Pizza Burgers

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If your family loves both pizza and burgers, why not bring the best of both worlds together with these Pizza Burgers? This recipe is my go-to whenever the kids can’t decide between burger night or pizza night—and let me tell you, it always gets everyone cheering! Juicy burger patties topped with gooey mozzarella, zesty pepperoni, and rich marinara sauce, all stacked between a perfectly toasted bun. It’s a flavor explosion that makes dinner feel like a pizza party!

You can whip up these Pizza Burgers in no time, and they’re so customizable for picky eaters or creative tastebuds. Plus, you don’t need fancy ingredients or chef-level skills. Just a good ol’ home cook mom trick of combining what you already love into one epic bite. These Pizza Burgers are perfect for family dinners, backyard BBQs, or even game day snacking. One bite and you’ll be hooked!

What’s on the Plate

Overview

• Cuisine: American-Italian Fusion
• Course: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 6 burgers

What’s in Every Bite

• Calories: 450
• Carbs: 30g
• Fats: 25g
• Protein: 28g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 780mg

Total Recipe Cost

• Estimated Total Cost: $12.00
• Cost Per Serving: $2.00
• Main Cost Factors: Ground beef, mozzarella cheese, pepperoni slices

The Story Behind the Flavor

Pizza Burgers became a fun kitchen hack in American homes during the 1970s. Moms and home cooks, looking to reinvent leftovers, found that combining the comfort of a hamburger with the bold flavors of pizza was an instant family hit. This creative mash-up likely emerged from the Midwest, where casseroles, sandwiches, and quick family meals were part of the weekly rotation.

Originally, Pizza Burgers were made by topping open-faced burger patties with marinara and mozzarella, then broiling them until bubbly. Over time, the dish evolved into a handheld masterpiece, incorporating pepperoni, Italian herbs, and all the pizza fixings. Today, it’s a beloved twist that turns burger night into a pizzeria feast right in your kitchen!

Perfect For

These Cheeseburger Sliders are more than just adorable mini burgers — they’re the ultimate crowd-pleasing, finger-food fun that fits right into so many mealtime moments. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a big backyard bash, here’s when these sliders will be your go-to:

• Family Burger Nights
  • Skip the fast food run! These sliders are a fun, interactive dinner the whole family will love. Set up a “slider bar” with toppings like lettuce, tomato, pickles, and sauces, and let everyone build their own perfect bite. It’s family burger night with a DIY twist.
• Easy Weeknight Dinners
  • Need something quick but satisfying? These sliders are weeknight heroes. They come together in under 30 minutes, bake all at once, and require minimal cleanup. Plus, they’re portable — perfect for busy nights when you need a dinner that’s grab-and-go friendly.
• Backyard Barbecues
  • No barbecue is complete without a platter of sliders! These mini burgers are ideal for outdoor gatherings and casual cookouts. They’re easy to serve, require no utensils, and keep guests happily munching without the mess of full-sized burgers.
• Kids’ Birthday Parties
  • Kids love anything that’s mini and handheld. These sliders are a birthday party staple, offering a kid-friendly main dish that’s easy for little hands to hold. Bonus: you can prep a big batch all at once, making party prep a breeze.
• Game Day Snacks
  • When the big game is on, you need snacks that are hearty, satisfying, and easy to grab between plays. These sliders fit the bill perfectly. Pile them high on a platter, add some dipping sauces on the side, and watch them disappear by halftime.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Pizza Burger Sliders bring together the best of two worlds—pizza and burgers—in one melty, saucy, handheld bite. It’s the kind of recipe that feels fun, indulgent, and totally stress-free. Here’s why you’ll be making these sliders on repeat:

