To make these delicious Crockpot Pizza Burgers, you’ll need a few simple ingredients and basic equipment. These items are likely already in your kitchen, making this recipe both convenient and easy to prepare.

Ingredients:

2 lbs ground beef (lean if possible for a healthier option)

30 oz pizza sauce (two 15 oz jars)
1/2 cup pepperoni slices (cut in half)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

8 slices mozzarella cheese
8 burger buns (choose your favorite type)

Optional Toppings:

Sautéed mushrooms

Sliced black olives
Jalapeños for extra spice
Onion rings for added crunch

For more ideas on pizza toppings, explore this helpful article on gluten-free pizza recipe ideas. Also, if you’re looking for the perfect buns, you might want to check out The Best Buns for Burgers.

Equipment:

Slow cooker (Crockpot)
Skillet for browning the beef

Spatula
Measuring cups
Knife and cutting board

Step-by-Step Instructions :

Making Crockpot Pizza Burgers is a straightforward process. Follow these steps carefully to create a savory and delicious meal that combines the flavors of both pizza and burgers.

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating a skillet over medium heat.
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook it until it’s fully browned. Make sure to break it up into small pieces as it cooks to ensure even browning.

Once the beef is cooked through, drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep the final dish from being too greasy.
For a healthier option, consider using lean ground beef which reduces the fat content without sacrificing flavor. If you’re new to using lean beef, check out this guide on How to Choose Lean Ground Beef for more details.

By properly browning the meat, you’re adding an extra layer of flavor to your dish that will make your Crockpot Pizza Burgers truly stand out.

Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Once your ground beef is browned, transfer it into the bottom of your slow cooker.
Pour the pizza sauce over the beef, making sure to stir it in well so that the meat is fully coated in sauce.
Next, add the pepperoni slices. If you love adding extra toppings to your pizza, feel free to include sliced mushrooms, olives, or even jalapeños at this stage.

For more information on how to make homemade pizza sauce or customize it to your liking, check out How to Make Pizza Sauce.

This step allows all the ingredients to meld together during the slow-cooking process, which is key to achieving the rich flavor of pizza in this burger dish.

Step 3: Slow Cooking

Set your slow cooker to low heat and let it cook for about 3 hours.

Stir occasionally to make sure the beef and sauce are evenly distributed.
This slow cooking method allows the pizza sauce and pepperoni to fully infuse the beef with their flavors, resulting in a rich and hearty mixture.

For tips on how to get the most out of your slow cooker, you can read more about slow cooker cooking tips here.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Once the 3-hour cooking period is over, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the mixture.
Let the slow cooker run for an additional 30 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and gooey.

This melted cheese is what makes the burger-pizza combination truly irresistible.

Step 5: Serve the Pizza Burgers

Spoon the pizza burger mixture onto the buns and top each serving with a slice of mozzarella cheese.
For an added crunch, lightly toast the buns before serving.

Your delicious Crockpot Pizza Burgers are now ready to enjoy!

Variations and Dietary Modifications :

One of the great things about Crockpot Pizza Burgers is that they are easily adaptable to suit various dietary preferences and restrictions. Below are a few popular variations and substitutions to try, ensuring that everyone at the table can enjoy this delicious dish.

1. Gluten-Free Option :

For those with gluten intolerance or following a gluten-free diet, simply swap out the regular buns for gluten-free burger buns.
Additionally, check that your pizza sauce is gluten-free by reviewing the ingredients list or making your own at home using this guide to gluten-free pizza recipes.

You can still enjoy all the flavors of this dish without compromising on dietary needs.

2. Vegetarian Version :

To make this recipe vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based alternative such as Beyond Meat or a homemade black bean patty mixture.
For the pepperoni, there are several plant-based options available at most grocery stores, or you can omit it entirely.

By using these swaps, you create a hearty, meat-free version of the original recipe while still maintaining the savory pizza flavors.

