Irresistible Pizza Stuffed Burgers on Flatout Foldits: Your Ultimate Healthy Grilling Recipe
The sizzle of the grill, the aroma of a perfectly cooked patty – for many, grilling season is a cherished time. But for passionate BBQ enthusiasts like me, living in places like Canada, the joy of cooking outdoors isn’t limited by the calendar. Even when temperatures plummet to -30°C, the call of the barbecue remains strong! There’s something undeniably satisfying about a homemade burger, and I’ve always been on a quest to create simple yet incredibly flavorful variations. This particular recipe for Pizza Stuffed Burgers was born out of a desire for something exciting and a need to use up some pepperoni in the fridge – and the rest, as they say, is delicious history. These aren’t just any burgers; they’re a hearty, satisfying meal packed with the beloved flavors of pizza, all while being surprisingly light on points for those following a weight management plan.
One of the biggest dilemmas when enjoying a burger is often the bun. Traditional burger buns can quickly add a significant number of “points” or calories, making it a difficult choice for many. That’s where Flatout Foldits come into play as a true game-changer. These versatile flatbreads are absolutely perfect for burgers, and the 5-grain and flax variety I often use are an incredibly low 2 SmartPoints each. This allows me to savor a genuinely delicious burger experience, complete with bread, without compromising my daily point goals. Finding Flatout breads near you is easy; simply use their convenient store locator. While I’ve kept this recipe simple with pepperoni and cheese, you can easily customize these pizza stuffed beef burgers by adding additional toppings directly into the meat mixture or nestled within the burger’s core. Each of these incredibly flavorful stuffed burgers is just 4 SmartPoints, making for an outstanding and balanced meal when paired with a Flatout bread for a total of 6 SmartPoints.
Imagine biting into a juicy beef patty, only to discover a warm, gooey center of melted mozzarella, savory pepperoni, and zesty pizza sauce. These burgers transform a classic into an exciting culinary adventure, bringing the best of pizza and burgers together in one incredible bite. They are filling, satisfying, and bursting with flavor, proving that healthy eating doesn’t have to be bland or boring. This recipe is designed to be straightforward, making it accessible even for novice grill masters, yet delivers results that will impress everyone at your table.
Pizza Stuffed Burgers on Flatout Foldits
Ingredients
- 1 lb raw extra lean ground beef, you can substitute for ground turkey or chicken if preferred for a leaner option
- 2 Tbsp bread crumbs
- 1 Tbsp pizza sauce, ensure it’s pizza sauce, not general pasta sauce, for that authentic flavor
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- FOR STUFFING THE BURGERS
- 1/4 cup reduced fat shredded mozzarella, using a reduced-fat variety helps keep the points low without sacrificing flavor; Trader Joe’s brand is a good option
- 12 slices of pepperoni, check product reviews for recommended brands and nutritional information to align with your dietary goals
- 4 tsp pizza sauce
- Italian seasoning, for an extra sprinkle of flavor
Instructions
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Begin by preheating your barbecue grill to a medium-high heat. Allow it to warm up thoroughly to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the raw extra lean ground beef, bread crumbs, 1 tablespoon of pizza sauce, and 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning. Mix gently until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the burgers tender.
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Divide the seasoned meat mixture into 4 equal portions. Each portion should weigh approximately 4 ounces.
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For each portion, break it in half and then carefully flatten both pieces into thin patties, ensuring they are roughly the same size and thickness. These will form the top and bottom of your stuffed burger.
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Take one flattened patty and spread 1 teaspoon of pizza sauce over it. Layer with 3 slices of pepperoni and 1 tablespoon of shredded mozzarella cheese. Finish with a light sprinkle of Italian seasoning. Place the second flattened patty on top and carefully seal the edges all around to completely enclose the filling. This prevents the delicious stuffing from escaping while cooking.
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Place the stuffed burgers on the preheated barbecue grill. Cook for about 20 minutes in total, turning them a few times throughout the cooking process to ensure they cook evenly and are cooked through to your desired doneness. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for ground beef.
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Once cooked, remove from the grill. Serve your piping hot pizza stuffed burgers on a Flatout Foldit to maintain a low point count and enjoy a satisfying meal.
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Each burger (without the Flatout bread) is calculated at 4 SmartPoints (on the blue, green, and purple plans) or 5 Points Plus.
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Nutritional information per burger (excluding bread): Calories 192, Fat 7.3g, Saturated Fat 2.5g, Carbohydrates 3.8g, Fiber 0.6g, Sugars 0.4g, Protein 28.5g.
Additional Info
Why Stuffed Burgers Are a Game Changer
Stuffed burgers elevate the traditional burger experience to a whole new level. The magic lies in the surprise filling, which not only adds an explosion of flavor and texture with every bite but also ensures a wonderfully juicy patty. No more dry burgers! The sealed filling, in this case, a delectable mix of melted cheese, spicy pepperoni, and savory pizza sauce, creates an internal steam pocket that keeps the meat moist while infusing it with incredible taste. This innovative approach also allows for endless customization, transforming a simple ground beef patty into a gourmet creation tailored to your cravings. For health-conscious eaters, it means you can pack in flavorful, lighter ingredients without compromising on the satisfying experience of a hearty burger.
