If you’re looking for a fun and easy dinner idea that combines two of everyone’s favorite foods – pizza and burgers – look no further than these Crockpot Pizza Burgers! This recipe is the perfect mix of classic pizza flavors with the convenience of a slow cooker. Whether you’re running around on a busy weeknight or hosting a game day get-together, these pizza burgers are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
I’ve always loved the idea of pizza but sometimes making a pizza from scratch feels like too much work. Plus, when you throw in kids (or guests) who all want different toppings, it can be a challenge. That’s where these Crockpot Pizza Burgers come in. You get all the cheesy, savory goodness of pizza without the need for a pizza dough, and the slow cooker does all the hard work for you. It’s seriously one of the easiest dinner ideas I’ve ever come across, and trust me, if you love pizza, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we get started, let’s go over what you’ll need for these Crockpot Pizza Burgers. These ingredients are super simple and likely things you already have in your kitchen:
2 lbs ground beef
30 oz pizza sauce (two 15 oz jars)
1/2 cup pepperoni slices, sliced in half
1 cup shredded mozzarella
8 slices mozzarella cheese
8 rolls (or burger buns if you prefer)
I love how easy it is to customize this recipe! If you want to throw in some extra toppings like mushrooms, olives, or bell peppers, feel free to make it your own. But for this version, we’ll stick to the classic flavors that make pizza so irresistible.
Steps to Make These Crockpot Pizza Burgers
Now that we have everything we need, let’s dive into the steps to make this meal. This recipe is foolproof, so even if you’re not an experienced cook, you can still nail this one. Here’s how to get started:
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
The first thing you’ll need to do is brown your ground beef. Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Once the pan is hot, add the ground beef and cook until it’s fully browned. This step is super important to ensure the beef has a nice texture and flavor when it cooks in the slow cooker.
After the beef is browned, drain any excess grease from the pan. No one wants greasy burgers, right? Once it’s drained, transfer the beef to your slow cooker. This is where all the magic happens!
Step 2: Stir in Pizza Sauce and Pepperoni
Next, pour in your pizza sauce. Two 15 oz jars should be the perfect amount to coat the beef and create that rich, pizza-inspired flavor. Stir everything together until the beef is evenly coated in the sauce.
Now, take your pepperoni slices and cut them in half. I like to slice the pepperoni to help it blend in better with the beef and sauce, giving each bite a little extra punch of flavor. Add the halved pepperoni to the slow cooker and stir them in as well.
Step 3: Let the Slow Cooker Work Its Magic
Once everything is mixed together, cover the slow cooker with its lid and set the heat to low. Let it cook for 3 hours. During this time, the beef will absorb all the flavors from the pizza sauce and pepperoni, and everything will become tender and delicious.
If you have the time, you can let it go for even longer, but 3 hours is usually the sweet spot for getting that perfect, flavorful mixture.
Step 4: Add Mozzarella Cheese
After 3 hours, it’s time to add the cheese. Take your shredded mozzarella and sprinkle it generously over the top of the beef and sauce mixture. This will melt into the sauce, creating a gooey, cheesy topping that just makes everything even better.
Cover the slow cooker again and let it cook for another 30 minutes on low. During this time, the cheese will melt into the sauce, creating that ooey-gooey, melty pizza perfection. You’ll want to keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t overcook.
Step 5: Serve on Rolls with Extra Mozzarella Cheese
Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, it’s time to serve! Grab your rolls (or burger buns, if you’re using those) and spoon the cheesy, beefy mixture onto each one. For an extra cheesy finish, place a slice of mozzarella cheese on top of the hot mixture. When the cheese melts over the hot beef and sauce, it’s going to be absolutely irresistible.
Tips, Variations, and More Ways to Enjoy Crockpot Pizza Burgers
Now that you’ve got the basics down, let’s talk about how you can make these Crockpot Pizza Burgers even better and explore some creative twists to suit your taste buds. The beauty of this recipe is how easy it is to customize, so don’t hesitate to get a little adventurous in the kitchen! Plus, I’ve got a few tips and tricks up my sleeve to ensure your pizza burgers turn out perfectly every time.
