One chilly evening, as the wind whispered tales of the changing season, I found myself yearning for something deeply satisfying to stave off the cold. That’s when I stumbled upon a recipe that seemed to promise just that—a Pioneer Woman’s Cheeseburger Pie. This isn’t just any pie; it’s a clever twist on the all-American cheeseburger, baked into a savory pie that marries simplicity with a touch of rustic charm. As I gathered the ingredients, I couldn’t help but reminisce about the bustling diners of my youth, where cheeseburgers were the king of the menu. Now, in pie form, it promised a nostalgic trip back to those carefree days with every bite.

This Cheeseburger Pie is like a hug in a dish, enveloping you with its warm, cheesy goodness and hearty, meaty filling. It’s a dish that brings the comfort of a cheeseburger to the dinner table in a whole new way, transforming familiar flavors into something wonderfully novel and inviting.

Equipment

• Large skillet
• 9-inch pie plate
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Spatula

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1/2 cup chopped yellow onion
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• Nonstick cooking spray
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole buttermilk, room temperature
• 1 tbsp salted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Pickle slices, for serving
• Ketchup, for serving
• Burger sauce, for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (204°C). Spray a 9-inch pie plate with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, chopped onion, and kosher salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and crumbly and the onions have softened, about 8 to 10 minutes. If desired, drain any excess fat from the pan.
3. Flavor the Beef: Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to be absorbed by the meat.
4. Transfer to Pie Plate: Spoon the cooked hamburger mixture into the prepared pie plate, spreading it evenly.
5. Prepare the Batter: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, and melted butter until smooth. Add the flour and baking powder, continuing to whisk until no lumps remain.
6. Assemble the Pie: Pour the batter evenly over the hamburger mixture in the pie plate. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
7. Bake: Place the pie plate in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
8. Serve: Allow the pie to cool slightly before slicing. Serve each slice with pickle slices, ketchup, and/or burger sauce on the side.

Serving Suggestions

This Hamburger Pie is hearty and satisfying on its own but can be paired with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to round out the meal. For a fuller diner experience, consider serving with a side of crispy fries or onion rings.

FAQs

Can I make this pie with a different type of meat? Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional for a cheeseburger pie, ground turkey or chicken would work well too. For a vegetarian version, consider a meat substitute like crumbled tempeh or a lentil mix.

Is there a gluten-free alternative to Bisquick mix? Yes, there are gluten-free Bisquick mixes available, or you can use a blend of gluten-free flour mixed with a little baking powder and salt.

Can I add other “burger” ingredients to the pie? Certainly! Feel free to add a layer of pickles, diced tomatoes, or even some crispy bacon under the cheese layer for extra flavor.

How long will this pie keep? You can store leftover cheeseburger pie in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

This Cheeseburger Pie is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful twist on a beloved classic, perfect for bringing a touch of nostalgia and warmth to your dinner table. Enjoy crafting this cozy dish that’s sure to become a new favorite!