Loaded Pizza Burgers

Can’t decide between pizza night and burger night? These Loaded Pizza Burgers bring the best of both together in one irresistible meal. Juicy beef patties seasoned with Italian herbs and spices are topped with rich pizza sauce, savory pepperoni, melted mozzarella, and your favorite pizza toppings, all nestled inside toasted hamburger buns.

Ready in less than 30 minutes, these burgers are perfect for busy weeknights, casual family dinners, or weekend gatherings. Every bite combines the hearty flavor of a classic burger with the cheesy, saucy goodness of a freshly baked pizza.

🍔 Ingredients

For the Burgers

• 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 hamburger buns, split
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for toasting)

For the Pizza Toppings

• 1/2 cup pizza sauce
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 24 slices pepperoni
• 1/4 cup sliced black olives
• 1/4 cup diced green bell pepper
• 1/4 cup diced red onion
• 2 tablespoons sliced mushrooms (optional)
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

📝 Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven.

Preheat your oven broiler, or set the oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet for the assembled burger patties.

Step 2: Season and shape the beef.

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until the seasonings are evenly distributed. Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into patties slightly wider than your hamburger buns.

Step 3: Cook the burger patties.

Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for approximately 4–5 minutes per side, adjusting the time as needed for their thickness. Use a food thermometer to ensure the center reaches 160°F (71°C).

Step 4: Add the pizza sauce and toppings.

Transfer the cooked patties to the prepared baking sheet. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of pizza sauce over each patty. Top with shredded mozzarella, pepperoni slices, black olives, green bell pepper, red onion, and mushrooms if desired. Finish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 5: Melt the cheese.

Place the topped patties under the broiler for 2–5 minutes, or bake them at 400°F (200°C) until the mozzarella melts and becomes bubbly. Watch closely when broiling to prevent the cheese and pepperoni from burning.

Step 6: Toast the buns.

Lightly brush the cut sides of the hamburger buns with olive oil, if using. Toast them in a skillet or in the oven until lightly golden and crisp.

Step 7: Assemble the burgers.

Place each cheesy pizza-topped patty on a toasted bun. Sprinkle with dried oregano and fresh parsley, if desired, then cover with the top bun.

Step 8: Serve and enjoy.

Serve the burgers immediately while the cheese is warm and gooey. Pair them with crispy French fries, potato wedges, a fresh salad, or crunchy chips for a satisfying meal that brings two family favorites together.