Tips for Making the Best Crockpot Pizza Burgers
Before you dive in, let’s go over a few tips to help you achieve the most flavorful and satisfying pizza burgers:
Tip 1: Drain the Ground Beef Well
This one is important: make sure you drain the excess grease from the browned ground beef before adding it to the slow cooker. The last thing you want is for your pizza burgers to be greasy! Draining the beef will help keep the flavor balanced and ensure your sauce doesn’t become too oily.
Tip 2: Use Your Favorite Pizza Sauce
Not all pizza sauces are created equal! If you have a favorite brand of pizza sauce, this is the time to use it. The sauce is a key ingredient in this recipe, and using one you love will make a huge difference in flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try making your own pizza sauce for an extra personal touch.
Tip 3: Keep It Low and Slow
If you have the time, let the mixture cook for a little longer than 3 hours on low. This will help all the flavors meld together even more, resulting in a richer, more savory burger. Just be sure to check in on it occasionally to make sure the mixture doesn’t dry out. If it looks like it’s getting too thick, you can always add a little more pizza sauce to keep it nice and saucy.
Tip 4: Toast the Rolls
While this step isn’t required, I highly recommend toasting your rolls or buns before serving. Toasting them for a few minutes in the oven adds a bit of crunch and keeps them from getting soggy from the sauce. A crispy roll with melty cheese and juicy beef is pure perfection.
Tip 5: Keep an Eye on the Cheese
You want that perfect melt on your mozzarella cheese, so be sure to check your slow cooker after you add the shredded mozzarella and let it cook for 30 minutes. If you let it go for too long, the cheese might get too hard or start to burn on the edges. Watch closely to achieve the perfect melty cheese every time.
Fun Variations to Try
While these Crockpot Pizza Burgers are delicious as they are, there are plenty of ways to switch things up and add some variety. Here are a few ideas for different versions of this recipe:
1. Add Veggies for Extra Flavor
If you’re a fan of veggies on your pizza, try adding some sliced mushrooms, green bell peppers, or black olives to the beef mixture. Just chop them up and toss them into the slow cooker with the beef and pizza sauce. The slow cooker’s heat will soften the vegetables and infuse the mixture with additional flavor.
2. Swap Out the Pepperoni
While pepperoni is a classic pizza topping, it’s not the only option! You could swap the pepperoni for other pizza meats like Italian sausage, cooked bacon, or even ground turkey if you prefer a leaner option. You can also use a combination of these meats to create a more complex flavor profile.
3. Make It Spicy
If you love a little heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños to the mix. You can also swap regular pepperoni for spicy pepperoni to kick things up a notch. If you’re really feeling adventurous, drizzle some hot sauce over the finished burgers for an extra punch of flavor.
4. Try Different Cheeses
Who doesn’t love extra cheese? While mozzarella is the classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses as well. Provolone, cheddar, or even a bit of Parmesan would all be great additions. You could also mix and match different cheeses for a melty, gooey masterpiece.
5. Switch Up the Buns
Instead of regular rolls, you can use garlic bread, burger buns, or even English muffins for a fun twist. Garlic bread in particular adds a savory, buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with the pizza filling. You could also use a toasted bagel or a soft hoagie roll for a unique take on this recipe.
How to Serve Crockpot Pizza Burgers
These Crockpot Pizza Burgers are versatile when it comes to serving options. Here are a few ideas on how to enjoy them:
Side of Chips: Potato chips, tortilla chips, or even veggie chips make a great crunchy side that pairs well with the melty, cheesy burger.
Fresh Salad: A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help balance out the richness of the burgers. Think leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers – super refreshing!
Roasted Vegetables: For something heartier, try roasted veggies like broccoli, carrots, or cauliflower. The slight crispiness of the roasted veggies complements the gooey, cheesy burger perfectly.
Make Ahead and Storage Tips
The great thing about these Crockpot Pizza Burgers is that they’re perfect for meal prepping or making ahead of time. You can prepare the beef and pizza sauce mixture the night before, store it in the fridge, and pop it in the slow cooker when you’re ready to cook. This saves you time on busy days!
