Ingredients: 4 lbs ground beef, 2 eggs lightly beaten, 1 cup breadcrumbs optional, 2 tsp salt, 2 tsp black pepper, 2 tsp garlic powder, 2 tsp onion powder, 1 tsp smoked paprika optional, 2 cups pizza sauce or marinara, 12 to 16 slices cheddar or American cheese, 12 to 16 slices mozzarella cheese, 1 large pizza crust or 2 medium crusts, 1 cup sliced pickles optional, 1 small onion thinly sliced optional, sesame seeds for topping optional, melted butter for brushing crust.
Instructions: In a large bowl, mix ground beef with eggs, breadcrumbs, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika until well combined. Divide the meat into 4 equal portions and shape into thin patties slightly larger than the crust size. Cook the patties in a hot skillet over medium-high heat for about 3 to 4 minutes per side until browned and cooked through, then set aside. Preheat oven to 375°F or 190°C. Place the pizza crust on a baking tray and lightly brush the edges with melted butter. Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce over the crust. Add one beef patty, then a layer of cheddar and mozzarella slices. Add another beef patty, more sauce, and more cheese. Repeat stacking until you have a tall layered stack, finishing with cheese on top. Sprinkle sesame seeds around the crust edge if desired. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly and the crust is golden. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Add pickles and onions on top or inside slices if you like the classic cheeseburger flavor.
Serving suggestion: Serve hot with extra pizza sauce or burger sauce on the side and a simple salad or fries.