Description of this recipe
Old School Pizza Burgers are a delightful throwback to the lunches of the late 1970s, evoking memories of cafeteria trays and the delicious aroma of freshly baked bread and melted cheese. This recipe combines the comforting flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the zesty goodness of pizza, making it a nostalgic meal that’s perfect for both kids and adults alike.
Why you will love this recipe
This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. With its rich combination of seasoned ground beef, tangy pizza sauce, and gooey cheddar cheese, every bite brings back fond memories of childhood lunches. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover burger buns and ground beef, making it a budget-friendly option. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun dish to serve at a gathering, these Pizza Burgers are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup pizza sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 4 burger buns (preferably sesame or plain)
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- Olive oil (for greasing the baking sheet)
- Optional toppings: sliced pepperoni, green bell peppers, or black olives
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is perfect for achieving that slight crunch on the bottom of the buns while ensuring the cheese melts beautifully.
Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is browned and crumbled, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to break up any large chunks with a spatula. Once cooked, drain the excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
Step 3: Stir in the pizza sauce and Italian seasoning into the cooked ground beef. Mix well to ensure that the beef is evenly coated with the sauce and seasoning. Let this mixture simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: While the mixture is simmering, prepare a baking sheet by lightly greasing it with olive oil. Cut the burger buns in half and place them on the baking sheet, cut side up.
Step 5: Spoon the beef and pizza sauce mixture onto the bottom half of each bun. Generously sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese on top of the meat mixture. Bake in the preheated oven for about 12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the buns have a slight crunch on the bottom.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve these delicious Pizza Burgers hot from the oven, garnished with fresh basil or oregano for an extra burst of flavor. They pair wonderfully with a side of crispy fries or a fresh garden salad. For a fun twist, consider adding a side of marinara sauce for dipping!
Tips:
- Feel free to customize your Pizza Burgers by adding your favorite pizza toppings. Sliced pepperoni, mushrooms, or bell peppers can easily be mixed into the beef mixture or sprinkled on top before baking.
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, place them in the microwave, but be cautious as the cheese can become extremely hot and gooey!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Nutritional Information:
Calories: Approximately 350 per serving (1 burger)
Protein: 25g
Sodium: 600mg
Conclusion
Old School Pizza Burgers are a nostalgic meal that brings comfort and joy to the table. They are quick to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With their rich flavors and satisfying textures, these burgers are bound to become a favorite in your household, just as they were for many of us in our school days. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy a delicious slice of nostalgia!
Questions and Answers:
- Can I use turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative. Just be mindful that the cooking time may vary slightly. - What other cheeses can I use?
While sharp cheddar is recommended for its flavor, you can also use mozzarella for a more traditional pizza taste or a blend of cheeses for added richness. - How can I make these Pizza Burgers vegetarian?
Substitute the ground beef with a meat alternative such as crumbled tempeh, lentils, or a store-bought veggie burger patty. Just add the pizza sauce and seasoning as directed. - Can I freeze the Pizza Burgers?
Yes! You can assemble the burgers and freeze them before baking. When ready to eat, bake from frozen, adding an extra few minutes to the cooking time. - What should I do if I have leftover Pizza Burger filling?
The filling can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Use it as a topping for pasta, stuffed peppers, or even on a pizza crust for a quick meal!
