Picture this: the satisfying aroma of deliciously browned beef mingling with the rich scent of marinara sauce wafting through your kitchen. As the cheese begins to melt and bubble, you can’t help but feel the anticipation building for a meal that’s both indulgent and guilt-free. That’s right—this is the magic of my Low Carb Stuffed Pizza Burgers.
I created this recipe on a particularly busy weekend when I craved something hearty yet healthy. The best part? These burgers deliver all the flavor of your favorite pizza without the carb overload. Whether you’re trying to stick to a low-carb lifestyle or simply looking to spice up your meal rotation, these stuffed burgers are an absolute crowd-pleaser.
With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up this delicious dish in under 30 minutes. Perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings, these Low Carb Stuffed Pizza Burgers are sure to impress your family and friends! Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking!
Why are Low Carb Stuffed Pizza Burgers a must-try?
Flavor Explosion: Each bite is a delightful mix of juicy beef and gooey cheese, topped with zesty marinara, satisfying all your pizza cravings without the carbs.
Quick & Easy: Whip these up in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights!
Kid-Approved: Watch your little ones devour these burgers; they’ll never notice they’re low-carb!
Versatile: Customize with your favorite toppings—pepperoni, veggies, or fresh herbs for added flair.
Hearty & Healthy: Packed with 50g of protein per serving, these burgers fuel your day without compromising taste. Enjoy every mouthful!
Low Carb Stuffed Pizza Burgers Ingredients
Delight in these tasty, guilt-free burgers!
For the Burgers
• 20 oz ground beef – choose a lean blend for a healthier option!
• 4 slices mozzarella cheese – ensures a gooey, melty topping that’ll satisfy your cheese cravings.
• Steak seasoning or salt and pepper – enhances the beefy flavor, giving it that savory kick.
For the Stuffing
• 2 string cheese, mozzarella – this adds a fun, cheesy surprise inside each burger!
For the Sauce
• 1 cup marinara – gives a burst of Italian flavor, bringing that pizza essence right into your burger!
How to Make Low Carb Stuffed Pizza Burgers
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Preheat your oven to 350°F. This sets the perfect stage for your cheesy, delicious burgers to bake to perfection. Your kitchen will soon be filled with mouthwatering aromas!
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Shape the burger patties by making 8 thin pieces from the ground beef. Keeping them thin helps ensure they cook thoroughly and evenly, ready for that flavorful stuffing!
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Stuff the burgers by cutting the string cheese into 8 equal pieces. Place 2 pieces on top of 4 of the burger patties. Top each with a plain burger patty, sealing the cheese inside to create your scrumptious cheese-stuffed burgers. Sprinkle a bit of steak seasoning or salt and pepper for an extra flavor boost!
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Brown the burgers in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook until the bottoms are beautifully golden brown. Flip them over gently, and then top each burger with ¼ cup of marinara sauce, followed by a slice of mozzarella cheese for ultimate cheesy goodness.
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Add more marinara sauce into the skillet if desired; it’ll create a delicious pool of sauce as the burgers cook. This enhances flavor and keeps everything juicy!
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Bake the burgers for about 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, enveloping your stuffed creations in a glorious cheese blanket.
Optional: Serve with fresh basil leaves for a vibrant touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Low Carb Stuffed Pizza Burgers
Fridge: Store cooked burgers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure they are cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap each burger tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of marinara sauce to keep them moist.
Expert Tips for Low Carb Stuffed Pizza Burgers
- Don’t Overpack: Make sure to seal the cheese well inside the burger to prevent it from leaking out while cooking.
- Ideal Thickness: Keep the burger patties thin for even cooking. Thick patties may result in a longer cook time and undercooked centers.
- Seasoning Matters: Generously season both sides of your patties to enhance the beef flavor. Don’t skip this step!
- Cheese Choice: Opt for fresh mozzarella for a melt-in-your-mouth experience. Pre-shredded cheese may not melt as smoothly.
- Serve Fresh: These Low Carb Stuffed Pizza Burgers are best enjoyed fresh from the oven. If you have leftovers, reheat gently for best results!
Make Ahead Options
These Low Carb Stuffed Pizza Burgers are perfect for meal prep and make your busy weeknights a breeze! You can prepare the burger patties and stuff them with cheese up to 24 hours in advance; simply layer them in an airtight container with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Additionally, the marinara sauce can be portioned out and refrigerated for up to 3 days before you’re ready to cook them. When it’s time to serve, just brown the burgers in the skillet, add the marinara sauce, top with mozzarella cheese, and bake them until bubbly for delicious, freshly cooked results with minimal effort. This makes dinner time not only easier but as delicious as if you just made them!
What to Serve with Low Carb Stuffed Pizza Burgers?
Creating a memorable dining experience goes beyond just the main dish, and these delightful burgers are no exception.
