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Introduction and Origin
Cheeseburger Pie is a nostalgic, all-American dish that brings together the classic flavors of a cheeseburger in the form of a savory pie. Pioneer Woman’s version simplifies the process while still delivering rich, meaty, cheesy goodness in every bite. It’s weeknight comfort food at its finest, channeling those backyard burger vibes straight to your dinner table—without needing a grill.
Cultural Significance
Cheeseburger Pie emerged in American kitchens around the mid-20th century, especially during the boom of Bisquick-based recipes and convenience cooking. Popularized by brands and home cooks alike, it reflects the post-war emphasis on easy, affordable meals that fed families and echoed familiar favorites—like the all-American cheeseburger. Today, it holds a place in comfort food lore as a retro-cool, family-friendly dinner that stands the test of time.
Ingredients and Quantity
- 1 large onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- Garlic powder, to taste (optional)
- 1 cup grated Cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup Bisquick mix
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
Optional Additions
- Diced pickles or relish for authentic cheeseburger flavor
- Chopped cooked bacon for a bacon cheeseburger pie
- Tomato slices or cherry tomatoes on top before baking
- Mustard or ketchup drizzle when serving
- Jalapeños for a spicy kick
- Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for added depth
Tips for Success
- Sauté onions until just golden to enhance sweetness and avoid raw bite.
- Drain beef well after browning to prevent a greasy pie.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and flavor.
- Let it rest 5–10 minutes after baking to firm up before slicing.
- Double the recipe and use a 9×13 dish for a crowd.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook chopped onion and ground beef until beef is browned and onions are soft. Drain excess grease.
- Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste.
- Transfer beef mixture to a greased 9-inch pie dish. Sprinkle cheddar cheese evenly over the meat.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together Bisquick, milk, and eggs until smooth.
- Pour the Bisquick mixture evenly over the meat and cheese in the pie dish.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and set. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.
- Cool for 5–10 minutes, then slice and serve warm.
Description
This pie delivers everything you love about a cheeseburger—savory beef, melted cheese, soft onions—all in a tender, golden Bisquick crust. The flavors are bold and familiar, yet the form is easy to serve and satisfying enough for dinner. It’s like your favorite diner burger, reimagined as a cozy casserole.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving, based on 6 servings)
- Calories: ~370
- Protein: 21g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
Note: Values may vary based on exact ingredients and portion size.
Conclusion and Recommendation
Pioneer Woman’s Cheeseburger Pie is a keeper for busy weeknights, picky eaters, and anyone craving that cheeseburger flavor without the fuss. It’s easy to prep, quick to bake, and endlessly customizable to suit your taste. Serve it with a side salad, roasted veggies, or even classic fries for the full diner-style experience.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Indulging in comfort food doesn’t mean abandoning health goals. To lighten things up:
- Use lean ground beef or ground turkey
- Opt for reduced-fat cheese
- Sub in whole milk or dairy-free alternatives
- Swap regular Bisquick for a whole-grain baking mix
These tweaks let you enjoy that cheesy, meaty satisfaction while keeping things a bit more balanced—proof that hearty can still be health-conscious.
Let me know if you’d like a printable recipe card or meal prep version!