Sink your teeth into this decadent and wildly satisfying Double Cheeseburger Pizza Stack. It’s a bold mash-up of two comfort food classics—juicy cheeseburgers and cheesy pizza—stacked high to create the ultimate indulgent meal. Perfect for parties, game day, or just when you’re craving something seriously over-the-top.
Ingredients
For the Burger Patties
- 4 lbs ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor and juiciness)
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional, but great for added structure)
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
For the Pizza Layers
- 3 large pizza crusts (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups pizza sauce (or marinara)
- 4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup pickles, sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 large tomato, sliced thin
- ½ cup cooked bacon bits (optional for extra flavor)
- 2 tablespoons ketchup (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard (for garnish)
- Fresh lettuce (for serving, optional)
Preparing the Burger Patties
Mix the Beef
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, eggs, breadcrumbs (if using), salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to gently mix everything together until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the patties tender.
Form the Patties
Divide the meat into three equal portions. Shape each portion into a large, round patty about the same size as your pizza crusts (10–12 inches in diameter). Press them flat for even cooking.
Cook the Patties
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Cook each patty for 6–8 minutes per side or until cooked through and browned on both sides. Transfer cooked patties to a paper towel-lined plate and let rest.
Assembling the Pizza Stack
Layer One
Place one pizza crust on a baking sheet or pizza stone. Spread a layer of pizza sauce over the crust. Add a generous handful of shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese. Top with one burger patty, followed by a light sprinkle of cheese and a few pickle slices.
Layer Two
Place the second pizza crust on top. Repeat the sauce, cheese, burger patty, and toppings. Add red onion slices and tomato here for added freshness and bite.
Final Layer
Top with the last pizza crust. Spread sauce and a final layer of cheese on top, followed by the third and final burger patty. Add extra cheese on top if you like it extra gooey. Scatter bacon bits across the top for added crunch and flavor.
Baking the Stack
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the assembled stack for 12–15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is fully melted and bubbly. If desired, broil the top for 2–3 minutes for a golden, crispy cheese finish.
Finishing Touches
Drizzle ketchup and mustard across the top in a zigzag pattern for that signature cheeseburger look. Let the pizza stack rest for 5 minutes before slicing into it with a sharp serrated knife.
Garnish with fresh lettuce or serve on the side for contrast.
Tips for Success
- Breadcrumbs Help Hold Shape: If you’re stacking high, the breadcrumbs add helpful structure to the burger patties. Especially recommended if you’re slicing for guests.
- Cook Patties Evenly: Use a cast-iron pan or griddle for consistent browning and to keep juices locked in.
- Balance Wet Ingredients: Avoid overly saucing each layer, as this can lead to sogginess or the stack sliding apart.
- Chill Before Slicing: Letting the whole thing rest before cutting helps it stay intact and makes serving easier.
- Double Up on Cheese: Mixing mozzarella for melt and cheddar for flavor gives a rich, gooey texture.
- Go Big or Mini: Make a jumbo version like above or scale it down to single-serving mini stacks using smaller tortillas and burger sliders.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Version: Add sliced jalapeños or use spicy pepper jack cheese for heat.
- BBQ Burger Stack: Substitute pizza sauce for barbecue sauce and top with caramelized onions.
- Breakfast Style: Swap burger patties for sausage patties, use scrambled eggs, and top with hollandaise instead of ketchup and mustard.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook the patties and assemble the entire stack up to a day ahead. Cover and refrigerate. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through and cheese is melted.
What’s the best type of cheese to use?
A blend of mozzarella (for melt) and sharp cheddar (for bite) works best. Feel free to experiment with American, provolone, or gouda for variation.
Can I grill the burger patties instead of pan-cooking?
Absolutely. Grilling adds a delicious smoky flavor that enhances the burger taste even more.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
You can freeze cooked burger patties and pizza crusts separately. Assemble and bake fresh for best texture.
What can I serve with the Double Cheeseburger Pizza Stack?
Serve with fries, onion rings, or a crisp green salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes! Use plant-based ground meat or burger patties, and load up on veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach for the layers.
Final Thoughts
The Ultimate Double Cheeseburger Pizza Stack is not just a meal—it’s a feast. It brings together the best parts of two world-famous comfort foods into one towering creation that will wow your friends and family. Customize it, scale it, or devour it just as is—this epic dish is destined to become a legend in your kitchen.