This Old School Pizza Burger

The Old School Pizza Burger is a fun and flavorful twist on the classic burger. Combining the savory elements of a pizza, like pizza sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, with a juicy beef patty, this burger is the perfect fusion of two beloved comfort foods. Quick and easy to prepare, it’s sure to satisfy your craving for both a burger and pizza!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup pizza sauce
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 slices mozzarella cheese
• 4 hamburger buns

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, pizza sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
2. Shape the mixture into 4 even patties.
3. Heat a grill or skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired doneness.
4. Once the patties are cooked, top each one with a slice of mozzarella cheese and cook for an additional minute, or until the cheese is melted.
5. Serve the patties on hamburger buns and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

1. Different Cheese: Swap mozzarella for provolone, cheddar, or even pepper jack for a unique flavor.
2. Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes to the patty mixture or top the burger with sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
3. Veggie Option: Use a plant-based burger patty or a portobello mushroom cap in place of ground beef for a vegetarian option.
4. Add Toppings: Try adding pizza toppings like pepperoni, mushrooms, or olives on top of the cheese for a more authentic pizza experience.
5. Garlic Butter Buns: Brush the buns with garlic butter before toasting them for extra flavor.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Leftover patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the cooked patties by wrapping them in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. They can be kept for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat the patties in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, or place them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes to warm through.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? Yes, ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative to beef. Just make sure it stays moist with the breadcrumbs and pizza sauce.
2. Can I make this burger ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the patties in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. They’ll stay fresh for up to 1 day.
3. Can I make this recipe without breadcrumbs? Yes, you can use crushed crackers, oats, or even a gluten-free breadcrumb substitute if needed.
4. How can I make these burgers spicier? Add some chopped jalapeños to the patty mixture or top with a spicy marinara sauce.
5. What other cheeses can I use? You can try cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor.
6. Can I cook the patties in the oven? Yes, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until fully cooked through.
7. How do I prevent the burgers from drying out? Adding pizza sauce and breadcrumbs helps keep the patties moist. You can also add a bit of olive oil to the patty mix for extra juiciness.
8. Can I use a different sauce? If you’re not a fan of pizza sauce, you can use marinara sauce or any tomato-based sauce you prefer.
9. Can I add veggies to the burger mix? Yes, finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach would blend well in the patty mix.
10. What’s the best way to serve these? These burgers are great with a side of fries, salad, or even roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This Old School Pizza Burger combines all the beloved flavors of pizza with the classic comfort of a hamburger. It’s quick to prepare, customizable, and offers a fun new way to enjoy both your favorite foods. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this pizza burger will hit the spot every time.

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