Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb ground pork
- ½ cup seasoned Italian breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp salt-pepper-garlic-powder blend
- 1 tbsp smoky BBQ seasoning
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup marinara sauce, warmed
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 4 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced or shredded
- 4 brioche burger buns, split and lightly toasted
- Olive oil or cooking spray, for griddle
Instructions
- Mix the meatball base. In a bowl, gently combine beef, pork, breadcrumbs, eggs, salt-pepper-garlic blend, and BBQ seasoning—don’t overwork.
- Shape meatballs. Form the mixture into 2–3 oz balls and set aside.
- Heat and oil. Preheat your griddle or cast-iron skillet over medium-high until it shimmers; lightly coat with oil.
- Smash and sear. Place meatballs on the hot surface. Using a heavy spatula or burger press, smash each one into a thin patty. Hold for 10–15 seconds to set the crust, then cook for 1–2 minutes until deeply browned.
- Flip and sauce. Flip each patty. Immediately spoon ~2 tbsp marinara onto each, sprinkle with Parmesan, then top with mozzarella. Cover the griddle (or tent with foil) to let the cheese melt.
- Toast the buns. While cheese melts, butter cut sides of the buns and place them cut-side down on the griddle for about 30 seconds, until golden.
- Assemble burgers. Spread a thin layer of marinara on each bottom bun, top with a cheesy meatball patty, then finish with the top bun. Press gently and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Griddle
- Cuisine: Italian American