Description: A delightful twist on the classic American cheeseburger, this pie is a symphony of savory flavors encased in a flaky crust. Imagine sinking your fork into a warm, cheesy, beefy slice of pure comfort. This recipe takes the familiar flavors of a cheeseburger and transforms them into an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing pie. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you need a hearty and satisfying meal, the Pioneer Woman’s Cheeseburger Pie is guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends. It’s a fun, approachable recipe that even novice cooks can master. Get ready for a slice of heaven! This Cheeseburger Pie is the ultimate comfort food: a flaky crust filled with juicy ground beef, melty cheese, and all your favorite burger fixings. It’s like a cheeseburger, but BETTER! This recipe is incredibly adaptable, allowing you to customize it with your favorite burger toppings. Whether you love bacon, pickles, or a spicy kick, you can easily incorporate them into this recipe to make it your own. So grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!
Ingredients:
- Ground Beef: 1 lb š„© (Ideally 80/20 blend for flavor and moisture)
- Onion: 1/2 medium š§ (Yellow or white onion, finely chopped)
- Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups shredded š§ (Sharp cheddar for a bold flavor, or a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a milder taste)
- Refrigerated Pie Crust: 1 box (2 crusts) š„§ (Choose your favorite brand, or make your own from scratch for an extra special treat)
- Ketchup: 1/4 cup š (Adds sweetness and tang)
- Mustard: 2 tbsp š (Yellow mustard is traditional, but Dijon or spicy brown mustard can add a unique twist)
- Salt & Pepper: To taste š§ (Freshly ground black pepper is recommended for the best flavor)
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped Dill Pickles š„ (Adds a tangy and flavorful element)
- Optional: 4 slices cooked Bacon, crumbled š„ (Adds a smoky and savory touch)
- Optional: 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce (adds a depth of umami flavor to the beef)
- Optional: 1 tbsp Burger Sauce (adds a delightful taste)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat oven to 375Ā°F (190Ā°C). Ensure your oven is properly preheated for even baking. While the oven is heating, prepare your pie crusts. Gently unroll one crust and carefully place it into a 9-inch pie dish. Press the crust firmly against the bottom and sides of the dish. Trim any excess crust hanging over the edge, leaving about a 1/2-inch overhang. Crimp the edges of the crust using a fork or your fingers to create a decorative and secure seal. If you want to par-bake the crust for a more sturdy base, you can bake it for 10 minutes before adding the filling.
Step 2: Brown the ground beef with the chopped onion in a large skillet over medium-high heat. As the beef cooks, use a spatula to break it apart into smaller pieces. Cook until the beef is fully browned and the onion is softened, usually about 7-10 minutes. Continuously stir the mixture to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. If using, add the Worcestershire sauce in the last minute of cooking and stir it in.
Step 3: Once the beef is browned, carefully drain off any excess fat from the skillet. This is an important step to prevent the pie from becoming greasy. After draining the fat, return the skillet to the stove over low heat. Stir in the ketchup, mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients and ensure the beef is evenly coated in the sauce. At this stage you can add the burger sauce to make it more flavourful.
Step 4: Sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the bottom of the prepared pie crust. This layer of cheese will create a delicious and gooey base for the beef filling.
Step 5: Carefully pour the beef mixture into the pie crust, spreading it evenly over the layer of cheese. Ensure the beef is distributed uniformly throughout the pie to ensure every slice is packed with flavor.
Step 6: Top the beef mixture with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. This final layer of cheese will melt beautifully during baking, creating a golden and bubbly topping that’s irresistible. If using, sprinkle the crumbled bacon and chopped pickles over the cheese for added flavor and texture.
Step 7: Gently unroll the second pie crust and carefully place it over the filling, covering the entire pie. Trim any excess crust hanging over the edge, leaving about a 1-inch overhang. Fold the overhang under the edge of the bottom crust and crimp the edges to seal the two crusts together. This will create a secure seal that prevents the filling from leaking out during baking. Cut several slits in the top crust using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter. These slits will allow steam to escape during baking, preventing the crust from puffing up and becoming soggy.
Step 8: Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on the pie during baking to ensure the crust doesn’t burn. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, you can tent it with aluminum foil to prevent further browning.
Step 9: Once the pie is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly on a wire rack for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the filling to set slightly, making it easier to slice and serve.
Why you will love this recipe:
- Comfort Food Classic: It combines the best of both worlds: a juicy cheeseburger and a comforting pie.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and simple, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to your liking by adding your favorite burger toppings.
- Crowd-Pleasing: It’s always a hit with family and friends, making it perfect for potlucks and gatherings.
- Delicious Flavors: The combination of savory ground beef, melty cheese, and tangy ketchup and mustard creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
- Nostalgic: Reminiscent of classic American diners and drive-ins, bringing back fond memories.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ingredients that are readily available at most grocery stores.
- Versatile: Can be served as a main course or a hearty appetizer.
- Kid-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will love this fun and flavorful pie.
- Satisfying: Hearty and filling, perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm, straight from the oven, for the ultimate comfort food experience.
- Pair with a side of crispy french fries, onion rings, or a fresh green salad.
- Offer a variety of toppings and condiments, such as lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions, and your favorite burger sauces.
- Serve with a cold glass of soda, lemonade, or iced tea.
- For a fun twist, serve individual slices of pie on burger buns.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives for added color and flavor.
- Serve with a side of coleslaw for a tangy and refreshing contrast.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top for a creamy and tangy flavor.
- Serve with a side of spicy jalapeƱos for those who like a little heat.
- Cut into smaller squares and serve as appetizers at a party.
Tips:
- Use a good quality ground beef with a higher fat content for the best flavor and moisture.
- Don’t overcook the ground beef, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Drain the excess fat from the ground beef to prevent the pie from becoming greasy.
- Use freshly grated cheddar cheese for the best flavor and melting properties.
- Make sure the pie crusts are thawed but still cold for easier handling.
- Crimp the edges of the pie crusts well to create a secure seal.
- Cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
- If the crust starts to brown too quickly, tent it with aluminum foil.
- Let the pie cool slightly before slicing and serving for easier handling.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat leftovers in the oven or microwave.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
- Add other vegetables to the beef mixture, such as chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 30-35 minutes Total Time: 50-55 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Per serving, estimated)
- Calories: 450-550
- Protein: 25-35g
- Sodium: 600-800mg
Conclusion:
The Pioneer Woman’s Cheeseburger Pie is a delightful and comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and customizable options, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, or just a taste of classic American comfort food, this Cheeseburger Pie is guaranteed to satisfy. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a slice of cheesy, beefy goodness! It’s a unique and fun way to enjoy the flavours of a cheeseburger, without the bun! Enjoy!
Questions and Answers about this recipe:
- Can I use a different type of cheese?
- Absolutely! While cheddar is the traditional choice, you can easily substitute with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even a blend of cheddar and mozzarella. Experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite flavor combination.
- Can I make this pie ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the pie ahead of time and bake it later. Assemble the pie according to the recipe instructions, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the plastic wrap and bake as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the pie is cold from the refrigerator.
- Can I freeze this pie?
- Yes, you can freeze the baked pie for longer storage. Allow the pie to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to serve, thaw the pie overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in the oven at 350Ā°F (175Ā°C) until warmed through.
- Can I use a homemade pie crust?
- Definitely! If you prefer, you can use a homemade pie crust instead of store-bought. Just make sure to use a recipe that yields two crusts for a 9-inch pie dish.
- What can I add to make this pie spicier?
- If you want to add a little heat to your Cheeseburger Pie, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture. You could also add some chopped jalapeƱos or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes on top of the cheese before baking.
