Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie: A Hearty, Comforting Family Favorite 🥧🍔
Craving the classic flavors of a juicy cheeseburger but want something a little more creative? Look no further than the Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie! This savory casserole combines seasoned ground beef, sweet onions, melty cheddar cheese, and a fluffy Bisquick topping to create a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or casual gatherings, this recipe is a nostalgic nod to the iconic “Impossible Pie” recipes popularized by Bisquick. Ready in under an hour, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Plus, we’ll share a bonus recipe for a Spinach, Mushroom, and Tomato Omelette to pair with it for a complete meal!
Why You’ll Love Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie
The Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie is the ultimate comfort food, blending the familiar flavors of a cheeseburger into a sliceable, shareable pie. Here’s why it’s a must-try:
- Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep and 25-30 minutes of baking, it’s perfect for busy evenings.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the cheesy, beefy goodness.
- Versatile: Customize with your favorite burger toppings or seasonings to make it your own.
- Budget-Friendly: Made with pantry staples like ground beef, onions, and Bisquick.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prep it in advance and bake when ready for a stress-free meal.
Whether you’re a fan of Ree Drummond’s hearty recipes or simply looking for a new way to enjoy ground beef, this cheeseburger pie is a winner. Let’s dive into the details!
🛒 Ingredients for Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie
To make this delicious cheeseburger pie, you’ll need the following ingredients. These quantities serve 6 people, but you can adjust for larger or smaller crowds.
- 1 large onion, chopped (1 cup): Adds sweetness and depth to the beef filling.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty base; use lean ground beef to reduce grease.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors.
- Ground black pepper, to taste: Adds a subtle kick.
- Garlic powder, to taste (optional): For an extra layer of savory flavor.
- 1 cup grated Cheddar cheese: Melts into a gooey, cheesy topping.
- ½ cup Original Bisquick mix (or all-purpose flour): Creates the fluffy, biscuit-like crust.
- 1 cup whole milk: Thins the batter for a creamy texture.
- 2 large eggs: Provide structure to the topping.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Ground Beef: Swap with ground turkey, chicken, or bison for a leaner or different flavor profile.
- Bisquick Mix: Use all-purpose flour with ¾ teaspoon baking powder and ¼ teaspoon salt as a homemade substitute.
- Cheddar Cheese: Try mozzarella, pepper jack, or Colby for a twist.
- Milk: Substitute with buttermilk for a tangier batter or heavy cream for richer texture.
- Onion: Use rehydrated dried minced onion or onion powder for a shortcut.
📝 Step-by-Step Instructions for Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie
Follow these easy steps to create a perfectly baked cheeseburger pie that’s golden, cheesy, and packed with flavor. We’ve included tips to ensure success every time.
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready.
- Grease the Pie Plate: Spray a 9-inch glass or ceramic pie plate with nonstick cooking spray or lightly grease with oil to prevent sticking.
Pro Tip: A glass pie plate allows you to check the browning of the crust, ensuring it’s perfectly cooked.
Step 2: Cook the Beef and Onion
- Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil or vegetable oil.
- Sauté the Onion: Add 1 cup chopped onion and cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent.
- Brown the Beef: Add 1 pound ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for 8-10 minutes until browned and crumbly. Drain excess fat to avoid a greasy pie.
- Season the Mixture: Stir in ½ teaspoon salt, ground black pepper to taste, and garlic powder (optional). For extra flavor, add 1-2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce and cook for 2 minutes until absorbed.
Pro Tip: Use lean ground beef (90/10 or 93/7) to minimize grease, or drain thoroughly if using fattier cuts like ground chuck.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
- Transfer to Pie Plate: Spread the cooked beef and onion mixture evenly in the prepared pie plate.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle 1 cup grated Cheddar cheese over the beef, ensuring even coverage for a melty, cheesy layer.
Step 4: Make the Batter
- Whisk Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs, 1 cup whole milk, and ½ cup Original Bisquick mix (or flour substitute) until smooth. Some lumps are okay—avoid overmixing to keep the batter light.
- Pour Batter: Pour the batter evenly over the beef and cheese in the pie plate.
Pro Tip: For a richer batter, substitute milk with buttermilk or add 1 tablespoon melted butter to the mixture.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
- Bake the Pie: Place the pie plate in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool Slightly: Let the pie cool for 5 minutes before slicing to help it set and make serving easier.
- Serve with Toppings: Cut into 6 even slices and serve with classic cheeseburger toppings like pickles, ketchup, mustard, lettuce, or burger sauce.
Serving Suggestion: Pair with a fresh Spinach, Mushroom, and Tomato Omelette (recipe below) for a balanced brunch or dinner spread.
