If you love the classic flavors of pizza but crave the satisfying bite of a burger, this Pizza Flavored Burgers Recipe is exactly what you need to try next. Juicy ground beef blended with Italian herbs, Parmesan, and rich mozzarella cheese creates a mouthwatering patty that’s bursting with the essence of your favorite pizza. Topped with marinara sauce and fresh basil, each bite feels like a perfect fusion of two all-time favorites. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a fun get-together, this recipe will bring smiles and satisfied appetites all around.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Pizza Flavored Burgers Recipe lies in its simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, from building layers of bold Italian flavors to adding juicy texture and vibrant color that makes every bite a delight.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty base that keeps the burger juicy and flavorful; lean ground turkey works well for a lighter alternative.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, nutty note that enhances the meat’s richness.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: The quintessential Italian herb that brings warmth and depth.
- 1 tsp dried basil: Bright and fragrant, it complements the oregano perfectly.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Infuses garlic’s unmistakable aroma without overpowering the patty.
- 1/2 tsp onion powder: Adds subtle sweetness and a foundation for flavor complexity.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that elevate all the other ingredients.
- 4 burger buns: Soft and toasty, the perfect cradle for your pizza-inspired creation.
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce: The tomato-based sauce brings authentic pizza zest and moisture.
- 4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that signature gooey pizza feel; shredded cheese can be used too.
- Fresh basil leaves (optional): Adds a fresh, peppery finish that brightens the whole dish.
- Olive oil (for grilling): Helps create a nice sear and prevents sticking.
How to Make Pizza Flavored Burgers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Grill and Patties
Start by preheating your grill or stovetop grill pan to medium-high heat, lightly brushing it with olive oil to keep your patties from sticking. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Parmesan, oregano, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Once evenly mixed, shape the mixture into four equal patties, making sure they’re slightly larger than your buns to account for shrinkage during cooking.
Step 2: Grill the Patties
Place the patties on the hot grill and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side. This timing will typically give you a well-done burger, but feel free to adjust based on your preference. The goal is a nicely browned crust with juicy meat inside. Keep an eye on them so they don’t dry out.
Step 3: Add Marinara and Mozzarella
With about a minute left of grilling on the second side, spoon a tablespoon of marinara sauce over each patty. Next, top each burger with a slice of fresh mozzarella cheese. Close the grill lid just for a minute to let the cheese melt into gooey perfection—a critical moment where this burger really begins to feel like pizza.
Step 4: Toast the Buns
While the patties are finishing up, toast your burger buns on the grill or in a toaster until they become golden brown and slightly crisp. This adds texture and prevents sogginess when the sauce and cheese go on.
Step 5: Assemble Your Pizza Flavored Burgers
Place each cheesy, saucy patty onto a warm toasted bun. For an extra burst of freshness, add a few basil leaves right on top. You can also spoon on more marinara sauce or sprinkle extra mozzarella cheese for those who want more layers of flavor. Serve immediately while everything is warm and melty.
How to Serve Pizza Flavored Burgers Recipe
Garnishes
The finishing touches are important here because they elevate the whole experience. Fresh basil leaves not only offer a pop of green but also provide a peppery brightness that contrasts beautifully with the rich cheese and tomato sauce. A light drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also amp up the flavor.
Side Dishes
This Pizza Flavored Burgers Recipe pairs wonderfully with classic sides that complement Italian-American vibes. Think crisp Caesar salad, garlic parmesan fries, or even a zesty Caprese salad on the side. For something simple, oven-roasted vegetables or a bowl of crispy sweet potato wedges offer a great balance.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests, serve these burgers on a wooden board accompanied by small ramekins of marinara sauce for dipping. You can also stack extra toppings like sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or roasted red peppers to customize each burger like your favorite artisan pizza.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep any leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to store the buns separately to avoid sogginess. When ready to eat, assemble fresh with warmed patties and buns.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze cooked patties individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag. They’ll last up to three months this way. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve moistness and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat patties gently on the stovetop or in the oven to avoid drying out the meat. To keep the cheese melty, add fresh mozzarella or a quick spoon of marinara sauce on top during reheating. Toast the buns separately for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe with ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option and works well with the Italian herbs and cheese in this Pizza Flavored Burgers Recipe. Just be mindful that turkey tends to cook faster and can dry out, so watch the cooking time carefully.
What’s the best way to melt the mozzarella perfectly?
Adding the mozzarella during the last minute of grilling and closing the lid works best for gentle, even melting. The trapped heat softens the cheese without burning it, creating that perfect gooey topping.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Mozzarella is traditional for this recipe, but feel free to experiment with provolone, fontina, or even a sharp cheddar if you like bolder flavors. Just keep in mind that fresh mozzarella has a fantastic melting quality that’s hard to beat.
Is this recipe suitable for outdoor grilling only?
Not at all! You can easily recreate these pizza-flavored burgers on a stovetop grill pan or even in a skillet on the stovetop. The key is to maintain medium-high heat and not overcrowd the pan so the burgers get a nice sear.
What other toppings go well with pizza-flavored burgers?
Sautéed mushrooms, roasted bell peppers, caramelized onions, or even a few jalapeño slices add great texture and flavor complements. Don’t be afraid to make the recipe your own with toppings you love on pizza!
Final Thoughts
This Pizza Flavored Burgers Recipe is a fun, flavorful twist that brings two beloved classics together in one delicious meal. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in your go-to collection for weeknight dinners and weekends alike. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a new favorite for everyone around your table.
Print
Pizza Flavored Burgers Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
These Pizza Flavored Burgers combine the savory goodness of classic beef patties with the vibrant flavors of Italian herbs, Parmesan, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal, these burgers bring the taste of pizza to the grill for a fun twist on a traditional favorite.
Ingredients
Burger Patties
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Assembly and Toppings
- 4 burger buns
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce (pizza sauce can also be used)
- 4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese (or shredded mozzarella)
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
- Olive oil (for grilling)
Instructions
- Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat and lightly grease the surface with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Make the Burger Patties: In a bowl, thoroughly mix together the ground beef, Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Divide and form the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties.
- Grill the Patties: Place the patties on the preheated grill and cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) for well-done burgers, or adjust cooking time to your preferred doneness.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: During the final minute of grilling, spoon approximately 1 tablespoon of marinara sauce onto each patty, then top each with a slice of mozzarella cheese. Close the grill lid to allow the cheese to melt perfectly.
- Toast the Buns: While the burgers cook, toast the burger buns on the grill or in a toaster until they are golden brown and slightly crisp.
- Assemble the Burgers: Place each cooked patty on a toasted bun and add extra marinara sauce, fresh basil leaves, or additional mozzarella cheese as desired for enhanced flavor.
- Serve: Serve the pizza-flavored burgers hot and enjoy this delicious fusion of classic burger and pizza flavors!
Notes
- For a leaner option, substitute ground turkey for beef in the patties.
- You can use shredded mozzarella if fresh slices are not available.
- Fresh basil leaves add a beautiful fragrant garnish but are optional.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F for food safety if using ground beef.
- Adjust seasoning according to your personal preference to enhance flavor.
- Use pizza sauce as an alternative to marinara for slightly different taste nuances.
