All-American Pizza Burgers

All-American Pizza Burgers Recipe - The Perfect Fusion of Pizza and Burgers

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

The All-American Pizza Burger is a delightful fusion of two of America's favorite comfort foods: the classic hamburger and the beloved pizza. This recipe brings together the juicy, savory flavors of a grilled burger with the rich, cheesy goodness of pizza, creating a mouthwatering dish that's sure to please crowds at any gathering. Perfect for backyard barbecues, family dinners, or a fun twist on game day food, this recipe is both easy to make and deliciously satisfying.

History

The concept of combining pizza and burgers into one dish has been around for several decades, evolving from simple pizza-flavored burgers to more elaborate creations featuring traditional pizza toppings and sauces. The All-American Pizza Burger, as we know it today, likely originated in the late 20th century, as American cooks became more experimental with fusion cuisine, blending elements from different culinary traditions to create new and exciting dishes. This recipe represents the culmination of this trend, offering a perfect balance of flavors that pays homage to both its pizza and burger roots.

Ingredients

1.5 lb (680 g) of lean ground beef
1.5 lb (680 g) of turkey sausage
1.5 tsp of salt
1 tsp of pepper
vegetable cooking spray
1 (14 oz (397 g)) jar of pizza sauce, divided
0.75 cup of fresh grated parmesan cheese
1 medium onion, chopped
12 slices of mozzarella cheese
12 hamburger buns

How to prepare

Combine ground beef, sausage, salt, and pepper.
Coat the grill rack with cooking spray.
Place the rack on the grill over medium-hot coals.
Place the patties on the rack and cook, uncovered, for 5 minutes on each side or until done.
Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and, if desired, onion.
Serve on buns with mozzarella cheese and the remaining pizza sauce.

Variations

1. Vegetarian Pizza Burger: Use a mix of mashed beans and chopped mushrooms in place of the meat for a hearty vegetarian option.
2. Spicy Pizza Burger: Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture and use spicy pepper jack cheese for a kick.
3. BBQ Pizza Burger: Mix some BBQ sauce into the pizza sauce for a smoky flavor twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

1. For the juiciest burgers, use a mix of lean ground beef and turkey sausage to keep the patties moist without being overly greasy.

2. Don't overmix the meat; gently combine the ingredients to ensure the burgers remain tender.

3. Preheat the grill and coat the rack with cooking spray to prevent sticking and achieve a nice sear on the patties.

4. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the burgers reach a safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for beef and 165°F (74°C) for turkey.

5. Allow the burgers to rest for a few minutes after grilling before serving to let the juices redistribute.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the All-American Pizza Burgers with a side of crispy baked sweet potato fries, a fresh garden salad, or some grilled vegetables for a complete meal. Don't forget to offer extra pizza sauce on the side for dipping!

Cooking Techniques

Grilling is the preferred cooking method for these burgers, providing a charred, smoky flavor that complements the pizza toppings. However, the burgers can also be cooked in a skillet on the stove or baked in the oven if grilling isn't an option.

Ingredient Substitutions

1. Ground chicken can be used instead of turkey sausage for a lighter option.

2. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps.

3. Marinara sauce can substitute for pizza sauce for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

The burger patties can be formed and refrigerated up to a day in advance, making this recipe perfect for easy entertaining. Simply take them out of the fridge about 30 minutes before grilling to bring them to room temperature.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the burgers open-faced, topped with extra grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning for a visually appealing presentation. A garnish of fresh basil leaves adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the All-American Pizza Burgers with a light, crisp lager or a fruity sangria to complement the rich flavors of the burger. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling lemonade or iced tea would be refreshing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, covered, until heated through. The buns are best stored separately and toasted before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each burger contains approximately 500 calories. This calorie count can vary based on the specific ingredients used, such as the type of cheese and buns. For a lighter version, consider using lower-calorie buns and cheese.

Carbohydrates

Each All-American Pizza Burger (including the bun) contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates. The majority of these carbs come from the hamburger bun and the pizza sauce. Opting for whole wheat buns can provide a healthier, fiber-rich alternative.

