Description
These Slow-Cooked Beef Pizza Burgers combine the savory flavors of classic pizza with the juicy satisfaction of a burger. Ground beef is browned with onions and bell peppers, then slow-cooked in a rich pizza sauce seasoned with Italian herbs and garlic. Melted mozzarella cheese and optional pepperoni slices finish off these hearty, kid-friendly sandwiches perfect for an easy dinner or entertaining.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef Mixture
- 1½ pounds ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (15 oz) can pizza sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Toppings and Assembly
- 6 hamburger buns
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the beef and vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the finely chopped onion and chopped green bell pepper until the beef is no longer pink and the vegetables have softened. Drain any excess fat to reduce greasiness.
- Transfer to slow cooker and add seasonings: Move the cooked beef mixture into the slow cooker. Stir in the pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes if you want a bit of heat. Mix until everything is well combined.
- Slow cook the mixture: Cover and cook the beef mixture on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and melding of flavors.
- Add the cheese: Just before serving, stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese and allow it to melt completely into the hot beef mixture for a gooey, cheesy consistency.
- Prepare buns and assemble burgers: Optionally toast the hamburger buns to add texture and warmth. Spoon the cheesy beef mixture onto the bottom halves of each bun, top with pepperoni slices if desired, then add the top halves. Serve the burgers warm for best flavor and enjoyment.
Notes
- You can prepare the beef mixture in advance and keep it warm in the slow cooker for parties or gatherings.
- For a fun twist, serve open-faced by omitting the top bun.
- Substitute slider buns for mini sandwiches perfect for appetizers or kid-friendly portions.
- Add chopped mushrooms or black olives to the beef mixture for extra pizza-inspired flavor.
