Cheeseburger pie is the ultimate comfort food, blending the flavors of a juicy cheeseburger into an easy-to-make pie. This recipe, inspired by the popular Pioneer Woman style of cooking, takes the classic dish to the next level with simple ingredients and straightforward instructions perfect for a weeknight dinner. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie will become a family favorite in no time.
This hearty and satisfying pie combines the savory taste of seasoned ground beef with melty cheddar cheese, all baked in a creamy, Bisquick-based crust. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the essence of a cheeseburger without the buns, and it’s incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite burger toppings, making it a fun and interactive meal for everyone. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious pioneer woman cheeseburger pie recipe.
What Makes This Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie Special?
The beauty of this pioneer woman cheeseburger pie recipe lies in its simplicity and comforting flavors. Inspired by Ree Drummond’s approachable and family-friendly cooking, this recipe is all about creating a delicious, crowd-pleasing meal with minimal fuss. Here’s what sets it apart:
- Easy to Make: With just a few steps and readily available ingredients, this pie comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Kid-Friendly: The familiar flavors of cheeseburgers are always a hit with kids, and the pie format makes it fun and appealing.
- Versatile: Feel free to adapt this recipe with your favorite cheeseburger toppings and variations to suit your taste.
- Comfort Food Classic: It’s warm, cheesy, and satisfying – everything you crave in comfort food.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie
Before you start cooking, gather these simple ingredients. You might already have most of them in your pantry and refrigerator!
- 1 large onion, chopped (about 1 cup): Adds a savory base flavor to the beef mixture.
- 1 pound ground beef: The star of our cheeseburger pie, providing a hearty and meaty filling. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of the beef and other ingredients.
- Ground black pepper, to taste: Season generously to your preference.
- Garlic powder, to taste (optional): Adds a hint of garlic flavor that complements the cheeseburger taste.
- 1 cup grated Cheddar cheese: Provides that classic cheeseburger cheese flavor. Feel free to use your favorite cheese like Monterey Jack or a blend.
- ½ cup Original Bisquick mix (or all-purpose flour): Forms the base of the easy crust. If using all-purpose flour, see the FAQs for adjustments.
- 1 cup whole milk: Adds richness and moisture to the crust.
- 2 large eggs: Binds the crust ingredients together and adds structure to the pie.
- Vegetable oil: For greasing the pie plate and sautéing the onion.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Cheeseburger Pie
Follow these simple steps to create your own delicious pioneer woman cheeseburger pie:
- Preheat the Oven and Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9-inch medium glass pie plate with vegetable oil. This prevents the pie from sticking and ensures easy removal after baking.
- Sauté the Onion: In a large skillet, heat a little vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Sautéing the onion first brings out its sweetness and mellows its flavor.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet with the softened onions. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until browned, about 10 minutes. Ensure the beef is fully cooked and no longer pink.
- Drain Excess Fat and Season: Drain any excess fat from the skillet after browning the beef. Season the beef mixture with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Seasoning at this stage is crucial for flavorful cheeseburger pie.
- Assemble the Pie: Spread the cooked and seasoned beef mixture evenly into the prepared pie plate. Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the beef layer. The cheese will melt beautifully and create a gooey, cheesy layer.
- Prepare the Bisquick Batter: In a small bowl, whisk together the Bisquick mix (or all-purpose flour), milk, and eggs until well combined and smooth. This batter acts as the crust and binds all the ingredients together.
- Pour Batter Over Filling: Pour the Bisquick batter evenly over the beef and cheese layers in the pie plate. Ensure the batter covers the entire surface for a cohesive pie.
- Bake the Cheeseburger Pie: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown, and the filling should be set.
- Serve and Enjoy: Let the pioneer woman cheeseburger pie cool slightly before slicing and serving. Serve warm and enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish!
Tips for the Best Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie
- Don’t Overcook the Beef: Cook the ground beef until just browned to keep it tender and juicy in the pie.
- Customize Your Cheese: While cheddar is classic, experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of cheeses for different flavor profiles.
- Add Extra Vegetables: For added nutrition and flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the beef mixture.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for a little heat.
- Topping Ideas: Serve with your favorite cheeseburger toppings like diced tomatoes, lettuce, pickles, ketchup, mustard, or even crispy bacon bits.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheeseburger Pie
Can you make cheeseburger pie without Bisquick?
Yes, you can! If you don’t have Bisquick, you can easily make a substitute crust using all-purpose flour. Mix ½ cup all-purpose flour with ¾ teaspoon baking powder and a pinch of salt. Use this mixture in place of Bisquick in the recipe. You might also need to adjust the liquid slightly to get the right batter consistency.
What types of meat can be used in cheeseburger pie?
While ground beef is traditional, you can use other ground meats like ground turkey, chicken, or even bison. Each will offer a slightly different flavor profile, so choose your favorite or what you have on hand.
How long does it take to cook a cheeseburger pie?
This pioneer woman cheeseburger pie typically takes 20 to 25 minutes to bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C). The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so always check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center. It should come out clean when the pie is ready.
Can cheeseburger pie be frozen for later use?
Absolutely! Cheeseburger pie freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely after baking, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
What are some healthy substitutions for cheeseburger pie?
To make a healthier version, use lean ground meat like ground turkey or chicken and reduce the amount of cheese or use low-fat cheese. Adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or diced bell peppers to the beef mixture can also boost the nutritional value. You can also experiment with whole wheat Bisquick or almond flour for a slightly healthier crust option.
Enjoy Your Homemade Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie!
This pioneer woman cheeseburger pie recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, customizable, and incredibly delicious. Gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and get ready to enjoy a slice of comforting goodness. Whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck with friends, this cheeseburger pie is sure to be a hit!
