Nothing captures the spirit of classic American comfort food quite like a fusion of two timeless favorites: pizza and burgers. Old School Pizza Burgers are a throwback to school cafeteria lunches from the ’70s and ’80s, now reimagined with a delicious homemade twist. With rich, seasoned beef, melty cheese, and pizza-style sauce baked onto fluffy buns, this dish offers the kind of hearty flavor that brings back fond memories.
Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner idea or planning a fun meal for guests, these savory sandwiches deliver every time.
A Quick Look at the Dish
Old School Pizza Burgers combine toasted hamburger buns with a flavorful beef-and-pizza-sauce mixture, then topped with shredded cheese and baked until melty and golden. It’s a simple but incredibly satisfying dish.
Short Description
A cheesy, saucy fusion of pizza and burgers baked on buns—classic comfort food with retro charm.
Ingredients (U.S. Measurements | Serves 6)
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1 pound ground beef
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1 cup pizza sauce
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1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
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6 hamburger buns, split in half
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1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Optional Add-ins:
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½ cup diced pepperoni
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¼ cup diced bell peppers or onions
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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½ cup shredded mozzarella
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Red pepper flakes (to taste)
Prep Time & Nutritional Info
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 12 minutes
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Total Time: 22 minutes
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Calories: Approx. 320 kcal per serving
How to Make Old School Pizza Burgers (Step-by-Step)
Stage 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
Stage 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned and no longer pink (about 6-8 minutes).
Drain off any excess fat.
Stage 3: Add Seasonings and Sauce
Stir in Italian seasoning and pizza sauce.
Simmer for 2-3 minutes to combine flavors.
Optional: Add garlic powder, pepperoni, or onions for more flavor.
Stage 4: Prepare the Buns
Place bun halves on the baking sheet, cut side up.
Spoon the meat mixture evenly onto each half.
Stage 5: Add Cheese
Top each with shredded cheddar (and mozzarella, if using).
Spread cheese evenly for maximum melt.
Stage 6: Bake
Bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Stage 7: Serve
Optionally top with the other bun half, or serve open-faced.
Let cool slightly and serve warm with sides.
Serving Suggestions
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As a main dish with fries, salad, or slaw
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Cut in halves for party platters
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Serve open-faced for casual snacking
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Kid-friendly with simple veggie sides
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Game-day snack with dipping sauces
Make-Ahead & Freezer Tips
To Freeze:
Assemble the burgers and wrap in foil before baking.
Freeze, then bake straight from frozen at 350°F for 18–20 minutes.
To Refrigerate:
Store the meat mixture separately in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Assemble and bake when ready to serve.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven at 325°F or use an air fryer for crispiness.
Avoid microwaving to maintain bun texture.
Tips for the Best Pizza Burgers
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Choose lean ground beef (85/15) to balance flavor and moisture
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Lightly toast buns before assembling to prevent sogginess
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Mix cheeses for more flavor depth—mozzarella, provolone, and parmesan all work well
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Customize with toppings like olives, peppers, or chili flakes
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Serve open-faced for a more pizza-style experience
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Let beef and sauce simmer to enhance the flavor blend
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Sneak in veggies for a healthier version
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Try slider buns for kid-friendly servings
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Add a spicy kick with jalapeños or spicy sausage
Creative Variations
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Pizza Sloppy Joes: Serve meat mixture on soft buns for a messier, juicier option
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Keto Style: Skip the bun and stuff mixture into bell peppers or zucchini boats
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Breakfast Twist: Use breakfast sausage and top with an egg
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Tex-Mex Version: Add taco seasoning and use cheddar-jack cheese
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Vegetarian Option: Swap beef for plant-based crumbles or finely chopped mushrooms
Why Everyone Loves Them
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Universally appealing to both kids and adults
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Quick to make, ideal for busy weeknights
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Adaptable for different diets and preferences
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Great for meal prep and freezer storage
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Evokes nostalgic feelings of school lunches or childhood dinners
Final Thoughts
Old School Pizza Burgers are more than just a meal—they’re a warm reminder of classic comfort food. They’re easy, fast, and endlessly customizable. Perfect for family dinners, parties, or even meal prepping, this recipe deserves a place in your regular dinner rotation. Make a batch tonight and enjoy the hearty goodness of a retro favorite brought to life in your own kitchen.