Fats

The total fat content in each burger is roughly 25 grams, with about 9 grams of saturated fat. Using lean ground beef and turkey sausage helps to keep the fat content in check, while still delivering a flavorful burger. Choosing low-fat cheese can further reduce the fat content.

Proteins

These pizza burgers are a high-protein meal, with each serving providing about 40 grams of protein. This comes from the combination of lean ground beef and turkey sausage, making the burgers a satisfying option that supports muscle growth and repair.

Vitamins and minerals

The All-American Pizza Burger is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including calcium from the cheese, iron from the beef, and various B vitamins from the meat and whole grain buns. Including toppings like fresh vegetables can further boost the vitamin and mineral content.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include gluten (in the buns), dairy (in the cheese), and potentially soy (in some brands of cooking spray). Gluten-free buns and dairy-free cheese substitutes can be used to accommodate those with allergies.

Summary

The All-American Pizza Burger is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, along with essential vitamins and minerals. While it's relatively high in calories and fat, making some ingredient substitutions can create a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.

Summary

The All-American Pizza Burger is a creative and delicious twist on two classic dishes, offering a satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. With options for customization and make-ahead preparation, it's a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit any taste or dietary need. Whether grilled outdoors or cooked indoors, these pizza burgers are sure to become a new favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for All-American Pizza Burgers. It was a warm summer day, and I had decided to have a picnic in the park with my friends. As we were unpacking our baskets and laying out our blankets, one of my friends pulled out a container filled with these delicious-looking burgers.

I had never seen anything like them before – juicy beef patties topped with gooey melted cheese, pepperoni slices, and marinara sauce, all sandwiched between two halves of a toasted hamburger bun. My mouth watered just looking at them, and I knew I had to ask for the recipe.

My friend, Sarah, was more than happy to share the secret behind her All-American Pizza Burgers. She explained that she had come up with the idea one day when she was craving pizza but didn't feel like going through the trouble of making a whole pie. Instead, she decided to combine the flavors of a classic pizza with the convenience of a burger – and the result was these mouthwatering creations.

I was intrigued by the simplicity of the recipe and couldn't wait to give it a try myself. Sarah graciously wrote down the ingredients and instructions for me, and I made a mental note to pick up everything I needed on my next trip to the grocery store.

When I got home, I wasted no time in whipping up a batch of All-American Pizza Burgers. I seasoned the ground beef with Italian herbs and spices, formed it into patties, and grilled them until they were perfectly cooked. Then, I topped each patty with a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese, a few slices of pepperoni, and a dollop of marinara sauce.

As the burgers sizzled on the grill, the aroma of melted cheese and Italian seasonings filled the air, making my stomach growl with anticipation. When they were finally done, I assembled them on toasted hamburger buns and took a big, satisfying bite.

The flavors exploded in my mouth – the rich, savory beef, the tangy marinara sauce, the spicy pepperoni, and the melted cheese all melded together in perfect harmony. It was like eating a pizza and a burger at the same time, and I couldn't get enough.

I immediately knew that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen. I made All-American Pizza Burgers for my family and friends, who all raved about how delicious they were. I even brought them to potlucks and barbecues, where they were always a hit.

Over the years, I've made some tweaks and additions to the original recipe. Sometimes, I'll add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture. Other times, I'll swap out the pepperoni for crumbled sausage or bacon. And on occasion, I'll experiment with different types of cheese, like cheddar or provolone.

But no matter how I customize them, All-American Pizza Burgers always bring a smile to the faces of those who try them. They're a fun and creative twist on traditional burgers, and they never fail to impress.

I'm grateful to Sarah for introducing me to this amazing recipe, and I'm thankful for all the memories I've created while making and sharing it with others. It's become a beloved favorite in my repertoire of dishes, and I can't imagine my culinary life without it.

So the next time you're in the mood for something a little different, why not give All-American Pizza Burgers a try? I promise you won't be disappointed – and who knows, you might just discover a new family favorite.