FAQ and Final Thoughts on Crockpot Pizza Burgers
I’m so glad you’ve made it this far! By now, you’re probably ready to start making these Crockpot Pizza Burgers for yourself. Before you do, let’s answer some common questions that might pop up as you cook, and I’ll give you a final nudge to encourage you to give this recipe a try. Trust me, once you taste these, you’ll be hooked!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! While ground beef is the most common choice for this recipe, you can easily swap it out for other meats. Ground turkey or chicken work well for a leaner option, while Italian sausage will add a bit of spice and extra flavor. Just remember, if you’re using a leaner meat like turkey, you may want to add a bit of olive oil or butter to ensure the mixture stays moist and flavorful.
2. Can I make these Crockpot Pizza Burgers without a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! If you don’t have a slow cooker or you’re in a rush, you can make this recipe on the stovetop. Brown the ground beef in a skillet, then add the pizza sauce and pepperoni, and let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Add the shredded mozzarella near the end and let it melt. Finally, assemble your burgers as you normally would. While the slow cooker method is hands-off, the stovetop version is still super easy and works in a pinch!
3. How do I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (which I doubt you will because they’re so delicious!), simply store the beef and cheese mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, and serve it on fresh rolls. Leftovers actually taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop!
4. Can I freeze Crockpot Pizza Burgers for later?
Yes, you can freeze the beef and pizza sauce mixture! After cooking, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it into a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. You can freeze the mixture for up to 2-3 months. It’s a great way to have a meal ready to go whenever you need it.
5. Can I add other pizza toppings like mushrooms, olives, or green peppers?
Yes, absolutely! This recipe is super customizable. If you love classic pizza toppings, feel free to add mushrooms, olives, or green peppers to the slow cooker along with the ground beef and sauce. Just be sure to chop them up small so they cook down properly and blend in with the mixture. These toppings will add extra flavor and texture to the final burger, making it even more pizza-like!
6. Can I use a different type of cheese?
While mozzarella is the go-to choice for pizza flavors, you can certainly experiment with other types of cheese! Provolone, cheddar, or even a blend of different cheeses like Parmesan and mozzarella will work wonderfully. The more cheese, the better, right? Feel free to get creative with the cheese choices to make the recipe your own!
7. How do I make sure my rolls don’t get soggy?
To keep your rolls or buns from getting soggy, I recommend toasting them lightly before adding the beef and cheese mixture. Toasting the rolls will give them a little crunch on the outside and help them hold up to the saucy filling. If you’re using softer rolls, you might want to add a thin layer of butter or olive oil before toasting to give them a bit more structure.
Conclusion: Ready to Try These Crockpot Pizza Burgers?
Now that you’ve got the full rundown on making these Crockpot Pizza Burgers, I hope you’re excited to give them a try. They’re simple, flavorful, and totally customizable, which makes them a perfect go-to dinner or party dish. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe checks all the boxes.
And don’t forget – the beauty of these burgers is how adaptable they are. Feel free to mix and match different meats, cheeses, and toppings to create your perfect pizza burger. I promise, no matter what you choose, they’ll be a hit!
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, dust off the slow cooker, and get ready for a cheesy, savory meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Let me know how your pizza burgers turn out, and if you try any fun variations, share your ideas in the comments below – I’d love to hear how you made this recipe your own! Happy cooking!
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Crockpot Pizza Burgers
Description
These Crockpot Pizza Burgers are an easy, delicious twist on traditional pizza, packed with savory ground beef, pizza sauce, and pepperoni, all topped with melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or game day, this slow-cooker recipe is simple to prepare and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
2 lbs ground beef
30 oz pizza sauce (two 15 oz jars)
1/2 cup pepperoni slices, sliced in half
1 cup shredded mozzarella
8 slices mozzarella cheese
8 rolls
Instructions
Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Once the beef is fully browned, drain any excess grease and transfer the beef to the bottom of your slow cooker.
Stir in the pizza sauce and the halved pepperoni slices. Mix everything together well. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 3 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.
After 3 hours, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the mixture and cook for an additional 30 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly.
To serve, spoon the beef and cheese mixture onto each roll. Top with a slice of mozzarella cheese for an extra cheesy finish.
Notes
These Crockpot Pizza Burgers are a fun and easy way to enjoy the flavors of pizza without the need for a pizza crust. The slow cooker does all the work, ensuring the beef is flavorful and tender, while the cheese melts perfectly to create a satisfying, gooey topping. Serve them with a side of chips, salad, or even roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
