Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Burger Patties
- Season the beef – In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is evenly distributed, but be careful not to overwork the meat to keep the patties tender.
- Form the patties – Shape the seasoned beef into small, evenly-sized patties. They should be about the size of your mini buns, and slightly thinner in the center, as they will puff up while cooking.
- Cook the patties – Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the mini patties and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired doneness. Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Assemble the Mini Pizza Burgers
- Toast the buns – Melt the butter in a separate pan and lightly toast the mini burger buns, cut side down, until golden brown. This will give the buns a nice crisp texture and prevent them from getting soggy with the sauce.
- Add pizza sauce – Spread a spoonful of pizza sauce on each half of the toasted buns.
- Cheese it up – Place a cooked burger patty on the bottom half of each bun. Top the patty with shredded mozzarella cheese, and if you’re feeling extra pizza-inspired, add a few mini pepperoni slices or any of your favorite pizza toppings.
- Melt the cheese – To get that irresistible gooeyness, place the assembled burgers (without the top buns) on a baking sheet and broil in the oven for about 2-3 minutes, just until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly.
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy!
- Top and serve – Once the cheese is melted, place the top bun on each burger and serve them up warm.
- Optional garnishes – For an added Italian flair, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese and a pinch of extra Italian seasoning over the top.
Tips and Variations
- Custom Toppings: Just like pizza, the toppings on these mini burgers are totally customizable. Try adding sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, olives, or jalapeños for extra flavor.
- Sauce Swap: Want to switch it up? Use marinara sauce, pesto, or even alfredo sauce instead of traditional pizza sauce.
- Cheese Choices: While mozzarella is the classic pizza cheese, you can experiment with cheddar, provolone, or even pepper jack for a little kick.
Serving Suggestions
Mini Pizza Burgers are great for serving with sides like garlic fries, a fresh garden salad, or roasted vegetables. You can also offer dipping sauces like extra pizza sauce or ranch dressing on the side for a fun twist.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a family movie night, a kid’s birthday party, or even a casual get-together with friends, Mini Pizza Burgers are sure to be a hit. Their mini size makes them perfect for finger food, and the combination of pizza and burgers makes them an irresistible treat for all ages.
Enjoy your Mini Pizza Burgers with all the deliciousness of pizza in every bite-sized burger!
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