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These hearty Old School Pizza Burgers combine the best of classic burgers and pizza into one irresistible meal. Each toasted bun holds a generous portion of seasoned ground beef that's been simmered in zesty pizza sauce until perfectly flavored. Topped with a thick layer of melted sharp cheddar cheese, these open-faced burgers create beautiful stretchy cheese pulls with every bite. The combination of juicy meat, rich sauce, and gooey cheese delivers pure comfort food satisfaction that appeals to all ages.
These pizza burgers have become a beloved weekly tradition in countless kitchens. The combination of classic burger comfort with zesty pizza flavors creates an instant family favorite that brings everyone running to the table as soon as that cheese starts bubbling under the broiler.
Key Ingredients
- Ground beef: Select 80/20 ground beef for ideal flavor and juiciness. The meat should have good marbling and bright red coloring
- Pizza sauce: Use a thick, rich sauce that clings well to a spoon. Look for visible herbs and deep red color
- Sharp cheddar: Grate fresh from a block for best melting. The cheese should have rich yellow color and slight crumble
- Italian seasonings: Choose fresh, aromatic herbs. Quality blends should have distinct pieces and strong fragrance
Preparation Method
- Setup:
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Line baking sheets with parchment. Bring beef to room temperature. Have all ingredients measured and ready.
- Cook Meat:
- Brown beef in hot skillet, seasoning as you cook. Drain excess fat. Stir in sauce and simmer until thickened.
- Assembly:
- Toast buns until golden. Top with meat mixture and generous cheese layer. Ensure even coverage for consistent melting.
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The edges where cheese melts down onto the baking sheet create deliciously crispy bits that add extra texture and flavor. Many consider these crispy cheese corners the best part of the burger.
Serving Suggestions
Complete the meal with Italian-seasoned sweet potato fries and a fresh arugula salad dressed with light vinaigrette. For authentic cafeteria style, serve with chocolate milk or your preferred cold beverage.
Recipe Variations
Try using provolone and mozzarella cheese, add pepperoni under the cheese, or incorporate sautéed vegetables into the meat mixture. Create breakfast versions topped with eggs or switch up flavors with different seasonings and cheese varieties.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover burgers in airtight containers with parchment between layers. Keep refrigerated up to 3 days. Reheat in 325°F oven for 10-12 minutes to maintain texture. Avoid microwave reheating.
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These pizza burgers represent comfort food at its finest, combining childhood nostalgia with home cooking excellence. The attention to quality ingredients and careful preparation ensures consistently delicious results that make this recipe a true family favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can the beef mixture be prepped ahead of time?
- Sure can! Get the meat mix ready up to 48 hours before serving and keep it chilled. When it’s go-time, just heat it up and assemble.
- → What’s the best way to warm up leftover pizza burgers?
- Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for around 10 minutes to keep the buns crisp and re-melt the cheese.
- → Can you freeze these burgers?
- Absolutely! The meat mixture keeps well in the freezer for up to three months. Let it thaw in the fridge and use fresh buns when making them.
- → What sides pair nicely with these pizza burgers?
- They’re great with potato chips, a leafy green salad, or crunchy fries for a full retro vibe.
- → Can turkey replace the beef?
- Sure can! Ground turkey works well—just toss in some olive oil while cooking to keep it juicy.