Let’s be honest. Some nights, all you want is food that gets the job done. Something cheesy. Something satisfying. Something fast.
Open-faced pizza burgers are exactly that. They’re comforting, fun, ridiculously easy, and totally customizable. You’re combining the best part of a burger with the cheesy goodness of pizza—all without needing dough, buns, or anything fancy.
These are the kind of weeknight wins that make you wonder why you haven’t been making them forever. Toast. Top. Broil. Done.
Here’s how to make it happen.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 lb | Use lean or 80/20 for extra flavor |
| Yellow onion | 1 small | Finely chopped |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp | Or 2 fresh garlic cloves |
| Italian seasoning | 2 tsp | Adds the pizza flavor |
| Kosher salt | 1 tsp | Adjust to taste |
| Black pepper | ¼ tsp | Fresh cracked preferred |
| Pizza sauce | 1 cup | Store-bought or homemade |
| Shredded mozzarella | 1 cup | Or mix with provolone or cheddar |
| English muffins | 4 | Split in half to make 8 rounds |
| Optional toppings | As desired | Pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, etc. |
Tools You’ll Use
| Tool | Use |
|---|---|
| Skillet or pan | Browning the beef and onions |
| Baking sheet | Toasting and broiling the muffin halves |
| Oven with broiler | Melting and browning the cheese |
| Knife and cutting board | Prepping the onion and toppings |
| Spatula or spoon | Stirring the filling and spreading it |
| Cheese grater | If not using pre-shredded cheese |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
Split the English muffins and place them cut-side up on a baking sheet. Toast them in the oven for 5 minutes, just until they’re golden and slightly crisp. This keeps them from going soggy once topped. - Heat a skillet over medium heat.
Add a drizzle of oil, then toss in the chopped onion. Cook for about 4 minutes, until softened and lightly golden. - Add the ground beef and season.
Let it sit for a minute before stirring to get that nice sear. Add garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Break it up as it cooks and stir occasionally until no pink remains—around 7 to 8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed. - Stir in the pizza sauce.
Let everything simmer together for 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens slightly and becomes spreadable. - Assemble the pizzas.
Spoon the beef mixture onto each toasted muffin half. Top with shredded mozzarella and any toppings you’re using. - Broil.
Turn your oven to broil. Slide the tray under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes, just until the cheese is bubbling and lightly golden. Keep a close eye so nothing burns. - Let them cool briefly.
Give them a minute or two before biting in. They’ll be hot—and totally worth the wait.
Substitutions and Variations
| Swap This | For This | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef | Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles | Lighter or vegetarian version |
| English muffins | Ciabatta, rolls, or gluten-free bread | Different base or dietary need |
| Mozzarella | Cheddar, provolone, pepper jack | For a different melt or flavor |
| Pizza sauce | Marinara, arrabbiata, or BBQ sauce | Change the flavor direction |
| Garlic powder | Fresh minced garlic | Boosts aroma and depth |
Pro Tips
Toast the muffins first to avoid sogginess—don’t skip this step.
Let the beef brown before stirring. That sear adds so much flavor.
Add toppings like mushrooms or olives under the cheese so they don’t dry out under the broiler.
Mix mozzarella with cheddar or provolone for a more complex flavor.
Want them spicy? Stir red pepper flakes into the meat or use spicy sausage.
Make-Ahead Ideas
Cook the beef mixture 1 to 2 days ahead and store it in the fridge.
Pre-toast the muffins and store them in an airtight container at room temp.
Assemble everything (except broiling) and refrigerate the tray. Broil just before serving for a 5-minute dinner win.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Muffin Half)
| Nutrient | Amount (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~410 |
| Protein | ~28g |
| Fat | ~21g |
| Carbs | ~24g |
| Fiber | ~2g |
Numbers vary based on cheese, sauce, and toppings. For a lighter version, use lean ground meat, part-skim mozzarella, and fewer toppings.
Great Pairings
| Side | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Crisp romaine salad | Balances the richness |
| Roasted broccoli or green beans | Adds crunch and fiber |
| Sweet potato fries | Slightly sweet, hearty contrast |
| Sparkling water or tea | Refreshing and keeps it light |
Keep your sides easy. These burgers already bring the flavor.
Storage and Leftovers
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the oven or toaster oven at 350°F for 8 to 10 minutes. This keeps the base crisp and the cheese gooey.
Microwave works in a pinch, but the texture will be softer.
Want to freeze them? Assemble and freeze before broiling. When ready, thaw slightly and broil fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these vegetarian?
Yes. Use meatless crumbles or roasted mushrooms and zucchini.
What if I don’t have a broiler?
Bake at 400°F for about 7 to 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and melted.
Can I use fresh mozzarella?
You can. Just pat it dry before adding so the muffins don’t get soggy.
Are they spicy?
Not unless you add something spicy. But feel free to stir in red pepper flakes or top with jalapeños.
How do I make them party-friendly?
Use mini English muffins or slice regular ones into quarters. Instant finger food.
Wrap Up
This isn’t a fussy meal. It’s not trying to win any awards. It’s just here to make your life easier, your belly fuller, and your dinner feel like a win.
Open-faced pizza burgers bring all the flavor of your favorites with half the effort. They’re quick, satisfying, and adaptable to almost anything you’ve got in your kitchen.
Try them out. Add your spin. Then come back and let me know what topping combo stole the show. I’d love to hear how you made it your own.
You’ve got this.