The Versatility and Health Benefits of Flatout Foldits
Flatout Foldits are more than just a bread; they’re an essential component of this healthy and delicious burger recipe. Their unique, flexible design makes them ideal for cradling a robust stuffed burger without falling apart. What truly sets them apart, especially for those mindful of their diet, is their low SmartPoints value. The 5-grain and flax variety, for instance, offers a satisfying serving for just 2 SmartPoints. This enables you to enjoy the full burger experience, complete with a bread component, while staying well within your nutritional goals. Flatout breads are known for their great taste and texture, ensuring that opting for a healthier choice doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or enjoyment. They are a staple in many kitchens for their versatility, working wonderfully for wraps, pizzas, and, of course, our irresistible pizza stuffed burgers. Don’t forget to use the Flatout store locator to find these fantastic breads at a retailer near you.
Customizing Your Pizza Stuffed Burger Experience
While pepperoni and mozzarella offer a classic pizza flavor, the beauty of these stuffed burgers lies in their adaptability. You can truly make this recipe your own by experimenting with different fillings. Consider adding finely diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions to the beef mixture for added vegetables and texture. For a spicier kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños inside could be fantastic. Other cheese options like provolone or a mix of Italian cheeses would also work wonderfully. If you’re a fan of olives, chop some up and mix them with the pepperoni. You could even incorporate a small amount of cooked, crumbled sausage for an extra layer of savory depth. Remember, the goal is to keep the filling modest so it doesn’t overwhelm the patty or make sealing difficult, but feel free to let your culinary imagination run wild!
Essential Grilling Tips for Perfect Stuffed Burgers
Achieving a perfectly cooked, juicy stuffed burger requires a few simple techniques:
- Choose Quality Meat: Starting with extra lean ground beef ensures a healthier burger, but you can also opt for ground turkey or chicken for an even leaner alternative, as noted in the ingredients.
- Mind Your Mixing: When combining the meat with bread crumbs, pizza sauce, and Italian seasoning, mix just enough to incorporate the ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough burgers.
- Forming Even Patties: The key to a successful stuffed burger is creating two thin, equally sized patties for each burger. This ensures even cooking and a secure seal for the filling. A burger press can be helpful, but your hands work perfectly fine.
- Secure the Seal: Take extra care when pressing the edges of the two patties together to seal in the filling. A good seal prevents the cheese from melting out and creating a messy grill (and a less juicy burger!).
- Consistent Grill Temperature: Preheat your grill to a consistent medium-high heat. Too hot, and the outside will burn before the inside cooks; too low, and you risk a dry burger.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Give each burger enough space to cook evenly. This also helps maintain consistent grill temperature.
- Resist the Press: Avoid pressing down on the burgers with your spatula while they’re cooking. This squeezes out precious juices and flavor, leading to a dry patty.
- Know When It’s Done: For ground beef, the safe internal temperature is 160°F (71°C). A meat thermometer is your best friend here. For turkey or chicken, it’s 165°F (74°C).
- Rest Your Burgers: After removing them from the grill, let the burgers rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the patty, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bite.
Serving Suggestions to Complement Your Pizza Stuffed Burgers
While the Flatout Foldits are the recommended vessel for these delightful burgers, there are many ways to enhance your meal. For a complete and healthy feast, consider pairing your pizza stuffed burgers with a fresh green salad, perhaps with a light vinaigrette. Grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus make an excellent side dish, complementing the smoky flavors of the burger. If you’re looking for a bit more substance, a serving of sweet potato fries or a quinoa salad would be a fantastic addition. Don’t forget extra pizza sauce for dipping, or a sprinkle of fresh basil for an aromatic finish. These burgers are substantial enough to be the star of your meal, but thoughtful side dishes can elevate the entire dining experience.
A Weight Watchers Friendly Delight
This recipe truly shines for those following Weight Watchers or simply looking for a healthier alternative to traditional burgers. By utilizing extra lean ground beef, reduced-fat mozzarella, and the incredibly point-friendly Flatout Foldits, we’ve created a meal that feels indulgent but fits perfectly into a balanced diet. Each burger, without the bread, is a mere 4 SmartPoints across all three plans (Blue, Green, and Purple), or 5 Points Plus, offering substantial protein and flavor for a minimal caloric investment. Adding a 2 SmartPoint Flatout Foldit still keeps your entire meal at a remarkably low 6 SmartPoints. This means you can enjoy a hearty, flavorful, and satisfying burger night without guilt or feeling deprived. It’s proof that healthy eating can be exciting and incredibly tasty!
Conclusion: Your New Go-To Burger Recipe!
Whether you’re a year-round grilling enthusiast or just looking for a fantastic new burger to add to your rotation, these Pizza Stuffed Burgers on Flatout Foldits are sure to become a family favorite. They’re easy to make, packed with incredible pizza flavor, and offer a fantastic healthy option thanks to smart ingredient choices. Say goodbye to boring diet meals and hello to juicy, cheesy, pepperoni-infused deliciousness. Fire up that grill, gather your ingredients, and prepare to impress with this irresistible, Weight Watchers-friendly recipe. Don’t forget to share your creations using #drizzlemeskinny!