
Pizza Burgers are the ultimate comfort meal when you crave both pizza and a juicy burger. This recipe brings together tender beef, savory sausage, and bubbling cheese over a crisp English muffin, all under a blanket of zesty marinara and classic pizza toppings. Whether it is game night or just a craving for something fun, these always deliver.
The first time I served these was at my nephew's birthday party. Not a crumb was left and now every family gathering includes a plate of these fun burgers.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: for juicy burger texture and robust flavor Look for fresh ninety percent lean beef for best results
- Italian sausage: for rich savory undertones I prefer mild but spicy works too
- English muffins: provide a sturdy base that holds all the toppings Toast until barely golden to avoid any sogginess
- Marinara sauce: for classic pizza flavor Choose a brand with simple ingredients or make your own
- Pepperoni slices: add that unmistakable pizza taste Opt for thin cut and lower sodium when possible
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: for gooey melt and mild creaminess A whole milk mozz gives better melt
- Olive oil: for brushing on muffins Adds subtle flavor and helps with the perfect bake
- Salt and pepper: to bring out the flavors Freshly ground is best
- Crushed red pepper: for a little heat optional
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the English Muffins:
- Split the muffins with a fork for nooks to catch sauces Brush each half lightly with olive oil and toast on a baking sheet at 400 degrees Fahrenheit until just golden
- Brown the Meat:
- In a large skillet set over medium heat crumble ground beef and sausage together Let them brown fully breaking up clumps with a wooden spoon Drain any fat for a less greasy burger
- Season and Sauce:
- Sprinkle the cooked meat with salt and pepper Add marinara sauce right to the pan and stir Let simmer for five minutes so the meat really soaks up the flavor
- Assemble the Burgers:
- Spoon the saucy meat evenly over each toasted muffin half Top with pepperoni slices and scatter mozzarella cheese over all Press toppings down gently to keep them in place
- Bake:
- Slide the tray of loaded muffins onto the middle rack of a 400 degree oven Bake for about seven minutes just until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling but not browned
- Serve:
- Transfer burgers to plates and sprinkle with crushed red pepper if using Serve piping hot with extra marinara for dipping if you like

Pepperoni is my favorite part because it gets just a little bit crisp at the edges from baking growing up my brothers and I would always argue who got the ones with the most pepperoni.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge These are best eaten within two days For longer keeping you can freeze the assembled but unbaked burgers and then bake them straight from frozen add a couple of extra minutes to the cook time
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap English muffins for mini bagels or thick crusty bread Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version Skip pepperoni and add mushrooms bell peppers or olives for a vegetarian twist
Serving Suggestions
Pair pizza burgers with a simple green salad or garlic roasted vegetables Chips or fries also make a fun side dish For a party set up a topping bar with options like sliced olives onions or jalapenos
Cultural Context
Pizza burgers are a nostalgic American diner classic especially popular in the Midwest They were a staple in school cafeterias and local burger joints This homemade version lets you enjoy all those classic flavors right from your kitchen
Recipe FAQs
- → What kind of beef should I use for pizza burgers?
Choose ground beef with moderate fat content for juicier burgers and enhanced flavor. Blending with sausage adds extra richness.
- → Can I substitute English muffins with another bread?
Yes, try burger buns, ciabatta rolls, or even French bread to hold your patties and toppings securely.
- → What types of cheese work well for topping?
Mozzarella melts beautifully, but provolone or a sprinkle of parmesan can add a new flavor twist.
- → How can I prevent the burgers from becoming soggy?
Lightly toast the English muffins before assembling to create a barrier against the sauce and maintain texture.
- → What are some favorite side dishes to serve?
Crispy fries, a fresh Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables pair perfectly with pizza burgers for a balanced meal.