Cheeseburger Pie: A Hearty, Comforting Classic for Family Dinners
When it comes to quick and hearty meals, nothing beats the simplicity and satisfaction of cheeseburger pie. Combining the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the convenience of a savory pie, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. Packed with ground beef, melted cheese, and a buttery crust, cheeseburger pie is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
For more comforting casserole dishes, check out this Crockpot Potato Soup that pairs perfectly with savory pies like this one.
Why Cheeseburger Pie is a Must-Try Recipe
This dish is not only simple to make but also versatile, allowing you to customize the ingredients to suit your tastes. Whether you’re looking for a gluten-free option, a low-carb version, or a vegetarian twist, cheeseburger pie can be adapted easily.
- Quick to prepare: Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, making this dish a go-to when you need something fast and delicious.
- Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy, beefy flavors that mimic a classic cheeseburger.
- Customizable: From swapping ground beef with turkey to adding a variety of toppings, the possibilities are endless.
For another quick and easy dinner idea, try this Slow Cooker Baked Ziti—another family favorite that’s just as filling and comforting.
Ingredients for Cheeseburger Pie
Here’s a list of the key ingredients you’ll need to make a classic cheeseburger pie:
- Ground Beef: The base of the dish, providing that essential burger flavor.
- Onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the beef mixture.
- Cheddar Cheese: For a rich, gooey cheese layer that mimics a cheeseburger’s melted cheese.
- Bisquick Mix or Pie Crust: For the base, or you can make this dish crustless for a low-carb option.
- Eggs: Helps bind everything together and adds richness to the pie.
- Milk: Adds moisture and lightness to the batter.
- Tomato Ketchup or Paste: Provides a slightly sweet and tangy flavor, reminiscent of a classic cheeseburger.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cheeseburger Pie
1. Prepare the Ground Beef Filling
Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. As the beef cooks, add chopped onions and a pinch of salt. Cook until the onions become soft and translucent, and the beef is fully browned. If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add some diced jalapenos or chili powder to the mix.
Steps:
- Brown the Beef: Heat a skillet and cook the beef, stirring occasionally to break it up.
- Add Seasoning: Mix in salt, pepper, and any other seasonings like Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor.
- Drain the Fat: Once the beef is fully cooked, drain off the excess fat to prevent the pie from becoming greasy.
For a variation of this dish, check out this Taco Pasta Recipe which combines similar ingredients but in a Mexican-inspired pasta dish.
2. Prepare the Pie Crust (or Go Crustless)
You have two options for the crust: using a pre-made pie crust, or creating your own batter using Bisquick. If you’re looking for a low-carb alternative, you can make a crustless version by omitting the crust entirely.
Steps for Pie Crust:
- Pre-Bake the Crust: If you’re using a pie crust, pre-bake it for about 10 minutes to ensure it stays crispy after you add the filling.
- Prepare the Bisquick Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together Bisquick, eggs, and milk. This will form a light batter that bakes into a golden crust as the pie cooks.
3. Assemble and Bake the Cheeseburger Pie
Assembling the Pie:
- Spread the cooked beef mixture into the pie crust or directly into the greased pie dish if you’re going crustless.
- Pour the Bisquick mixture over the beef, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese on top for that delicious melted finish.
Baking:
- Bake the pie in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is set.
Let the pie cool for about 10 minutes before slicing to allow the layers to set.
Popular Variations of Cheeseburger Pie
Cheeseburger pie is highly adaptable. Here are some of the most popular variations:
1. Bacon Cheeseburger Pie
Add crumbled, cooked bacon to the beef mixture for extra flavor and texture. You can also sprinkle bacon on top for a crispy finish.
2. Low-Carb Cheeseburger Pie
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, skip the crust and pour the filling directly into the dish. This creates a casserole-like pie with fewer carbs.
3. Vegetarian Cheeseburger Pie
Swap the ground beef with a plant-based alternative like Beyond Meat or Impossible Burger. The result is a hearty, meatless pie that’s just as satisfying.
For another crowd-pleasing variation, check out this Dorito Chicken Casserole, which features crunchy Doritos and cheesy chicken in a casserole form.
Serving Suggestions for Cheeseburger Pie
To complete your meal, serve cheeseburger pie with these classic sides:
- Fries or Sweet Potato Fries: For the full “burger” experience, pair the pie with crispy fries.
- Simple Salad: Balance the richness of the pie with a light salad of mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette.
- Steamed Vegetables: For a healthier option, pair with steamed broccoli, green beans, or carrots.
Nutritional Breakdown and Healthier Alternatives
Each slice of cheeseburger pie provides a hearty amount of protein and fat, making it a satisfying meal. Here’s a general estimate per serving:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 25g
For a lighter option, consider these substitutions:
- Ground Turkey: Replace ground beef with ground turkey to lower fat and calorie content.
- Cauliflower Crust: Use a cauliflower crust instead of traditional pie crust for a low-carb alternative.
- Reduced Cheese: Use less cheese or swap for a lighter, lower-fat version.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a leaner alternative and can be substituted in a 1:1 ratio. It has a lighter flavor but still works well with the cheese and seasonings.
2. Can I Make Cheeseburger Pie Ahead of Time?
Absolutely. You can prepare the pie, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge for up to two days before baking.
3. How Do I Reheat Leftover Cheeseburger Pie?
To reheat, place a slice of the pie in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.
4. Can I Freeze Cheeseburger Pie?
Yes, you can freeze cheeseburger pie. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as instructed.
Conclusion
Cheeseburger pie is a delicious, family-friendly dish that’s easy to make and full of comforting flavors. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or making it ahead for a busy day, this recipe is versatile enough to fit into any meal plan. Try out the variations mentioned above or experiment with your own toppings to create a cheeseburger pie that your family will love.
For more family-style dinner ideas, don’t miss this Ham and Potato Casserole recipe—a hearty, cheesy meal that pairs perfectly with any main dish.
