Description
These Crockpot Pizza Burgers combine the flavors of a classic pizza with the convenience of a slow cooker. Ground beef and Italian sausage are cooked with peppers, onions, and a rich tomato-based sauce, then topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses for a hearty, cheesy sandwich perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1/2 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 1 green bell pepper (finely chopped)
- 1 (15-ounce) can pizza sauce or marinara
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 6–8 hamburger buns or sandwich rolls
Instructions
- Brown the Meats: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet and cook for another 3–4 minutes until softened, incorporating their flavors into the meat mixture.
- Transfer to Slow Cooker: Move the meat and vegetable mixture into the slow cooker bowl, spreading it evenly.
- Add Seasonings and Sauce: Stir in the pizza sauce, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using, ensuring everything is well combined.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on the low setting for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally to blend flavors and prevent sticking.
- Melt the Cheese: Approximately 15 minutes before serving, add the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese into the slow cooker. Stir them in until melted and fully combined with the meat mixture.
- Serve: Spoon the cheesy pizza meat mixture onto toasted hamburger buns or sandwich rolls while warm, and enjoy immediately for best flavor.
Notes
- You can prepare the filling ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it for quick meals later.
- For a pizza “supreme” twist, add sliced pepperoni, olives, or mushrooms to the crockpot before cooking.
- Serve these pizza burgers with a green salad or baked potato wedges to complete the meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American