The Ultimate Mashup: Irresistible Cheeseburger Pizza Recipe

Imagine your two favorite comfort foods uniting in a symphony of flavors – that’s precisely what you get with this extraordinary Cheeseburger Pizza! Forget the dilemma of choosing between a classic, juicy cheeseburger and a cheesy, satisfying pizza. This incredible recipe masterfully blends the best elements of both, creating a culinary experience that will tantalize your taste buds and become an instant family favorite. Featuring perfectly seasoned ground beef, a rich, melted cheese blend, a signature tangy burger sauce, and the delightful crunch of pickles, all resting on a perfectly baked pizza crust, this dish is truly a taste explosion waiting to happen!

While the timeless appeal of a classic cheeseburger is undeniable, there’s an exhilarating joy in culinary innovation – especially when it involves delightful mashups! If you’re a fan of taking beloved dishes and transforming them into something new and exciting, you’re in for a treat. This Cheeseburger Pizza isn’t just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavor fusion. If you’re eager to explore more creative takes on the humble cheeseburger, don’t miss out on these fantastic ideas: try these Cheeseburger Eggrolls for a crunchy, savory bite, or warm up with this hearty Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup. Each offers a unique spin on a familiar classic, promising to broaden your culinary horizons.

Prepare to welcome your new favorite pizza recipe into your weekly rotation! In many households, both burgers and pizza are recurring menu stars. So, it felt like an inevitable and exciting step to combine these two comfort food giants into one spectacular dish. This fusion not only satisfies cravings for both but elevates them into an unforgettable meal.

This pizza is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary adventure. It’s an ideal choice for those evenings when you want to shake up your traditional pizza night with something truly unique and incredibly delicious. The flavors are exceptionally bold and harmoniously blended, delivering a “wow” factor with every single bite. The savory ground beef, the creamy melted cheese, the zesty burger sauce, and the unexpected tang of pickles create a dynamic profile that will impress even the pickiest eaters. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for parties, family dinners, or simply a fun weekend treat.

Essential Ingredients for Your Cheeseburger Pizza

Creating an exceptional Cheeseburger Pizza begins with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in replicating that iconic cheeseburger flavor profile on a pizza crust. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need and why it matters:

• The Signature Sauce: The heart of any great cheeseburger is its sauce, and this pizza is no exception. Our easy burger sauce is a delightful blend of classic condiments: rich ketchup, tangy mustard, creamy mayonnaise, and a hint of smoky paprika. This combination delivers that unmistakable sweet, savory, and slightly acidic kick you expect from a burger. While this recipe provides a fantastic base, feel free to customize it! Some people love a touch of relish for extra texture and sweetness, or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for deeper umami. This sauce truly binds the cheeseburger experience to your pizza.
• Quality Ground Beef: For the ultimate cheeseburger experience, the choice of ground beef is crucial. I recommend using a leaner ground beef (e.g., 90/10 or 85/15) to minimize excess grease. Too much fat can lead to a soggy pizza crust and an overly greasy finished product. If you do use a higher fat content, ensure you thoroughly drain off any accumulated grease after cooking. Crumble the beef finely so it distributes evenly across the pizza.
• Flavorful Seasoned Salt: To keep things simple yet incredibly flavorful, seasoned salt is your best friend. It provides a balanced blend of salt, pepper, garlic, and other spices, infusing the ground beef with savory depth. However, don’t hesitate to experiment! Adding a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or even a dash of smoked paprika can further enhance the “burger” flavor. For an extra kick, a tiny bit of chili powder or cayenne pepper could also be a delicious addition.
• Perfect Pizza Dough: The foundation of any great pizza is its crust. Most standard pizza recipes call for a 1-pound ball of dough, which is commonly found pre-made in grocery stores. However, for those who truly appreciate the art of pizza making, homemade dough is always superior. My pizza dough recipe is highly recommended for its perfect texture and flavor. For a slightly thinner crust that allows the toppings to shine without feeling too heavy, I personally prefer using about 12 ounces of dough. If you’re buying pre-made dough, allow it to come to room temperature for easier handling and stretching.
• Melted Cheese Blend: A cheeseburger isn’t complete without cheese, and neither is this pizza! Freshly grated cheese is always the superior choice over pre-shredded, as it melts more smoothly and provides a richer flavor without anti-caking agents. I find Colby Jack cheese to be an excellent choice, offering a mild, creamy, and slightly tangy flavor that melts beautifully. However, you have many options: a classic sharp cheddar delivers a bolder, more traditional cheeseburger taste, while mozzarella provides a satisfying stretch and mildness. A blend of cheddar and mozzarella can offer the best of both worlds. Provolone or even a few slices of American cheese could also work for that classic diner-burger vibe.
• Fresh & Tangy Toppings: These are the classic accompaniments that make a cheeseburger truly sing.
  • Diced Onion: Adds a sharp, fresh bite that complements the richness of the beef and cheese.
  • Diced Tomatoes: Provides a burst of freshness and a touch of acidity, cutting through the richness.
  • Tangy Pickles: Absolutely essential! Sliced pickles deliver that distinctive briny, sour crunch that defines a cheeseburger. Don’t skip these; they are crucial for the authentic flavor.