⏰ Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
This quick recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners when you need something hearty and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
🍽️ Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for one slice (1/6 of the pie):
- Calories: ~400-500 kcal
- Protein: ~25g
- Fat: ~30g
- Carbohydrates: ~15g
- Fiber: ~1g
- Sugar: ~4g
- Sodium: ~600mg
The exact values depend on the type of ground beef and cheese used. This dish is high in protein and fats, making it a filling meal, but it’s also rich in calories, so enjoy in moderation.
Health Benefits
- Ground Beef: Rich in protein, vitamin B12, and iron, supporting muscle growth and energy production. Grass-fed beef offers higher levels of omega-3s and CLA.
- Cheddar Cheese: Provides calcium and protein but is high in saturated fat, so use sparingly if watching cholesterol.
- Onions: Add antioxidants and flavor with minimal calories.
- Eggs: A great source of choline and high-quality protein.
🌟 Tips for the Perfect Cheeseburger Pie
To ensure your cheeseburger pie is a hit, follow these expert tips:
- Use Lean Beef: Opt for 90/10 or 93/7 ground beef to reduce grease, or drain thoroughly after cooking.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Stir the Bisquick mixture just until combined to avoid a dense topping.
- Check Doneness: Insert a knife or toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when the pie is fully baked.
- Customize Toppings: Add pickles, diced tomatoes, or a drizzle of burger sauce to mimic a classic cheeseburger.
- Prevent Sticking: Grease the pie plate well or use nonstick spray for easy removal.
🥗 Variations and Add-Ins
This cheeseburger pie is endlessly customizable. Here are some fun ways to switch it up:
- Bacon Cheeseburger Pie: Add ½ cup cooked, crumbled bacon to the beef mixture for a smoky twist.
- Mexican-Inspired: Season the beef with 3 tablespoons taco seasoning and top with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.
- Italian Style: Use 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning and swap cheddar for mozzarella. Serve with pizza sauce.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne, or pepper jack cheese for heat.
- Veggie Boost: Mix in sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or diced tomatoes with the beef.
🍴 Serving Suggestions
This cheeseburger pie is a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with complementary sides elevates the experience. Here are some ideas:
- Classic Sides: Serve with French fries, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad with tangy vinaigrette.
- Burger Toppings: Offer a topping bar with pickles, lettuce, tomatoes, ketchup, mustard, and burger sauce for a fun, interactive meal.
- Spinach, Mushroom, and Tomato Omelette: For a balanced brunch or dinner, pair the pie with this light, veggie-packed omelette (recipe below). The omelette’s fresh flavors complement the richness of the pie.
Bonus Recipe: Spinach, Mushroom, and Tomato Omelette 🍅🍄
This Spinach, Mushroom, and Tomato Omelette is a quick, nutritious side dish that pairs beautifully with the hearty cheeseburger pie. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients (Serves 1):
- 2 large eggs
- ½ tablespoon butter or olive oil
- ¼ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup mushrooms, sliced
- ¼ cup fresh spinach
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cheese (optional, e.g., cheddar or feta)
Instructions:
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat a medium skillet over medium heat with butter or olive oil. Add mushrooms and cook for 3-4 minutes until browned. Add cherry tomatoes and spinach, cooking for 1-2 minutes until softened.
- Cook Omelette: Whisk eggs with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Pour over vegetables in the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes until edges set. If using cheese, sprinkle it on one side.
- Fold and Serve: Fold the omelette in half and cook for 1 more minute. Serve hot with a side of hot sauce or chutney.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes
Calories: ~250 kcal | Protein: ~15g
This omelette adds a light, veggie-packed contrast to the rich cheeseburger pie, making it a perfect pairing for brunch or dinner.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make the cheeseburger pie ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the pie up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake as directed, adding 5-10 minutes if baking from cold.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes per slice.
Can I freeze cheeseburger pie?
Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months. Slice into portions, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and label with the date. Thaw in the fridge overnight or reheat from frozen at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until heated to 165°F.
What can I use instead of Bisquick?
Combine ½ cup all-purpose flour, ¾ teaspoon baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon salt as a substitute. Alternatively, use crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for a different texture.
How do I prevent a soggy pie?
Drain excess fat from the beef thoroughly and avoid overmixing the batter, which can make it dense. Bake until the center is set.
📌 Final Thoughts
The Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie is the perfect blend of nostalgia, comfort, and convenience, bringing all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger to your dinner table in a fun, sliceable form. With its simple ingredients, quick prep time, and endless customization options, it’s a recipe that’s sure to please everyone from picky eaters to food enthusiasts. Pair it with the Spinach, Mushroom, and Tomato Omelette for a balanced, nutrient-packed meal that’s as delicious as it is satisfying.
Try this recipe today and let us know how it turned out! Share your variations, toppings, or photos in the comments below, or tag us on social media. Don’t forget to pin this recipe to your Pinterest board for easy access later. Happy cooking! 🍔🥧
