Description
Herb-Infused Pizza Burgers
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
16 slices pepperoni
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella
1/2 cup marinara sauce
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp basil
4 burger buns
Instructions:
Mix ground beef with oregano and basil. Form patties and cook until done.
Spread marinara sauce on buns, top with patties, shredded mozzarella, and pepperoni.
Broil for 2 minutes to melt the cheese.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve.
Herbs take this burger to the next level!
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#HerbPizzaBurgers
Step-by-Step Guide
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 lb of ground beef with 1 tsp dried oregano and 1 tsp dried basil. Use your hands to mix gently but thoroughly, ensuring the herbs are evenly distributed without overworking the meat.
2. Divide the mixture into four equal portions. Form each into a patty slightly wider than your burger buns, as they will shrink slightly during cooking. Use your thumb to make a shallow indentation in the center of each patty to prevent puffing.
3. Preheat a grill, skillet, or griddle over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness (internal temperature of 160°F for well-done).
4. While the patties cook, preheat your oven’s broiler. Split your four burger buns and place them on a baking sheet, cut-side up. Lightly toast them under the broiler for 1 minute, watching carefully to avoid burning.
5. Remove the buns. Spread approximately 1 tablespoon of marinara sauce on the top and bottom halves of each bun. Place a cooked patty on each bottom bun.
6. Top each patty with shredded mozzarella and 4 slices of pepperoni. Place the loaded burgers (open-faced) back under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, just until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and crown with the top bun. Serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these hearty burgers with a side of crispy garlic parmesan fries or a simple Italian chopped salad. For a true pizza-parlor experience, offer small bowls of extra warmed marinara sauce, red pepper flakes, and grated parmesan cheese for dipping and topping. A cold, light beer or sparkling lemonade perfectly cuts through the rich flavors.
How-to Summary
Season beef with dried herbs and form patties. Cook patties thoroughly. Toast buns lightly, then spread with marinara. Assemble burgers with patty, cheese, and pepperoni. Broil briefly to melt cheese. Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat? Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based ground meat alternative work well. Adjust cooking times as needed based on the protein used.
How can I prevent the burgers from drying out? Avoid overmixing the meat and do not press down on the patties while cooking. Using meat with a slightly higher fat content (80/20) also helps retain juiciness.
Can I prepare these ahead of time? You can mix the meat and form the patties ahead, storing them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours. For best results, cook and assemble just before serving.
What’s a good substitute for fresh basil garnish? If fresh basil isn’t available, a sprinkle of additional dried basil or oregano, or even a handful of fresh arugula, makes a fine alternative.
My cheese isn’t melting under the broiler. What went wrong? Ensure your broiler is fully preheated and you are using pre-shredded cheese or cheese shredded at home (not a large block). Place the rack in the upper third of the oven, but not directly under the element, to allow the cheese to melt without burning the bun.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid over-packing the meat when forming patties, as this leads to a tough, dense texture. Do not skip toasting the buns, as this creates a crucial barrier against sogginess from the sauce. Finally, never leave the burgers unattended under the broiler—the high heat can burn the buns and pepperoni in seconds.
Conclusion
These Herb-Infused Pizza Burgers are a fantastic fusion meal that delivers the beloved flavors of pizza in the satisfying form of a juicy burger. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can easily avoid common pitfalls and create a crowd-pleasing dinner that feels gourmet with minimal effort. The combination of aromatic herbs, savory marinara, melted cheese, and spicy pepperoni is guaranteed to become a new family favorite. Give this recipe a try for your next weeknight meal or casual gathering!