• Combines Two Family Favorites: Pizza & Burgers
  • Why choose between pizza night and burger night when you can have both? These sliders mash up the cheesy, saucy goodness of pizza with the juicy, savory bite of a classic burger. It’s a guaranteed win with kids and adults alike.
• Ready in Just 30 Minutes
  • When time is tight but you still want something homemade and delicious, these sliders are weeknight lifesavers. From start to finish, you’re looking at just 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy evenings or when unexpected guests drop by.
• Customizable with Favorite Pizza Toppings
  • One of the best parts? You can get creative with toppings. Add pepperoni slices, sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Everyone gets to build their ultimate slider just the way they like it.
• Perfect for Casual Dinners or Entertaining
  • Whether you’re feeding the family or hosting friends, these sliders fit right in. They’re simple enough for a laid-back dinner, yet fun and festive for parties, game days, or backyard barbecues. Stack them high on a platter and watch them disappear.
• Melty, Cheesy, Saucy, and Super Satisfying
  • Every bite delivers a mouthful of gooey melted cheese, savory ground beef, and rich pizza sauce, all sandwiched in soft, buttery slider buns. It’s comfort food at its finest—messy in the best way and utterly satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Core Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 6 hamburger buns
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 18 slices of pepperoni
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling buns)
• Italian seasoning (optional)

Optional Add-ins

• Sliced mushrooms
• Green bell peppers
• Black olives
• Crushed red pepper flakes
• Fresh basil leaves

Ingredient Highlights

• Ground Beef: Juicy and flavorful, 80/20 is the perfect fat ratio.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully over the patties.
• Marinara Sauce: Adds the saucy pizza vibe.
• Pepperoni Slices: A little spicy, a lot of flavor!
• Hamburger Buns: Soft and sturdy enough to hold all the pizza goodness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Patties: In a bowl, mix ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Form into 6 burger patties.
2. Cook Patties: Grill or pan-fry the patties over medium heat for 4-5 minutes per side, until cooked through.
3. Add Marinara: Spoon a generous tablespoon of marinara sauce over each patty during the last minute of cooking.
4. Top with Cheese & Pepperoni: Sprinkle mozzarella on top, then add 3 slices of pepperoni per burger. Cover the pan or close the grill lid to melt the cheese.
5. Toast Buns: Brush hamburger buns with olive oil and toast them on the grill or a skillet until golden.
6. Assemble Burgers: Place the pizza-topped patties onto the buns. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning if desired.
7. Serve Hot: Add extra marinara on the side for dipping and enjoy!

Pro Tips

• Use a Cast-Iron Skillet for a Delicious Crust on Your Patties
  • For that irresistible crispy, caramelized sear on the burger patties, a cast-iron skillet is your best friend. The even heat and high-temperature hold ensure you get that beautiful golden crust while keeping the inside juicy. Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed.
• Making for a Crowd? Keep Patties Warm in a Low Oven
  • Cooking for a big group? Pre-cook all your patties and keep them warm in a 200°F oven while you toast the buns and assemble. This keeps everything hot and ready to serve without stressing about timing.
• Swap Out Beef for Ground Turkey for a Leaner Option
  • Want a lighter version? Ground turkey works beautifully in place of beef. Season it well with garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper to amp up the flavor. You still get that juicy, burger bite with a leaner twist.
• Toast the Buns for the Ultimate Texture Contrast
  • Don’t skip this step! Brushing the slider buns with a little melted butter and toasting them cut-side down in a skillet or oven adds a golden, slightly crisp texture that holds up beautifully against the saucy filling.
• Assemble in a Baking Dish for Easy Party-Style Serving
  • For effortless party prep, layer the bottom buns in a baking dish, add the patties, sauce, and cheese, top with the bun lids, then bake until melty. Slice into individual sliders and serve warm—easy, cheesy, and totally mess-free.

Recipe Variations

One of the best things about Pizza Burger Sliders? They’re a blank canvas for all your favorite pizza-inspired flavors. Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian option, a loaded supreme style, or a tropical twist, these variations have you covered.