  For those looking to get even more creative, consider adding crispy bacon bits, caramelized onions for sweetness, or even a sprinkle of shredded lettuce (added after baking) for extra crunch and a fresh finish.

How to Craft Your Delicious Cheeseburger Pizza

Making this Cheeseburger Pizza is a straightforward and rewarding process. Follow these steps to assemble your masterpiece:

1. Prepare the Signature Burger Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, and paprika. Whisk them together until you have a smooth, well-blended sauce. This is your flavor base, so make sure it’s perfect! Set aside approximately 2 tablespoons of this sauce; you’ll use this for drizzling over the finished pizza to add a fresh burst of flavor.

2. Cook the Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Continue to cook until it’s almost entirely browned. Once most of the pink is gone, sprinkle in the seasoned salt. Mix well and continue cooking until no pink remains and the beef is fully cooked through. If using a fattier ground beef, drain off any excess grease from the skillet to prevent a soggy pizza. Set the cooked beef aside.

3. Prepare Your Pizza Dough: Preheat your oven to 450ºF (230ºC). If you’re using a pizza stone, place it in the oven now to preheat for at least 30 minutes to ensure a perfectly crispy crust. On a lightly floured surface, stretch or roll your pizza dough into a 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer the dough to a pizza peel (dusted with cornmeal or semolina) or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

4. Apply the Sauce Base: Take the main portion of your prepared burger sauce (all but the reserved 2 tablespoons) and spread it evenly over the pizza dough. Leave about a 1-inch border around the edges for the crust.

5. First Layer of Cheese: Sprinkle half of your grated Colby Jack (or preferred cheese blend) directly over the burger sauce. This layer will help create a cheesy barrier and ensure great flavor in every bite.

6. Add the Ground Beef: Evenly sprinkle the cooked and seasoned ground beef over the first layer of cheese. Distribute it well so every slice gets a generous amount of savory beef.

7. Second Layer of Cheese: Now, sprinkle the remaining half of your cheese over the ground beef. This ensures maximum cheesiness and helps hold all the toppings in place once melted.

8. Top with Fresh Veggies and Pickles: Carefully arrange the diced onions and diced tomatoes over the cheese and beef. Then, evenly layer your pickle slices on top. These fresh elements add crucial texture and tangy flavor to the pizza. For those who prefer warmer toppings, adding them before baking is perfect. If you prefer a crispier, fresher texture for the pickles or onions, you can add them after the pizza comes out of the oven.

9. Bake to Perfection: Gently transfer the assembled pizza to the preheated oven (either onto the hot pizza stone or directly on the baking sheet). Bake for approximately 10 to 12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning.

10. Finish with a Drizzle: Once baked, carefully remove the pizza from the oven. Immediately drizzle the reserved 2 tablespoons of burger sauce over the entire pizza. This final touch adds a burst of fresh, vibrant flavor that truly completes the cheeseburger experience.

Expert Tips for the Best Cheeseburger Pizza

To ensure your Cheeseburger Pizza is nothing short of spectacular, here are some invaluable tips and tricks:

