Crockpot Pizza Burgers

Busy weeknights call for easy, satisfying meals, and these Crockpot Pizza Burgers check all the boxes. They combine everything you love about a classic pizza—savory sauce, gooey cheese, and zesty pepperoni—into a hearty sandwich that practically makes itself.

It’s the kind of recipe that brings people together, filling the kitchen with the comforting aroma of slow-cooked meat and melted cheese.

I’ve always been a fan of meals that require minimal effort but still feel like a treat, and this one delivers every time. The slow cooker does the heavy lifting, blending the flavors beautifully while you go about your day.

When dinnertime rolls around, all that’s left is to assemble the burgers and enjoy. It’s a fun, family-friendly dish that satisfies both picky eaters and serious comfort food lovers. Plus, it’s a great way to switch up your usual burger routine with a delicious twist!

Short Description

Crockpot Pizza Burgers combine everything you love about pizza into a savory, cheesy, slow-cooked sandwich. Made with seasoned ground beef, tangy pizza sauce, gooey mozzarella, and pepperoni, this easy dish is perfect for a weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing party snack.

Key Ingredients

• 2 lbs ground beef
• 30 oz pizza sauce
• ½ cup pepperoni slices
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• 8 slices mozzarella cheese
• 8 rolls

Tools Needed

• Crockpot (Slow Cooker)
• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Drain any excess grease to prevent a greasy sauce.

Step 2: Add to Crockpot

Transfer the cooked beef to your slow cooker. Pour in the pizza sauce, add the sliced pepperoni, and stir to combine.

Step 3: Slow Cook

Cover and cook on LOW for 3–4 hours or HIGH for 1½–2 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Add the Mozzarella

In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in 1 cup shredded mozzarella. This will thicken the mixture and add a gooey, cheesy texture.

Step 5: Assemble the Burgers

Place a slice of mozzarella on the bottom half of each bun. Spoon the hot pizza burger mixture over the cheese, then top with the remaining bun halves.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Let the burgers sit for a minute or two to allow the cheese to melt slightly. Serve immediately while warm and gooey!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

All the flavors of pizza in a sandwich – Perfect for pizza lovers!

Hands-off slow cooking – Let the crockpot do the work.

Family-friendly – A meal that both kids and adults will love.

Great for meal prep – Leftovers reheat beautifully.

Perfect for parties – An easy dish to serve a crowd.

Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions

Using extra-lean beef without draining – Too much grease will make the filling oily. Solution: Drain after browning or use 85% lean beef.

Skipping the final cheese addition – The shredded mozzarella helps thicken the filling. Solution: Don’t forget to add it in the last 30 minutes!

Overcooking on HIGH – The sauce can become too thick. Solution: If using HIGH, stir occasionally and don’t exceed 2 hours.

Choosing the wrong buns – Some buns turn soggy quickly. Solution: Toast them lightly or use sturdier rolls like ciabatta.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

– Classic Side: Serve with crispy fries or a fresh side salad.
– Game Day Spread: Pair with buffalo wings and garlic bread.
– Family-Style: Set up a topping bar with jalapeños, olives, or extra cheese.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

To reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave in 30-second bursts until heated through.

To freeze: Store the filling (without buns) in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey works well, but it may be leaner, so add 1 tablespoon olive oil for moisture.

2. What type of pizza sauce is best?
Use a thicker pizza sauce for the best consistency. A runny sauce will make the filling too thin.

3. Can I cook this on the stovetop instead?
Absolutely! Simmer everything in a large pot over low heat for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. How do I prevent soggy buns?
Lightly toast the buns before assembling to help them hold up better.

5. Can I add extra toppings?
Yes! Sautéed mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers make great additions.

Tips & Tricks

– Want extra crispy buns? Butter and toast them in a skillet for a few minutes.
– Make it spicy! Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños.
– Double the batch and freeze half for an easy future meal.

Recipe Variations

Pepperoni Lover’s Version – Add an extra ½ cup pepperoni for bolder flavor.

Veggie Pizza Burgers – Swap the pepperoni for sautéed mushrooms, onions, and green peppers.

Hawaiian Style – Mix in ½ cup diced pineapple and use Hawaiian sweet rolls for a tropical twist.

Meat Lover’s Edition – Add crumbled sausage or bacon for an extra meaty bite.

Final Thoughts

These Crockpot Pizza Burgers bring together the best parts of pizza and burgers in one ridiculously easy dish. They’re saucy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, all while being simple enough for a busy weeknight meal. Plus, they’re customizable, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for meal prep.

If you’re looking for a new comfort food classic, this is it. Grab your slow cooker and give these a try—you won’t be disappointed!