Ultimate Flavor Fusion: Pizza Burgers (Weight Watchers-Friendly Version)

“My love is pizza shaped. Won’t you have a slice? It’s circular, so there’s enough to go around.”
― Dora J.

Pizza has a magical way of sparking joy and satisfying cravings. If you’re ready to elevate your pizza game to new heights, let’s dive into a delicious recipe that combines the best of both worlds: pizza and burgers! This Weight Watchers-friendly version is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb. 90% lean ground beef
  • 2 cloves minced garlic
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 4 slices part-skim mozzarella cheese
  • 12 slices turkey pepperoni
  • 2 tablespoons garlic powder
  • 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • Hamburger buns (whole wheat or light, as preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce (reduced-sodium, divided)
  • Optional: 1 large egg, beaten (helps hold patties together)

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 5

Instructions:

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix ground beef with garlic, salt, pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and grated Parmesan. If using, mix in the beaten egg to help bind the patties.
  2. Form Patties: Shape the mixture into 12 thin patties.
  3. Cook Patties: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook patties for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. During the last minute of cooking, top each patty with 1 tablespoon of marinara sauce and a slice of mozzarella cheese. Cover and cook until cheese is melted.
  4. Assemble Burgers: Place the cooked patties on hamburger buns. Top with turkey pepperoni and a sprinkle of chopped parsley.
  5. Serve: Enjoy your pizza burgers with your favorite side dishes.

Serving Ideas:

  • Lemon Garlic Roasted Broccoli Salad
  • Fall Harvest Honey Crisp Apple and Kale Salad
  • Spicy Cauliflower Cheese Bites with Tahini Ranch
  • Mediterranean Couscous Salad
  • Spinach Artichoke Dip
  • Creamy Dilled Red Potato Salad

Extra Sides:

  • Stuffed Garlic Balls
  • Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad
  • Fried Spring Onions and Potatoes

Drinks:

  • Dry Vodka Martini
  • Classic Mojito
  • Coca-Cola, Sprite, or Orange Soda

Nutrition Information (per serving):

  • Calories: 320
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Potassium: 500mg
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Vitamin A: 450IU
  • Vitamin C: 10mg
  • Calcium: 250mg
  • Iron: 3.5mg

Weight Watchers SmartPoints:

Total SmartPoints (per serving): 8

Enjoy your Ultimate Pizza Burgers and let us know how you like them! Feel free to share your experiences and any tips you have for making this recipe even better.

Bon appétit!