Open-Faced Pizza Burgers

Preparing the Pizza Toppings

Learn how to prepare and arrange the pizza toppings, such as pepperoni, bell peppers, onions, or any desired ingredients to create a pizza-like layer atop the burger.

Assembly and Baking

Understand the process of assembling the burger and pizza toppings, then bake the open-faced burgers until the cheese is melted and bubbly for a mouthwatering finish.

Serving and Enjoying

Discover the best ways to serve these delightful burgers, whether as a dinner dish, a party appetizer, or a fun family meal with a side of salad or fries.

Why Open-Faced Pizza Burgers are a Flavorful Fusion

Explore the reasons why these pizza-infused burgers are a hit, combining the best elements of both dishes into one delicious and satisfying meal option.

Ingredients:

• 1-1/2 pounds ground beef
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 1 can (15 ounces) pizza sauce
• 1 can (4 ounces) mushroom stems and pieces, drained
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 6 hamburger buns, split and toasted
• 1-1/2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese

Directions:

1. Preheat the broiler of your oven. Set the oven rack about 4 inches from the heat source.
2. Cook the Beef:
   • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion together. Crumble the beef as it cooks, and continue until it’s no longer pink, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
   • Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
3. Add Flavor:
   • To the skillet with the drained beef and onions, stir in the pizza sauce, mushrooms, sugar, and oregano until everything is well mixed.
4. Assemble the Burgers:
   • Take the toasted hamburger buns and place them on an ungreased baking sheet.
   • Spoon the beef and sauce mixture generously onto each bun half.
   • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the meat on each bun.
5. Broil:
   • Place the baking sheet with the open-faced burgers under the broiler.
   • Broil them about 4 inches from the heat source until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 2 minutes.
6. Freezing Instructions (Optional):
   • To freeze the burgers for later, spoon the meat mixture onto toasted buns as if you were preparing to eat them right away.
   • Place the prepared buns on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1 hour.
   • After they’re frozen, transfer the burgers to a freezer-safe airtight container.
7. To Reheat from Frozen:
   • Thaw the burgers completely in the refrigerator.
   • Once thawed, sprinkle with cheese as directed and broil 4 inches from the heat until the cheese is melted and the burgers are heated through, about 2 minutes.

Conclusion: Delight in the Pizza-Burger Harmony

In conclusion, Open-Faced Pizza Burgers aren’t just a meal; they’re a delightful fusion of two favorites, offering a flavorful harmony that’s sure to please pizza and burger enthusiasts alike.

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be a leaner alternative that works well in these burgers without compromising the taste.

2. Can I customize the pizza toppings?

Absolutely! Customize the toppings to suit your preferences, experimenting with a variety of vegetables, meats, or cheeses for a personalized touch.

3. Can I use different sauces besides pizza sauce?

Certainly! Try marinara sauce, pesto, or even barbecue sauce for a unique flavor twist in your Open-Faced Pizza Burgers.

4. Can I make vegetarian versions of these burgers?

Yes, skip the meat and use plant-based alternatives like Beyond Meat or vegetables to create a delicious vegetarian version.

5. Can I prepare the burgers in advance?

Partially assemble the burgers, cover, and refrigerate. Add the toppings and bake just before serving to maintain optimal taste and texture.