3. Low-Carb/Keto Variation :

For those following a low-carb or keto diet, skip the bun and serve the pizza burger filling inside crisp lettuce wraps or on top of spiralized zucchini noodles.
You can also opt for a low-carb pizza sauce to further reduce carbohydrates. Learn more about keto-friendly meals and options with this low-carb recipe guide.

This version delivers all the flavor without the carbs!

4. Dairy-Free Version :

If you’re avoiding dairy, use a dairy-free mozzarella substitute or leave out the cheese altogether.
Many grocery stores now carry excellent dairy-free cheese options that melt well, allowing you to enjoy a creamy, cheesy experience.

Be sure to check your pizza sauce for hidden dairy ingredients.

Understanding the nutritional content of Crockpot Pizza Burgers is key to making informed dietary decisions. Below is a breakdown of the calories and nutrients per serving, along with some health benefits of the key ingredients.

Per Serving (1 Pizza Burger):

Calories: 648 kcal

Protein: 34g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fats: 35g

Fiber: 2g

Health Benefits:

Protein Boost: With 34 grams of protein per serving, these burgers are an excellent source of protein. This macronutrient is essential for muscle repair and growth. Ground beef, one of the main ingredients, is a rich source of high-quality protein.
Calcium Source: The mozzarella cheese in this recipe provides a significant amount of calcium, which supports bone health and nerve function. Opting for part-skim mozzarella can reduce the fat content while maintaining the calcium boost.

Vitamins and Minerals: Depending on the added toppings, this meal can also include vitamins like A, C, and K, along with minerals like iron and magnesium. For example, adding mushrooms increases the vitamin D content, while black olives offer a dose of healthy fats.

If you’re looking for more ways to lower calories without sacrificing flavor, consider using lean ground beef or plant-based alternatives. Explore more about lean ground beef and its benefits here.

Tips for Reducing Calories:

Use 93% lean beef to cut down on fat and calories.

Substitute full-fat mozzarella with part-skim mozzarella.
Serve open-faced with only one bun for fewer carbohydrates.

For more ways to keep this meal healthy, read our guide on nutritional benefits of ground beef.

FAQs :

This section addresses some of the most common questions about Crockpot Pizza Burgers. Whether you’re wondering about storage, ingredient substitutions, or how to adjust the flavor, these FAQs should cover everything you need to know.

1. Can I freeze the pizza burger mixture?

Yes, the pizza burger mixture can be frozen for up to 3 months. After cooking, allow the mixture to cool completely, then transfer it into an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.
To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it in a skillet or slow cooker before serving.

2. What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store any leftover pizza burger filling in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
When reheating, use the microwave or stovetop for the best results. If the mixture seems too dry, add a little extra pizza sauce or water to moisten it up.

3. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative to beef, especially if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that turkey has a milder flavor, so you might want to add extra seasonings like garlic or Italian herbs to enhance the taste.

Learn more about the benefits of using lean meats like turkey.

4. What other cheeses can I use?

While mozzarella is a classic choice for this recipe, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or a pizza blend. Each cheese will bring a unique flavor profile to your dish.
If you’re interested in dairy-free options, try a plant-based cheese for a dairy-free version of the dish. More on plant-based alternatives.

5. How do I make these pizza burgers spicier?

If you enjoy a little heat, there are several ways to spice up your Crockpot Pizza Burgers. Add crushed red pepper flakes directly into the pizza sauce, or mix in sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.
You can also drizzle hot sauce over the burgers just before serving for added spice.

6. Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can! To make this recipe in an Instant Pot, simply brown the beef using the sauté function, then add the pizza sauce and other ingredients. Set the pressure cooker on low for 20 minutes, and you’ll have your pizza burger mixture ready in no time.

7. What type of rolls work best for pizza burgers?

Any type of burger buns will work for this recipe, but for an extra indulgent touch, try using brioche or pretzel buns. These types of buns add a richer flavor and heartier texture to complement the pizza mixture. For ideas on selecting the best buns.