• Veggie Pizza Burgers: A Meatless Marvel
  • For a hearty vegetarian take, swap the beef patty with a grilled portobello mushroom cap. Brush the mushroom with olive oil, season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs, and grill or roast until tender. It brings a rich, umami-packed bite that pairs beautifully with marinara and melty cheese. Perfect for Meatless Mondays or anytime you want a lighter option.
• Supreme Pizza Burgers: All the Toppings!
  • Love a loaded pizza? Go “supreme” by topping each slider with sautéed onions, bell peppers, and sliced black olives. You can even toss in some crumbled cooked sausage or pepperoni slices for a fully decked-out flavor bomb. These sliders are great for guests who like their burgers stacked high and full of texture.
• Hawaiian Style: Sweet and Savory in Every Bite
  • For a tropical twist, add a grilled pineapple ring on top of each patty before adding sauce and cheese. The sweetness of the pineapple caramelizes beautifully on the grill, balancing out the savory burger and tangy marinara. It’s a playful variation that’s perfect for summer cookouts or when you’re craving those Hawaiian pizza vibes.
• BBQ Chicken Pizza Sliders
  • Swap the beef for ground chicken patties and replace the marinara with a smoky BBQ sauce. Top with red onion slices and a sprinkle of sharp cheddar or mozzarella for a crowd-pleasing BBQ twist.
• Pepperoni Lovers Sliders
  • Channel classic pepperoni pizza by layering slices of pepperoni right on top of the patty under the cheese. They’ll get crispy around the edges as they bake, adding a salty, spicy bite.

Gluten-Free Version

Swap in Gluten-Free Slider Buns

The most important swap is the bun! Look for gluten-free slider buns or mini sandwich rolls at your local grocery store or bakery. Brands like Udi’s, Schär, or Canyon Bakehouse often carry delicious, soft gluten-free options that hold up well to juicy burgers and toppings.

Double-Check Your Marinara Sauce

While many marinara sauces are naturally gluten-free, it’s essential to read the label for hidden gluten ingredients or cross-contamination warnings. Look for sauces labeled “certified gluten-free” to be safe.

Choose Gluten-Free Pepperoni & Meats

If you’re adding pepperoni or sausage, make sure they’re gluten-free certified. Some processed meats can contain gluten in seasonings or fillers, so always give those ingredient lists a quick check. Brands like Applegate and Boar’s Head offer gluten-free options.

Check Any Additional Toppings & Cheeses

Most cheeses are naturally gluten-free, but flavored or pre-shredded varieties can sometimes contain anti-caking agents with gluten. Opt for block cheese that you shred yourself, or ensure your pre-shredded cheese is certified gluten-free.

Optional: Lettuce Wraps for a Low-Carb, Gluten-Free Twist

Want to skip the bun altogether? Wrap your Pizza Burger Slider in a crisp leaf of iceberg or butter lettuce for a fresh, low-carb alternative that still delivers all the pizza burger goodness.

Assembly Tip for Gluten-Free Buns

Gluten-free buns can be a little delicate. Toast them lightly to add structure and help them hold up to the saucy toppings. A quick brush of olive oil or butter before toasting adds flavor and keeps them from getting soggy.

Kid-Friendly Version

These Pizza Burger Sliders are already a surefire win with kids — I mean, who can resist mini burgers with melty cheese and pizza sauce? But with a few simple tweaks, you can make them even more appealing for picky eaters and turn slider night into a fun, interactive family dinner.

Skip the Pepperoni for Picky Eaters

Not every kiddo loves spicy or bold-flavored meats like pepperoni. Simply leave the pepperoni off their sliders and keep it classic with just the burger, marinara, and cheese. They’ll still get all the delicious pizza-burger flavor in a milder, kid-friendly way.

Serve with Extra Marinara on the Side for Dipping

Kids love to dip! Serve a little bowl of warm marinara on the side and let them dunk their sliders like mozzarella sticks. It turns dinner into a fun, interactive experience (and makes eating even more exciting for tiny hands).

