Introduction
If you’re looking for a comforting and satisfying meal, this dish is sure to delight. Cheeseburger pie combines the classic flavors of a cheeseburger with a fun and easy-to-eat format. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or simply when you want a taste of home in one delightful slice. Baking this dish allows all the ingredients to meld together beautifully, creating a savory and cheesy experience that will keep everyone coming back for seconds. Let’s dive into how to bake the ultimate homemade cheeseburger pie.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it marries the beloved flavors of a cheeseburger with the convenience of a pie. You get the juicy beef, gooey cheese, and the comfort of a warm, hearty dish, all in a simple and practical format.
It’s also versatile. You can customize the ingredients based on what you have at home or your family’s preferences. Add some vegetables for extra nutrition, switch different types of cheese, or even try various seasonings. This dish can transform based on your creativity, making it a fun option for any home cook.
Additionally, it’s an economical meal. Made with accessible ingredients, it feeds a crowd without breaking the bank. You can easily prepare it with ingredients you likely already have, making this homemade cheeseburger pie a fantastic choice for busy families or those on a budget.
How to Make Cheeseburger Pie
Creating a delicious cheeseburger pie at home is straightforward and rewarding. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy this homemade comfort dish in no time.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- Cooking spray or butter for greasing the pan
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion to the skillet. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion becomes soft. This step fills your kitchen with a great aroma and is essential for building the flavors.
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After the beef and onions are cooked, drain the excess fat carefully to keep your pie from becoming greasy.
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Season the meat mixture with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce if you choose to use it. This blend of seasonings enhances the flavors of the beef and onion.
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Grease a 9-inch pie dish with cooking spray or butter. This ensures that your pie comes out easily once it’s baked.
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Spread the cooked beef and onion mixture evenly across the bottom of the greased pie dish.
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Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef. The cheese will melt beautifully during baking, creating a deliciously gooey layer.
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In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and flour until smooth. This mixture will form the base of your pie, binding all the ingredients together.
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Pour the egg mixture evenly over the beef and cheese. Spread it gently with a spatula if needed to ensure even coverage.
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Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and look for a golden top with a center that is set.
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Once the baking time is up, allow the pie to cool slightly before slicing. This cooling period helps the pie set and makes serving easier.
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Serve warm. Enjoy a slice on its own or pair it with a simple side salad for a complete meal.
How to Serve Cheeseburger Pie
Serving cheeseburger pie is as easy as slicing and enjoying. You can cut it into wedges, much like a traditional pie. This makes it a great option for dinner parties, family meals, or casual gatherings.
For added charm, consider serving it alongside an array of toppings. Set out bowls of diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, pickles, and a dollop of ketchup or mustard. Allowing everyone to customize their slice adds an interactive element to the meal and brings that classic burger feel right to the table.
Pair your cheeseburger pie with a fresh side salad or crispy fries to round out the meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, serve it with a side of coleslaw to add a crunchy contrast to the creamy pie.
How to Store Cheeseburger Pie
If you happen to have leftovers, storing them is simple. Allow the pie to cool completely first, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Alternatively, you can transfer it to an airtight container.
Stored correctly in the refrigerator, your cheeseburger pie will stay fresh for up to three days. For best flavor and texture, reheat individual slices in the microwave for a quick meal on the go. If you have a larger portion to reheat, pop it back into the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
For longer storage, you can freeze cheeseburger pie. After cooling completely, wrap it tightly and place it in the freezer. It should keep well for about three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Tips to Make Cheeseburger Pie
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Use Lean Ground Beef: Opting for lean ground beef will help reduce excess grease and keep your pie lighter.
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Prep Ahead: You can prepare the meat mixture a day in advance to save time. Store it in the refrigerator to let the flavors develop.
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Cheese Variations: While cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack can add an exciting twist with varying flavor profiles.
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Add Vegetables: If your family enjoys veggies, consider mixing in chopped bell peppers or mushrooms with the beef for added nutrition and flavor.
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Spice It Up: For heat lovers, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture.
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Make it Unique: Top your pie with crispy bacon bits or drizzle with barbecue sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
Variation
There are multiple ways to adapt this cheeseburger pie to suit your preferences or dietary needs. For a healthier option, try using ground turkey or a plant-based meat substitute. They will provide a similar texture and flavor while offering a leaner meal.
Another variation is to incorporate different herbs and spices. Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, or fresh herbs like parsley can change the flavor profile dramatically and keep the dish exciting and fresh.
FAQs
1. Can I make the cheeseburger pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble the pie and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
2. Can I freeze cheeseburger pie?
Absolutely! After baking and cooling, wrap the pie tightly and freeze it for up to three months. Thaw before reheating for best results.
3. What sides go well with cheeseburger pie?
This dish pairs excellently with fresh salads, coleslaw, or crispy fries. You can also serve it with baked beans for a classic twist.
Enjoy the process of making this meal! With just a bit of effort, you can create something delicious that your family will cherish. The next time you’re craving a cheeseburger, consider this pie as your go-to comfort food.
Print
Cheeseburger Pie
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Standard
Description
A comforting dish that combines the classic flavors of a cheeseburger in a pie format, perfect for weeknight dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- Cooking spray or butter for greasing the pan
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion is soft.
- Drain the excess fat from the beef mixture.
- Season the meat mixture with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce if using.
- Grease a 9-inch pie dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Spread the cooked beef and onion mixture evenly across the bottom of the greased pie dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the beef mixture.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and flour until smooth.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the beef and cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until golden and center is set.
- Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serve warm.
Notes
For added charm, serve with toppings like tomatoes, lettuce, pickles, ketchup, or mustard. Pair with a side salad or fries for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
