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Old School Pizza Burgers

Category: Dinner Ideas That Actually Work

These Old School Pizza Burgers capture the cozy flavors of cafeteria favorites in a simple weeknight dinner. Savory ground beef gets simmered with Italian seasoning and tangy pizza sauce, then piled onto toasted burger bun halves. Each is generously topped with sharp cheddar and baked until bubbly and golden. Try mozzarella for a classic twist, or add pepperoni, olives, or sautéed veggies to make them your own. Leftovers can be stored for an easy lunch the next day. Enjoy this family-friendly, nostalgic sandwich hot from the oven, and revisit comforting flavors from childhood.

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Clare Recipes
Created By Lily Chen
Updated on Tue, 10 Jun 2025 13:40:46 GMT
A plate of old school pizza burgers. Save
A plate of old school pizza burgers. | lilicooks.com

Old school pizza burgers bring retro flair to weeknight dinners and satisfy just about everyone at the table. With a foundation of juicy ground beef, a savory pizza sauce, and plenty of gooey melted cheddar, these hand-held treats channel the joy of childhood lunches but with the comfort of home-cooked freshness.

I found this recipe became an unexpected family classic after a busy weeknight dinner where smiles at the table convinced me to make it part of our regular rotation.

Ingredients

  • Ground beef: Provides hearty texture and rich flavor. Opt for an 80 percent lean cut for juiciness without excess grease
  • Pizza sauce: Brings that tangy herby pizza essence. Try to find a thick sauce or simmer to thicken
  • Italian seasoning: Infuses the beef with a blend of classic herbs
  • Burger buns: Sturdy enough to hold toppings without getting soggy. Go for bakery fresh buns if you can
  • Sharp cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully and gives a bold cheesy punch. Use a block and shred it yourself for best melt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat Your Oven:
Set the temperature to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and let it fully heat so everything gets perfectly melty
Brown the Beef:
In a skillet over medium high heat cook the ground beef thoroughly breaking it into crumbles. Let it develop some color
Drain and Season:
Once cooked drain off excess fat for a non greasy result. Stir in Italian seasoning so every bite pops with flavor
Simmer with Sauce:
Add pizza sauce to the skillet and stir to combine. Let it simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened so the beef is juicy but not watery
Prepare the Buns:
Place the halved burger buns cut side up on a baking sheet. This lets the bottoms crisp a bit during baking
Assemble the Burgers:
Spoon hearty scoops of the hot beef mixture onto each bun half spreading evenly. Top generously with shredded cheddar
Bake to Perfection:
Slide the tray into the oven and bake for about twelve minutes. Watch for the cheese to melt fully and start bubbling
Finish and Serve:
Remove from the oven. Cap each with the other bun half. Let them cool slightly before enjoying so the cheese is melty but safe to handle
A close up of a burger with cheese and meat. Save
A close up of a burger with cheese and meat. | lilicooks.com

One of my favorite parts is the cheese. I love seeing those golden bubbly edges especially when some drips down and crisps on the baking tray. The first time my daughter helped top the buns she smiled wide after sampling a little cheese straight from the bowl.

Storage Tips

Let the pizza burgers cool before storing in an airtight container. They will keep in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat place them on a baking sheet and warm in the oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through so the buns stay toasty and the cheese returns to melty perfection.

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken can be swapped for beef if you want a lighter version. For the cheese feel free to use mozzarella for a classic pizza taste or pepper jack for extra zip. You can even use marinara in place of pizza sauce just simmer a bit longer if it is runny.

Serving Suggestions

These pizza burgers taste amazing with a side of crisp tater tots or a simple green salad for balance. For a more festive spread set up a toppings bar with sliced olives diced peppers or pepperoni and let everyone make their own special burger.

A burger with cheese and meat on a bun. Save
A burger with cheese and meat on a bun. | lilicooks.com

Cultural Context

Pizza burgers are pure nostalgia sometimes called cafeteria pizza burgers or tavern burgers. Inspired by mid century school lunches and diner menus they capture the comfort of pizza in the convenience of a sandwich. Their retro appeal brings joy to both kids and adults.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different cheese instead of cheddar?

Yes, mozzarella is a great alternative for a classic pizza flavor. Other cheeses like provolone or a blend also work well.

→ How do I make these burgers vegetarian?

Swap the ground beef for a plant-based ground meat substitute or sautéed mushrooms and vegetables for a hearty option.

→ What toppings can I add for variety?

Pepperoni slices, black olives, sautéed peppers, onions, or mushrooms make tasty additions to customize your pizza burgers.

→ How should leftovers be stored and reheated?

Place cooled pizza burgers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

→ Can I prepare these pizza burgers in advance?

You can prep the beef mixture ahead of time, store it separately, and assemble just before baking for a quick meal.

Old School Pizza Burgers

Ground beef, tangy pizza sauce, and melted cheddar layered on toasted buns for a classic comfort meal.

Preparation Time
10 min
Cooking Time
12 min
Overall Time
22 min
Created By: Lily Chen

Category: Main Dishes

Skill Level: Beginner-Friendly

Cuisine Type: American

Output: 6 Serves

Dietary Options: ~

Ingredients

01 1 pound ground beef
02 1 cup pizza sauce
03 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
04 6 burger buns, halved
05 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Steps

Step 01

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 02

Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, then drain any excess fat.

Step 03

Stir in Italian seasoning, then mix in pizza sauce. Simmer until slightly thickened.

Step 04

Arrange burger bun halves, cut side up, on a baking sheet.

Step 05

Spread beef mixture onto each bun half and top with shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 06

Bake for 12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 07

Add the top bun and let cool slightly before serving.

Tips

  1. Swap cheddar for mozzarella for a more classic pizza taste.
  2. Customize toppings with pepperoni, olives, or sautéed vegetables.
  3. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat in an oven for best results.

Allergy Information

Always check each ingredient for allergens, and consult a medical professional if unsure.
  • Contains gluten from burger buns.
  • Contains dairy from cheese.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

These details are shared for general guidance and don’t replace professional advice.
  • Calories: 320
  • Fats: ~
  • Carbohydrates: ~
  • Proteins: ~