Description
This Slow-Cooked Beef Pizza Burgers recipe combines the hearty flavors of ground beef simmered with classic Italian herbs and pizza sauce, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Perfect for a comforting meal, these burgers are slow-cooked to meld all the flavors beautifully and finished under the broiler for a cheesy, bubbly crust.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1 (14 oz) can pizza sauce
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 hamburger buns
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the beef mixture: In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Slow cook the beef: Transfer the cooked beef mixture to a slow cooker. Add the pizza sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together and cover. Cook on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 1 1/2 – 2 hours, until the flavors meld together.
- Assemble the burgers: When ready to serve, preheat your oven broiler. Place the hamburger buns on a baking sheet and toast them under the broiler for 1-2 minutes until lightly browned.
- Top the burgers: Spoon the slow-cooked beef mixture onto the toasted buns. Sprinkle each burger with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Place the burgers under the broiler for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves (optional) and serve with your favorite side dishes. Enjoy your cheesy, pizza-inspired burgers!
Notes
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
- You can prepare the beef mixture a day ahead and refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor.
- Use whole wheat buns for a healthier twist.
- Leftover beef mixture can be used as a pizza topping or in pasta dishes.
- Broil buns carefully to avoid burning—watch closely during toasting and melting cheese steps.
