Dinner

Old School Pizza Burgers – The Ultimate Retro Comfort Food! Recipe

Name: Old School Pizza Burgers – The Ultimate Retro Comfort Food! Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup pizza sauce; 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning; 6 hamburger buns, split in half; 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; ½ cup diced pepperoni; ¼ cup diced bell peppers or onions; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese; Red pepper flakes, to taste

Bylina Carter November 29, 2025November 29, 2025

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Introduction

Old School Pizza Burgers combine the best of two beloved classics: juicy burgers and flavorful pizza. This retro comfort food is quick to make and perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal or casual gathering.

The image shows a close-up of a sandwich with two thick, golden-brown grilled cheese layers acting as buns. Between these buns are two layers: a melted, creamy white cheese layer with a smooth texture that slightly melts over the bottom cheese bread layer, and a thick, rich, reddish-brown meat and tomato sauce layer with a coarse texture visible underneath the cheese. The top cheese bread layer is sprinkled with green herbs and small seeds, adding a detailed texture and a touch of color. The background is a white marbled texture with a second sandwich blurred out in the distance. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 cup pizza sauce

1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
6 hamburger buns, split in half

1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Optional add-ins:

½ cup diced pepperoni
¼ cup diced bell peppers or onions
1 teaspoon garlic powder

½ cup shredded mozzarella
Red pepper flakes (to taste)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.

Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain off excess fat.
Step 3: Stir in Italian seasoning and pizza sauce, then simmer for 2-3 minutes to combine flavors. For extra taste, add garlic powder, diced pepperoni, or onions if desired.
Step 4: Arrange the bun halves on the prepared baking sheet, cut side up. Spoon the meat mixture evenly onto each half.

Step 5: Top each with shredded sharp cheddar cheese and mozzarella if using. Spread cheese evenly to ensure a good melt.
Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 7: Serve warm, either open-faced or with the other bun half on top. Let cool slightly before enjoying.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier version, sprinkle red pepper flakes over the cheese before baking.
Swap sharp cheddar for mozzarella or provolone for a milder, creamier cheese flavor.
Add diced mushrooms or olives to the meat mixture for extra texture and taste.

Use whole wheat buns for a healthier twist.

Storage

Store leftover pizza burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes or until warmed through to keep the buns from getting soggy. They can also be reheated briefly in the microwave, but the texture may be softer.

How to Serve

The image shows a sandwich with two golden-brown toasted English muffin halves as the top and bottom layers. Between them is a thick, juicy beef patty covered with melted white cheese that drips slightly over the edges, and a layer of chunky red tomato sauce with visible herbs. The top muffin is sprinkled with dried green herbs, adding texture and color contrast. The sandwich sits on a wooden surface with a white marbled background softly blurred. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or pork can be substituted, though cooking times may vary slightly. Ground beef provides the classic flavor, but feel free to experiment.

Is it possible to prepare these in advance?

Absolutely. You can assemble the pizza burgers and refrigerate them before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.