Mozzarella Stuffed Mushroom Pizza Burgers

MOZZARELLA STUFFED MUSHROOM PIZZA BURGERS

1 1/2 lb. lean (at least 80%) ground beef
1 tsp. Italian seasoning
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. pepper
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (4 oz)
1 Tbsp. olive oil or vegetable oil
1 pkg. (8 oz.) sliced fresh mushrooms (about 3 cups)
1 clove garlic, finely chopped
4 hamburger buns, split
1/2 cup pizza sauce, warmed

In large bowl, mix beef, Italian seasoning, salt and pepper. Shape mixture into 8 patties, 4 1/2 inches in diameter and 1/4 inch thick. Press 1/4 cup of the cheese into a ball with hands; press flat into 3 1/2-inch-diameter patty. Repeat with remaining cheese. Place cheese patties on top of 4 beef patties; top with remaining beef patties. Pinch edges together to seal. In 10-inch skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms; cook 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned. Add garlic; cook 1 minute longer. Remove from heat. Heat gas or charcoal grill. Place patties on grill over medium heat. Cover grill; cook 11 to 13 minutes, turning once, until meat thermometer inserted in center of patties reads 160 degrees. During last 2 minutes of cooking, place buns, cut sides down, on grill until toasted. Place burgers on bottom halves of buns. Top with pizza sauce and mushroom mixture. Cover with top halves of buns. Makes 4 sandwiches

*Betty Crocker