out. It's become our go to quick pizza night, minus all the cleanup.
Tasty Ingredients
- Burger buns: grab some soft fresh buns, white or wheat, either one does the trick
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: for that punchy cheesy top, shred it yourself for best melt
- Pizza sauce: gives you that classic tang and savory feel, check the label for less sugar
- Italian seasoning: tosses in those bold pizza flavors, look for extra oregano and basil
- Ground beef: the heart of it all with meaty bites, choose freshly ground for best taste
Cheese Thoughts
I like using sharp cheddar for a bigger flavor but if you want stretchy cheese pulls go for mozzarella—makes it just like a slice from your favorite spot
Simple How-To
- Finish and Serve:
- If you want, pop the tops on. Let them sit just long enough that grabbing one won’t burn your hands, then dive in while they’re still gooey and hot
- Bake:
- Slide everything into the center of your oven and bake around twelve minutes until cheese is melted and bubbles up, with golden crispy edges
- Assemble Pizza Burgers:
- Spoon out the beef mix on each bun half, spread right to the sides for max flavor. Top with loads of cheddar for major melt
- Prep the Buns:
- Set bun halves cut side up on a baking sheet, so toppings toast the bread underneath and it stays crisp
- Season and Simmer:
- Sprinkle Italian seasoning over the beef, mix well. Let those spices get happy in the fat, then pour in pizza sauce. Cook a bit more til a little thicker so your bread won't turn soggy
- Brown the Beef:
- Place ground beef in a skillet on medium-high, chop it apart so it browns all over. Once there’s no pink left, drain the fat off to keep things less greasy but super rich
Pin
Honestly, nothing beats watching the cheese sizzle and brown as these bake. Reminds me of waiting in the kitchen as a kid for mom to serve that cheesy treat on a Saturday. Makes me feel like a cartoon morning every bite.
Easy Storage
These keep well in a sealed container in your fridge for three days or so. For less soggy bread, stick some parchment or paper towel between layers. Warm them back up in the oven or toaster so the cheese melts again without getting dry
Swap Options
Want lighter? Try ground turkey. Ditch the meat and use seasoned mushrooms or lentils for a veggie spin. Marinara sauce works if that's all you have, just throw in a little more Italian herbs. Mozzarella, provolone, or any shredded blend melt like a dream
How to Serve
Load up your meal with something green like a crunchy salad or roasted broccoli. If you want simple sides for the kids, carrot sticks or oven fries are perfect. Add anything you love right on top before you add cheese—pepperoni, olives, peppers—make it your own and wow your guests
Timeless Favorite
These pizza burgers were always a go-to at diner counters and schools way back in the seventies and eighties. Two favorite foods together in one hot sandwich. Every family seems to have their version. Switch up toppings or slip in a spicy sauce to make yours stand out
FAQs About the Recipe
- → Which cheese melts best here?
Mozzarella gets gooey and stretchy, but sharp cheddar packs in more flavor. Or toss both on for extra cheesy goodness.
- → What toppings can I throw on?
Go wild with roasted veggies, extra meat like pepperoni or sausage, or sliced olives. Make it your own.
- → Tips for storing leftovers?
After they cool down, put your pizza burgers in a tight-sealing container. Stash them in the fridge up to 3 days. Pop them back in the oven next time to keep that crispy bite.
- → Something else I can use if I don’t have pizza sauce?
Use any tomato sauce, jarred marinara, or homemade sauce with some Italian seasoning stirred in. It all works.
- → Can I prep these early?
For sure! Make the beef filling ahead and chill it. Just put the sandwiches together and bake right before you want to eat so the cheese is super gooey.
- → Do kids usually like these?
They sure do! Cheesy and saucy is always popular. Let them add their favorite toppings to make it extra fun.