Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: Utilizing a slow cooker allows for hands-off cooking, making it ideal for those with busy schedules.
- Family-Friendly: The familiar flavors of pizza make this dish appealing to both kids and adults alike.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable to various dietary preferences with simple ingredient substitutions.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef (lean for a healthier option)
- 30 oz pizza sauce (two 15 oz jars)
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices, halved
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 8 slices mozzarella cheese
- 8 burger buns of your choice
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned, breaking it into small pieces for even cooking. Drain any excess fat.
- Combine in Slow Cooker: Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker. Stir in the pizza sauce until the beef is thoroughly coated. Add the halved pepperoni slices, mixing them into the beef and sauce mixture.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low heat for approximately 3 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
- Add Cheese: After 3 hours, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the beef mixture. Cover and continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the cheese has melted.
- Assemble the Burgers: Spoon the pizza beef mixture onto the bottom halves of the burger buns. Place a slice of mozzarella cheese on top of each serving. Optionally, toast the buns before assembling for added texture.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes 8 burgers
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 45 minutes
Variations
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free burger buns and ensure the pizza sauce is gluten-free.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetarian pepperoni slices.
- Additional Toppings: Customize with sautéed mushrooms, sliced black olives, jalapeños, or onion rings to enhance flavor and texture.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover pizza burger mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the mixture on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if necessary to maintain moisture.
FAQs
1. Can I prepare the beef mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it thoroughly before assembling the burgers.
2. What type of ground beef is best for this recipe?
Using lean ground beef is recommended to reduce excess fat, but regular ground beef will also work well.
3. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute mozzarella with provolone, cheddar, or any cheese that melts well.
4. How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add sliced jalapeños to the mixture or sprinkle red pepper flakes into the pizza sauce for extra heat.
5. Is it possible to cook this on high to reduce cooking time?
Yes, you can cook on high for about 1.5 to 2 hours, but monitor closely to prevent overcooking.
6. Can I freeze the cooked beef mixture?
Yes, freeze the cooled beef mixture in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
7. What side dishes pair well with these pizza burgers?
Serve with sides like French fries, a fresh garden salad, or coleslaw to complement the flavors.
8. Can I use homemade pizza sauce?
Certainly! Homemade pizza sauce can add a personal touch and allow you to control the seasoning.
9. Are there low-carb options for this recipe?
Serve the beef mixture over a bed of lettuce or in low-carb wraps to reduce carbohydrate intake.
10. How can I prevent the buns from becoming soggy?
Toasting the buns before assembling can help prevent sogginess by adding a protective crisp layer.
Conclusion
Crockpot Pizza Burgers offer a delightful fusion of two classic favorites, providing a convenient and customizable meal option. Whether for a family dinner or a casual gathering, this recipe is sure to satisfy diverse palates with its rich flavors and
Crockpot Pizza Burgers
- Total Time: 3 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 burgers
Description
Crockpot Pizza Burgers combine the bold flavors of pizza with the hearty satisfaction of burgers, made effortlessly in a slow cooker. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs ground beef (lean preferred)
- 30 oz pizza sauce (two 15 oz jars)
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices, halved
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 8 slices mozzarella cheese
- 8 burger buns (choose your favorite)
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it into small pieces. Drain excess fat.
- Combine in Slow Cooker:
- Transfer the browned beef to a slow cooker. Mix in the pizza sauce and halved pepperoni slices.
- Slow Cook:
- Cover and cook on low for 3 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Add Cheese:
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the mixture. Cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes until cheese melts.
- Assemble the Burgers:
- Spoon the pizza beef mixture onto burger buns. Top with a slice of mozzarella cheese. Toast buns for added texture, if desired.
Notes
- To make gluten-free, use gluten-free buns and sauce.
- Vegetarian? Swap ground beef for plant-based meat and use vegetarian pepperoni.
- Customize with extra toppings like mushrooms or jalapeños for added flav
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: To make gluten-free, use gluten-free buns and sauce. Vegetarian? Swap ground beef for plant-based meat and use vegetarian pepperoni. Customize with extra toppings like mushrooms or jalapeños for added flav
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
