Grilled Pizza Burger: American Beef and Mozzarella Burger
Select ground beef with 13% fat to ensure your grilled pizza burger remains moist under high heat. Put back lean mince that lacks sufficient fat, as it will dry out on the grill grate. Use a high-quality beef pepperoni that slices evenly to provide a consistent saltiness across every patty.
You combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan to create a sturdy base for pizza toppings. Press a shallow indentation into the centre of each 4 cm thick patty to prevent them from puffing during cooking. Sear the meat at 190°C (375°F) to build a deep brown crust before adding the pizza sauce and mozzarella. Let the burgers rest covered with foil for 2 min to keep the juices within the meat. The result is a fusion of American burger and pizza flavours on a buttered, golden-brown bun.
Grilled Pizza Burger: American Beef and Mozzarella Burger
Recipe cardIngredients
Instructions
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Prepare the grill
Pre-heat your grill to 190°C (375°F). Create a two-zone cooking area with one side for direct heat and one side for indirect heat. This allows you to sear the meat and melt the cheese without burning the patties.
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Mix the beef
Combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, sea salt and black pepper in a large bowl. Mix until just combined. Do not over-mix so the patties stay tender.
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Shape the patties
Divide the beef into five 225 g portions and shape them into flat patties 4 cm thick. Press a shallow indentation into the centre of each with your thumb. This prevents the burgers from puffing up during cooking.
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Sear the meat
Place the patties on the direct-heat section of the grill. Sear for 3–4 min on each side. You want a deep brown crust to form and the juices to run clear.
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Toast the buns
Split the buns and spread butter on the cut surfaces. Place them butter-side down on the grill for 1–2 min. Remove them once they are golden-brown.
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Add pizza toppings
Spoon pizza sauce over each patty, then add mozzarella and beef pepperoni during the final minute of the second sear. Move patties to the indirect-heat side and cover with a lid for 1–2 min. Cook until the cheese melts and the meat reaches 70°C (160°F).
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Rest the burgers
Remove the patties from the grill. Cover them loosely with foil and let them rest for 2 min. This step ensures the juices stay within the meat for a moist result.
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Assemble and serve
Place a rested patty on a toasted bun. Add fresh basil leaves if you wish. Top with the remaining bun half and serve immediately.
Maintain a steady grill temperature by adjusting vents or moving the meat. If the heat is uneven, your sauce and cheese will melt at different rates, leaving some burgers underdone and others burnt. Check the internal temperature with a thermometer to ensure accuracy.
Ground beef substitutes
Use ground turkey or pork if you cannot find beef. Turkey reduces the fat content and creates a leaner patty, which may result in a drier texture. Pork adds a different savoury depth but may require more seasoning to balance the richness of the mozzarella and pepperoni.
What to serve with it
Pair these burgers with a refreshing tomato-cucumber salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. You may also serve them with a crisp romaine salad or oven-roasted sweet potato wedges. For a more substantial accompaniment, offer homemade garlic aioli and a side of oven-roasted baby carrots to complement the rich meat.
Storing and reheating
Store cooled burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. You can freeze individually wrapped patties for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating on the grill for 5 minutes per side to maintain the texture and juices.
Nutrition per serving
- Calories
- 680
- Protein
- 42.5 g
- Carbs
- 28.2 g
- Fat
- 44.1 g
- Fiber
- 2.1 g
- Sugar
- 6.4 g
Estimated, and offered as a guide rather than a medical figure.
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Questions people ask
What is the 5-6-7 rule for grilling burgers?
This rule refers to specific timing and temperature markers for different burger thicknesses. It ensures the meat reaches a safe internal temperature without drying out, though this recipe relies on a thermometer to hit 70°C (160°F) for precision.
What are the ingredients in a pizza burger?
A pizza burger combines ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, and Parmesan in the patty. It is topped with pizza sauce, mozzarella cheese, and beef pepperoni to mimic the flavour profile of a traditional pizza on a grilled burger bun.
What is the best recipe for grilling hamburgers?
The best method involves using a two-zone grill with direct and indirect heat. This allows you to sear the meat at 190°C (375°F) for a crust and then melt toppings slowly without burning the exterior of the patty.
About the author
Makeva
Makeva is a home‑cook who loves crafting approachable meals that balance flavor and nutrition. She specializes in quick weeknight dinners, hearty soups, and wholesome baked goods, sharing step‑by‑step guidance and practical tips. Readers can expect clear instructions, adaptable recipes, and a friendly tone that encourages confidence in the kitchen.
