A cheesy Italian-style beef burger at approximately 380 calories. Lean beef patties topped with mozzarella and baked in tomato sauce.
These Pizza Burgers take a lean beef patty seasoned with parsley, basil, and oregano, sear it, then finish it baked under melted mozzarella and tomato sauce. It is a genuinely satisfying twist on burger night at around 380 calories and 9 WW Classic Points per serving.
Recipe Info
Serves: 4 | Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Calories per serving: ~380
Nutrition per Serving (Estimated)
Protein: 35g | Fat: 20g | Carbohydrates: 6g | Fiber: 1g
WW Classic Points: Approximately 9 points per serving (estimated from the original 12-point recipe, updated to reflect a smaller portion of lean beef and less oil). Note: This estimate is based on the legacy WW points system and is provided as a general reference only.
Ingredients
- 500g / 1.1lb lean minced beef (5% fat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil, or 1.5 teaspoons fresh, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, or 1.5 teaspoons fresh, finely chopped
- Olive oil spray
- 4 slices reduced-fat mozzarella cheese
- 175ml / 6fl oz prepared tomato sauce or passata
- 20g / 0.75oz grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven. Preheat to 200C (400F / Gas Mark 6).
- Season and shape. Mix the beef with the salt, parsley, basil, and oregano. Shape into 4 burgers, each about 2cm (3/4in) thick.
- Sear the burgers. Lightly spray a frying pan with olive oil spray and heat over medium-high heat. Cook the burgers until well browned on both sides, about 3 to 4 minutes per side.
- Top and bake. Arrange the burgers in a shallow baking dish, making sure they are not touching. Top each with a slice of mozzarella, pour on the tomato sauce, and sprinkle with Parmesan.
- Finish in the oven. Bake for 15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve open-faced on a toasted whole-grain bun
- Pair with a crisp green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette
- Add roasted zucchini or peppers on the side
- Scatter fresh basil leaves on top before serving
- Serve with a small portion of oven-baked sweet potato wedges
Tips and Variations
- Lean 5% fat beef mince keeps these burgers juicy without excess grease
- Reduced-fat mozzarella melts just as well as full-fat and saves calories
- Ground turkey or chicken works well as a lighter alternative to beef
- Add a few sliced mushrooms or bell peppers under the cheese for extra vegetables
- A pinch of chili flakes in the sauce adds a nice kick
Why This Recipe Works
Searing the burgers first locks in flavor before they finish baking under the cheese and sauce, so they stay juicy rather than drying out in the oven. Using a leaner beef and swapping to reduced-fat mozzarella keeps the classic pizza-burger flavor intact while trimming a meaningful amount of fat from the original. This is proof that a cheesy, saucy burger can still fit into a balanced day of eating.
Storage and Reheating
Store cooled burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 180C (350F) oven until warmed through, or microwave individual portions. These also freeze well for up to 2 months.
Disclaimer: Nutritional information is estimated and may vary based on specific ingredients, brands, and portion sizes used. This recipe is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional dietary or medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for guidance tailored to your individual needs.
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