Pizza Burger Recipe

Form patties

Place the ground beef in a bowl. Sprinkle in salt, black pepper, garlic powder and dried oregano. Gently mix with your hands or a spoon until just combined—do not overwork. Divide into two equal portions and form into patties about 3/4 inch thick, slightly wider than the buns, making a shallow indentation in the center of each patty to help them cook evenly.

Cook patties

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the patties and cook without moving for 3–4 minutes to develop a crust. Flip and cook another 3–4 minutes for medium (adjust time ±1–2 minutes for desired doneness). If patties are thick and need additional time, reduce heat to medium and cook to desired internal temperature (160°F/71°C for well-done). Remove patties to a plate and tent with foil to rest briefly.

Start mushrooms

While the patties are cooking (or in a separate pan), melt the butter with 1 teaspoon olive oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced shallot and cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant and translucent.

Add the sliced mushrooms in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Let them sear without stirring for about 2 minutes so they brown, then stir occasionally for another 2–3 minutes until golden and glossy. Add thyme, salt and pepper and cook 30 seconds more. Remove from heat and keep warm.

Toast buns

Preheat broiler or oven to high/425°F if you plan to melt cheese under the broiler. Split the buns and place cut sides up on a baking sheet. Lightly brush with a little olive oil or butter if desired. Toast under broiler 30–60 seconds until lightly golden (watch closely) or toast in a skillet.

Sauce the patty

Assemble: Place a cooked burger patty on the bottom bun. Spoon about 2 tablespoons pizza sauce over each patty and spread gently to cover the surface.

Add cheese & mushrooms

Top each sauced patty with half of the mozzarella (about 3 oz per burger). Spoon a generous portion of the sautéed mushrooms over the cheese. Sprinkle a little grated Parmesan and red pepper flakes if using.

Melt cheese

Melt cheese: Place the assembled open-faced burgers under the broiler for 1–2 minutes until mozzarella is melted and bubbly. Alternatively, cover the skillet with a lid for 1–2 minutes to melt the cheese, or place in a preheated 425°F oven for 3–4 minutes.

Serve

Finish and serve: Remove from heat, place fresh basil leaves on top if using, cap with top bun and serve immediately with extra pizza sauce on the side if desired.