Are you ready to take your burger game to the next level? If you love the gooey goodness of cheese, the savory flavors of pizza, and the convenience of an air fryer and Crockpot, then this Air Fryer Cheesy Crockpot Pizza Burger recipe is just what you need! This easy recipe combines the best of both worlds, creating a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. Let’s dive into this cheesy delight that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
To whip up these scrumptious Air Fryer Cheesy Crockpot Pizza Burgers, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Burger Patties:
1 pound ground beef (or turkey/chicken for a lighter option)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup pizza sauce (plus extra for serving)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly:
4 hamburger buns
1 cup sliced pepperoni (or your favorite pizza toppings)
Additional cheese for topping (optional)
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Prepare the Burger Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, shredded mozzarella cheese, pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. The cheese will add a delightful gooeyness to your burgers!
Form the Patties
Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into burger patties. Make sure they are slightly larger than your buns, as they will shrink a bit while cooking.
Slow Cook the Patties
Place the burger patties in your Crockpot. Pour a little extra pizza sauce over the top of each patty to keep them moist and flavorful. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The slow cooking process will infuse the flavors and make the burgers incredibly tender.
Air Fry for a Cheesy Finish
Once the patties are cooked, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Carefully transfer the patties to the air fryer basket. If desired, sprinkle additional cheese on top of each patty. Air fry for about 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Assemble Your Pizza Burgers
Toast your hamburger buns in the air fryer for a couple of minutes until golden brown. Place a cheesy burger patty on each bun, add your favorite toppings (like pepperoni or veggies), and drizzle with extra pizza sauce. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if you like!
Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your Air Fryer Cheesy Crockpot Pizza Burgers with a side of fries or a fresh salad. Enjoy the cheesy, pizza-flavored goodness that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
Cooking Tips
Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients for the burger patties, be careful not to overmix. This can make the burgers tough.
Use Lean Meat: For a healthier option, consider using lean ground turkey or chicken. Just be mindful that they may require a bit more seasoning.
Check for Doneness: Ensure your burgers reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for beef and 165°F (74°C) for poultry.
Ways to Customize Your Pizza Burgers
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility! Here are some fun ways to customize your Air Fryer Cheesy Crockpot Pizza Burgers:
Different Meats: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian option.
Toppings Galore: Get creative with your toppings! Try adding sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, olives, or even jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Cheese Variations: While mozzarella is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack for an extra flavor boost.
Sauce Swaps: Instead of pizza sauce, try using barbecue sauce or pesto for a unique twist on flavor.
Conclusion
There you have it! An easy and delicious Air Fryer Cheesy Crockpot Pizza Burger recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its cheesy goodness and customizable options, you can make this meal your own. So why not gather your ingredients and give it a try? We’d love to hear how your pizza burgers turn out! Share your results and any creative twists you added in the comments below. Happy cooking!