• Mastering Your Pizza Dough: The crust is the foundation! For an in-depth guide on making and handling pizza dough, including tips for stretching, achieving crispiness, and troubleshooting common issues, refer to my comprehensive homemade pizza dough post. Proper dough handling makes all the difference.
• Drain the Ground Beef Thoroughly: This is a critical step. If your ground beef has a higher fat content, it’s absolutely essential to drain off any excess fat after cooking. Failure to do so will result in a greasy, soggy pizza crust that detracts from the overall experience. A quick pat with paper towels after draining can also help remove residual oil.
• Topping Placement – A Matter of Preference: I personally love adding my diced onions, tomatoes, and pickles to the pizza before baking. They soften slightly and warm up, infusing their flavors into the pizza. However, I’ve learned that not everyone enjoys warm pickles! If you or your guests prefer a fresher, crispier texture for the toppings, especially the pickles, feel free to add them immediately after the pizza comes out of the oven. This allows for a more vibrant, raw crunch.
• Get Creative with Additional Toppings: Don’t limit yourself to the basic cheeseburger elements! This pizza is a fantastic canvas for experimentation. Consider these delicious additions:
  • Crispy Bacon: Cooked and crumbled bacon bits add a smoky, salty crunch.
  • Caramelized Onions: For a sweeter, richer onion flavor, caramelize them beforehand.
  • Jalapeños: If you love a bit of heat, sliced fresh or pickled jalapeños are a fantastic choice.
  • Shredded Lettuce: For an authentic burger experience, finely shredded iceberg lettuce can be sprinkled over the pizza immediately after baking, adding a cool, crisp texture.
  • Sesame Seeds: Brush the crust with a little melted butter or egg wash and sprinkle sesame seeds before baking for a “burger bun” crust effect.
• Allow the Pizza to Rest: Patience is a virtue, especially with pizza. Allow your cheeseburger pizza to rest for 5-10 minutes after removing it from the oven before slicing. This crucial step allows the melted cheese and toppings to set, preventing them from sliding off when you cut into it, and making for much cleaner slices.
• Serving Suggestions: This pizza is a meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with classic burger sides. Think a side of crispy French fries, onion rings, or a fresh green salad to balance the richness.
• Storage and Reheating: Leftover cheeseburger pizza is delicious! Store slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For best reheating results, use a toaster oven or a preheated oven (around 350°F / 175°C) until warmed through and the crust is crisp again. Microwaving can make the crust soggy.
• Make it Kid-Friendly: This fun and familiar flavor combination is often a huge hit with children. Involve them in choosing toppings or even spreading the sauce for a fun family cooking activity!

Explore More Pizza Recipes

If you’ve enjoyed the creative flair of this Cheeseburger Pizza, you’ll love diving into these other fantastic pizza recipes that are perfect for any occasion:

• White Pizza Recipe: A creamy, garlicky, herb-infused delight without red sauce.
• Taco Pizza: All the zesty flavors of your favorite tacos on a crispy crust.
• Breakfast Pizza: Start your day with a savory pizza topped with eggs, bacon, and cheese.
• BBQ Chicken Pizza: Sweet and smoky BBQ sauce, tender chicken, and red onion make a delicious combination.
• Buffalo Chicken Pizza: Spicy buffalo sauce and chicken, reminiscent of your favorite wings, in pizza form.

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Cheeseburger Pizza

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Author: Deborah Harroun

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 8 slices

Course: Main Dish

Cuisine: American

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Looking for the ultimate mashup of two classic favorites? Try this Cheeseburger Pizza! This mouthwatering pizza combines all the delicious elements of a cheeseburger, including seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, an easy burger sauce, and tangy pickles, on a perfect pizza crust. Get ready for a taste explosion!

Adjust servings: 1x 2x 3x

Ingredients

• 1/3 cup ketchup
• 2 1/2 tablespoons mustard
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 3/4 pound ground beef
• 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
• 1 pound pizza dough*
• 2 cups grated Colby Jack cheese
• 1/3 cup diced onion
• 1/2 cup diced tomato
• 1/2 cup pickle slices

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 450ºF (230ºC). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven and preheat for at least 30 minutes.
2. In a small bowl, combine the ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, and paprika. Mix well.
3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Cook, breaking it up as it cooks, until it is almost cooked through. Season with the seasoned salt and continue to cook until no pink remains. Drain any excess fat.
4. Stretch or roll the pizza dough out into a 12” circle. Spread all but about 2 tablespoons of the ketchup mixture over the crust, leaving about 1-inch of the edges bare. Sprinkle half of the cheese, then top with the cooked ground beef. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
5. Add the onions and tomatoes over the top, then layer on the pickles.
6. Transfer the pizza to the oven and bake until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted, about 10 to 12 minutes.
7. Remove from the oven and drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of the sauce over the top of the pizza.

Recipe Notes:

*I like my pizza crust a little thinner, so I will use about 12 oz of dough per pizza instead of 1 pound.
See my pizza dough post for all of my pizza baking tips and tricks.
Nutrition information provided as an estimate only. Various brands and products can change the counts. Any nutritional information should be used as a general guide.

Nutrition Information

Serving: 1slice,
Calories: 356kcal (18%),
Carbohydrates: 31g (10%),
Protein: 18g (36%),
Fat: 17g (26%),
Saturated Fat: 7g (44%),
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g,
Trans Fat: 0g,
Cholesterol: 52mg (17%),
Sodium: 835mg (36%),
Fiber: 2g (8%),
Sugar: 6g (7%)

Keywords: cheeseburger pizza, pizza recipe