Description
A juicy grilled beef burger inspired by classic pizza flavors, topped with melted mozzarella, warm pizza sauce, and fresh basil.
Ingredients
1 pound lean ground beef (90–93% lean)
1 ½ teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon lightly crushed fennel seeds
½ teaspoon fine salt
⅛ teaspoon black pepper
⅓ cup unsweetened pizza sauce
4 slices mozzarella cheese
4 burger buns or large dinner rolls
Fresh basil leaves
Optional: lettuce, red onion, tomato slices
Instructions
1. Preheat an outdoor grill to high heat for indirect grilling or medium-high for direct grilling. If cooking indoors, heat a grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a mixing bowl combine ground beef, Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, fennel seeds, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently.
3. Divide the mixture into four portions and shape into patties about ¼ inch thick. Press a small indentation in the center.
4. Place patties on the grill and cook for about 4 minutes.
5. Flip and cook for another 2–3 minutes.
6. Top each patty with a slice of mozzarella cheese and close the grill lid. Cook 1–2 minutes until melted.
7. Remove patties and let them rest for 2 minutes.
8. Warm the pizza sauce in a small saucepan or microwave.
9. Place patties on buns, spoon warm sauce over each burger, add basil and optional toppings, then serve.
Notes
Do not overmix the beef to keep patties tender.
Pressing a small indentation in the center helps burgers cook evenly.
Lightly toasting the buns improves texture and prevents sogginess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Easy Dinner Ideas
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American