Crockpot Pizza Burgers are a delicious twist on classic sloppy joes, combining the savory flavors of pizza with the heartiness of a burger. This easy slow-cooker recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, game days, or casual gatherings. With ground beef, rich pizza sauce, melted cheese, and optional toppings like pepperoni and olives, these pizza burgers are a crowd-pleaser that the whole family will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to make – Minimal prep, and the slow cooker does the work.
- Perfect for busy nights – Set it and forget it until mealtime.
- Family-friendly – Kids and adults alike love the pizza-inspired flavors.
- Customizable – Add your favorite pizza toppings for a unique twist.
- Great for parties – A fun, mess-free alternative to traditional burgers.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup pizza sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 6 hamburger buns
- Optional toppings: Pepperoni slices, sliced olives, diced bell peppers
Directions
- Cook the beef – In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
- Slow cook – Transfer the beef to a crockpot and stir in pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cover and cook on low for 2-3 hours.
- Add cheese – Just before serving, mix in the mozzarella and cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and gooey.
- Prepare the buns – Toast hamburger buns if desired.
- Assemble – Scoop the cheesy pizza beef mixture onto the buns. Add optional toppings like pepperoni, olives, or bell peppers.
- Serve – Enjoy warm with a side of fries, salad, or a dipping sauce.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2-3 hours (in the crockpot)
- Total Time: About 3 hours
Variations
- Spicy kick – Add red pepper flakes or jalapeños for heat.
- Meat lovers’ version – Mix in cooked sausage, bacon, or ham.
- Vegetarian option – Swap ground beef for lentils or a plant-based meat alternative.
- Extra cheesy – Use provolone, Parmesan, or a blend of Italian cheeses.
- Low-carb option – Serve over zucchini noodles or in a lettuce wrap instead of buns.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator – Store leftover pizza burger mixture in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer – Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating – Warm in a saucepan over low heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring between each.
FAQs
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner option.
2. Can I make this without a crockpot?
Absolutely! Simmer the mixture on the stovetop for about 15-20 minutes instead.
3. What’s the best pizza sauce to use?
Any store-bought or homemade pizza sauce works well. Marinara sauce is also a great alternative.
4. Can I add vegetables to the mix?
Yes! Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions can be cooked with the beef for extra flavor.
5. How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free buns or serve the mixture over rice or a baked potato.
6. What sides go well with pizza burgers?
Pair with fries, coleslaw, roasted veggies, or a simple green salad.
7. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the beef mixture ahead and store it in the fridge. Reheat before serving.
8. Can I use different cheeses?
Of course! Provolone, Parmesan, or a three-cheese blend will add extra flavor.
9. Can I serve this without buns?
Yes! Use lettuce wraps, tortilla shells, or even over pasta for a different take.
10. How can I make these into sliders?
Use slider buns and serve smaller portions for an appetizer or party snack.
Conclusion
Crockpot Pizza Burgers are a fun, cheesy, and easy meal that brings together the best of pizza and burgers. With minimal prep and a slow-cooker-friendly method, this recipe is perfect for busy nights or feeding a crowd. Customize with your favorite toppings and enjoy a delicious, family-approved meal that everyone will love!
Print
Crockpot Pizza Burgers
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
These Crockpot Pizza Burgers bring together the best of both worlds—savory, juicy beef with the flavors of your favorite pizza! Slow-cooked in pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, and gooey melted cheese, this easy-to-make meal is perfect for busy weeknights or game days. Serve it on toasted buns with classic toppings like pepperoni, olives, or bell peppers for a delicious twist on a traditional burger!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup pizza sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 6 hamburger buns
Optional Toppings:
- Pepperoni slices
- Sliced olives
- Diced bell peppers
Instructions
- Cook the Beef:
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked.
- Drain excess fat.
- Slow Cook the Filling:
- Transfer the cooked beef to a crockpot.
- Stir in pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Cook on low for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Melt the Cheese:
- Just before serving, mix in mozzarella and cheddar cheeses until melted and gooey.
- Assemble the Pizza Burgers:
- Toast the hamburger buns if desired.
- Scoop the cheesy pizza beef mixture onto each bun.
- Add optional toppings like pepperoni, olives, or bell peppers.
- Serve & Enjoy!
Notes
- Want a spicier kick? Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Make it healthier by using ground turkey instead of beef.
- Low-carb option: Skip the bun and serve the mixture over zucchini boats or bell pepper halves.
- Make it ahead: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2-3 hours (slow cooker)
- Category: Main Course, Sandwich
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American