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Zucchini Fries: These crispy, oven-baked fries offer a satisfying crunch, enhancing the juicy texture of your burgers. They’re a fresh, low-carb alternative to traditional fries that everyone will love.
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Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine and creamy dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavor of the burgers. The crunchy croutons add a delightful element that balances the dish beautifully.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized brings an earthy sweetness that complements the savory notes of the burgers. They add a vibrant splash of color to your plate, making every meal feel special.
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Garlic Butter Mushrooms: Juicy, sautéed mushrooms in garlic butter create a luxurious side that pairs wonderfully with cheesy burgers. The umami flavor elevates the entire meal, ensuring every bite is an indulgent treat.
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Marinara Dipping Sauce: Serve a side of warm marinara for dipping your burgers into. It enhances that pizza experience, marrying the flavors seamlessly and making every bite so satisfying.
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Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon cleanses the palate and adds a touch of brightness. It’s a light, invigorating drink choice that accentuates the hearty flavors of your burgers without overwhelming them.
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Chocolate Avocado Mousse: For dessert, indulge in a creamy chocolate avocado mousse. This rich yet nutritious sweet treat feels like a guilty pleasure but aligns with your low-carb meal, leaving everyone satisfied.
These pairings bring together flavors and textures to create an unforgettable dining experience around your Low Carb Stuffed Pizza Burgers!
Low Carb Stuffed Pizza Burgers Variations
Feel free to get creative with these amazing burgers; each twist brings a new flavor adventure!
- Turkey Swap: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter option that still satisfies your cravings.
- Spicy Kick: Add thinly sliced jalapeños to the cheese stuffing for a deliciously spicy surprise in every bite.
- Herbed Delight: Mix fresh basil or oregano into the ground beef for a burst of aromatic flavor reminiscent of your favorite pizza.
- Pesto Upgrade: Spread a layer of basil pesto between the patties to elevate the Italian flavor of your stuffed burgers.
- Veggie Boost: Incorporate finely chopped bell peppers or mushrooms directly into the beef mix for extra texture and nutrition.
- Cheesy Variety: Experiment with different cheese blends, like pepper jack or cheddar, for a unique flavor profile in each burger.
- Bun Option: Serve them on lettuce wraps instead of these traditional buns, low-carb style without sacrificing enjoyment!
- Garlic Infusion: Mix minced garlic into the beef for an irresistible aroma and taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Low Carb Stuffed Pizza Burgers Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best ground beef for my burgers?
Absolutely! When picking ground beef for your Low Carb Stuffed Pizza Burgers, aim for a lean blend, like 80/20 (80% lean meat to 20% fat). This balance ensures juicy flavor while keeping the fat content in check. Avoid any meat with a lot of liquid, as it may result in soggy burgers. Freshness is key, so ask your butcher or check the packaging date.
What’s the best way to store leftover burgers?
Very! You can store cooked Low Carb Stuffed Pizza Burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let them cool to room temperature before sealing to keep them fresh. If you’re planning on keeping them longer, then opt for freezing them!
How can I freeze these stuffed burgers properly?
Of course! To freeze your Low Carb Stuffed Pizza Burgers, first, let them cool completely. Then, wrap each burger tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring all surfaces are covered. Place them in a freezer-safe bag for extra protection against freezer burn. They can be kept for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I adjust the recipe for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! If you’re looking to make these burgers dairy-free, you could use a plant-based cheese that melts well. For gluten-free needs, just ensure that your marinara sauce is labeled gluten-free. Always check the ingredients if you’re accommodating allergies—double-checking sauces and seasonings can be key!
What if my cheese is leaking out during cooking?
Don’t worry! If you notice that the cheese is oozing out, it might be because the patties weren’t sealed well. When forming your burgers, ensure the edges are pressed tightly together. You can also try chilling them for about 15-20 minutes before cooking; this helps reinforce the structure and keeps that cheesy goodness locked inside!
How long do I bake the burgers for?
For the most gooey, cheesy results, bake your Low Carb Stuffed Pizza Burgers for about 15 minutes at 350°F. Keep an eye on them; you’ll know they’re done when the cheese is all melty and bubbly. If you like a bit of crisp on your cheese, you can broil them for an additional minute or so at the end, just watch closely so they don’t burn!
Irresistible Low Carb Stuffed Pizza Burgers You’ll Crave!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Shape the burger patties by making 8 thin pieces from the ground beef.
- Stuff the burgers by cutting the string cheese into 8 equal pieces. Place 2 pieces on top of 4 of the burger patties. Top each with a plain burger patty.
- Brown the burgers in a large skillet over medium heat until golden brown.
- Top each burger with ¼ cup of marinara sauce and a slice of mozzarella cheese.
- Bake the burgers for about 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