Create a DIY Slider Topping Bar

Let the kids get creative! Set out bowls of simple toppings like extra shredded mozzarella, sliced olives, sweet bell pepper strips, or pineapple chunks. They’ll have a blast assembling their own “mini pizza burgers” with toppings they actually enjoy.

Mini Sliders for Little Hands

For younger kids, consider making extra-mini sliders by using small dinner rolls or halving regular slider buns. The perfect size for little hands, and no overwhelming bites.

Cheesy Overload Version

If you’ve got cheese lovers in the house, double up on the mozzarella or add a slice of American cheese for an extra gooey, melty bite. You can never go wrong with more cheese for the kiddos!

Keep the Flavors Mild

For more sensitive palates, use a mild marinara or even a simple tomato sauce without added spices. This ensures the sliders stay kid-friendly and not too bold or tangy.

Taste What’s Next

Hawaiian Roll Breakfast Sliders with Sausage Egg & Cheese
Mexican Street Corn Chicken Tacos
Hawaiian Roll French Toast
or you Can Dig Deeper Recipes by clicking this: Appetizer, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and Desserts.

Storage & Reheating

One of the best things about these Pizza Burger Sliders? They’re just as tasty the next day (or the next week if you freeze them right!). With a few smart storage tips, you can keep them fresh and reheat them to gooey, cheesy perfection.

• Fridge Storage (Up to 3 Days)
  • For short-term storage, keep the leftover patties and buns separate. Place the cooked patties in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Store the slider buns in a zip-top bag or covered container at room temperature, so they stay soft and fresh. Keeping them separate prevents sogginess and keeps the buns from absorbing too much moisture from the patties.
• Reheating Patties for Freshly-Assembled Sliders
  • When ready to enjoy, reheat the patties in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water to the pan and cover with a lid to help steam them gently and keep them juicy. Once warmed through, top with a spoonful of marinara and a sprinkle of cheese, then cover for a minute to melt the cheese to gooey perfection. Toast the buns lightly and assemble fresh for a just-baked taste.
• Freezing for Long-Term Storage (Up to 2 Months)
  • Want to meal prep a batch for later? Freeze the cooked patties (without sauce or cheese) for the best texture. Here’s how:
  • Allow patties to cool completely.
  • Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1 hour (this flash-freezes them so they don’t stick together).
  • Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container.
  • Store for up to 2 months.
  • When ready to eat, thaw patties overnight in the fridge or microwave on defrost mode. Reheat in a skillet or oven, add fresh marinara and cheese, and assemble with fresh buns for sliders that taste like they’re made from scratch.
• Pro Tip: Freeze Marinara in Ice Cube Trays
  • Got leftover marinara? Freeze small portions in an ice cube tray. Pop out a cube or two when you reheat your sliders for a perfectly portioned sauce topper without wasting a drop.

Equipment

• Grill or skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Basting brush
• Spatula

FAQs

Can I make Pizza Burgers ahead of time?

Yes! Cook the patties in advance and reheat with sauce and cheese just before serving.

What toppings can I add to Pizza Burgers?

Feel free to get creative! Mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, olives, or even pineapple work great.

Can I use store-bought pizza sauce instead of marinara?

Absolutely! Any pizza sauce you love will work perfectly.

How do I prevent soggy buns?

Toasting the buns and not over-saucing the patties will keep the buns from getting soggy.

Can I bake these Pizza Burgers instead of grilling?

Yes, bake the patties at 375°F for 20 minutes, then assemble and broil for 2-3 minutes until cheese is bubbly.

External Resources

• Cheese Melting Science

Conclusion

These Pizza Burgers are a must-try for any family that loves to mix things up at dinnertime. They’re juicy, cheesy, saucy, and packed with pizza flavors that kids and adults alike will devour. The best part? You can customize them endlessly to fit your favorite pizza cravings. Fire up the skillet or grill and get ready to serve up smiles around the dinner table!

So go ahead — snap a photo and post it online! Don’t forget to tag me! I want to see your cooking success. Happy cooking!