The Ultimate Double Cheeseburger Pizza Stack: A Culinary Marvel
Introduction
The Ultimate Double Cheeseburger Pizza Stack is a glorious fusion of two beloved comfort foods: the juicy, savory double cheeseburger and the crispy, cheesy pizza. This towering creation layers seasoned beef patties, melty cheese, pizza sauce, and classic burger toppings between crispy pizza crust “buns.” It’s a show-stopping centerpiece for game day, family gatherings, or any occasion that calls for indulgent, creative cuisine.
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History & Inspiration
This recipe is a modern American invention, born from the ongoing culinary trend of “hybrid foods” that began gaining popularity in the early 2000s. It draws direct inspiration from:
· Burgers: Tracing back to late 19th–early 20th century America, a symbol of quick, satisfying meat cuisine.
· Pizza: With ancient roots, but popularized in its modern form in Naples, Italy, and perfected in the United States.
Combining them represents the innovative, bold spirit of contemporary comfort food, where boundaries are blurred to create new, shareable experiences.
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Ingredients
For the Pizza Crust “Buns” (Makes 2 large crusts)
· 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
· 1 ¼ cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
· 2 ¼ tsp instant yeast (1 packet)
· 2 tbsp olive oil
· 2 tsp sugar
· 2 tsp salt
· Cornmeal or extra flour for dusting
For the Beef Patties & Seasoning
· 4 lbs (1.8 kg) ground beef (80/20 blend for best flavor)
· 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
· 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for firmer patties)
· 2 tsp salt
· 2 tsp black pepper
· 2 tsp garlic powder
· 1 tsp onion powder
· 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
For the Stack Assembly
· 2 cups pizza sauce (or burger-style sauce: mix ketchup, mayo, mustard, relish)
· 1 lb sliced American cheese
· 1 lb shredded mozzarella cheese
· 8-12 slices cheddar cheese
· 1 large onion, thinly sliced
· 2 large tomatoes, sliced
· 1 cup dill pickle slices
· Fresh lettuce leaves
· Optional: cooked bacon strips, jalapeños, sautéed mushrooms
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Methods & Instructions
Step 1: Make the Pizza Crust Dough
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and flour. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours, until doubled.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef Patties
1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, beaten eggs, breadcrumbs (if using), salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Worcestershire sauce.
2. Mix gently with hands until just combined—do not overwork.
3. Divide into 8 equal portions (about 8 oz each). Shape into large, round patties slightly larger than your pizza crust size.
4. Create a slight dimple in the center of each patty to prevent doming during cooking.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 3: Cook the Patties
1. Preheat grill or cast-iron skillet to medium-high heat.
2. Cook patties for 4–5 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
3. During the last minute of cooking, top each patty with a slice of American cheese to melt.
4. Set aside on a plate, tented with foil.
Step 4: Prepare the Pizza Crust “Buns”
1. Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C). Place a pizza stone or inverted baking sheet inside to heat.
2. Punch down risen dough and divide into two equal balls.
3. On a floured surface, roll each ball into a large round, about 12–14 inches in diameter and ¼-inch thick.
4. Carefully transfer one round to a piece of parchment dusted with cornmeal. This will be the bottom “bun.”
5. Par-bake the bottom crust for 5–7 minutes until set but not fully browned. Remove and set aside.
6. Repeat with the second dough round for the top “bun,” but bake for 8–10 minutes until fully cooked and golden. Remove and set aside.
Step 5: Assemble the Stack
1. Layer 1: Place the par-baked bottom crust on a pizza peel or large cutting board. Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce.
2. Layer 2: Sprinkle with ½ cup shredded mozzarella.
3. Layer 3: Place 4 cooked cheeseburger patties evenly over the crust.
4. Layer 4: Add onion slices, tomato slices, pickle slices, and lettuce.
5. Layer 5: Top with remaining 4 cheeseburger patties.
6. Layer 6: Drizzle with more sauce and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and cheddar slices.
7. Final Layer: Carefully place the fully baked top crust over the stack.
Step 6: Final Bake & Serving
1. Transfer the entire stack (on parchment) onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet.
2. Bake for 8–10 minutes at 475°F until cheeses are fully melted and the stack is heated through.
3. Remove carefully. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into wedges with a sharp, serrated knife.
4. Serve immediately with extra pickles, sauces, and napkins!
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Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Serves 8)
Note: This is an indulgent dish best enjoyed in moderation.
· Calories: ~950 kcal
· Protein: 62g
· Carbohydrates: 55g
· Fat: 55g
· Saturated Fat: 24g
· Cholesterol: 220mg
· Sodium: 1800mg
· Fiber: 3g
· Sugar: 6g
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Benefits & Formation
While this is a treat, it offers:
· High Protein: From beef and cheese, supporting muscle repair.
· Customizable: Easily adapted with leaner meat, whole-wheat crust, or extra veggies.
· Shareable Joy: Designed for communal eating, bringing people together.
· Culinary Creativity: Encourages home cooks to experiment with layers, textures, and flavors.
Formation Tips:
· Chill patties before cooking to maintain shape.
· Use parchment paper for easy transfer.
· Let the stack rest before slicing to prevent collapse.
· For a neater presentation, use ring molds or a springform pan to assemble layers.
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For the Lovers of Flavor
This dish is perfect for:
· Burger Enthusiasts who crave that charred, juicy beef and melty cheese.
· Pizza Aficionados who love a crispy, chewy crust and tangy sauce.
· Adventurous Eaters seeking the ultimate savory, chewy, crispy, gooey experience in every bite.
· Crowd-Feeders needing a centerpiece that sparks conversation and satisfies big appetites.
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Conclusion
The Ultimate Double Cheeseburger Pizza Stack is more than a meal—it’s an event. It celebrates the joy of indulgence, the fun of fusion cooking, and the universal love for hearty, cheesy, meaty flavors. While it requires time and effort, the result is a unforgettable culinary creation that impresses at first sight and delights with every slice. Remember to balance such rich meals with lighter, vegetable-focused fare throughout your week. Gather friends, slice boldly, and enjoy this monument to comfort food innovation!.