Pioneer Cheeseburger Pie Dish

This savory Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie transforms classic burger flavors into a comforting, easy-to-serve pie that's perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and a golden Bisquick topping creates a dinner that satisfies both kids and adults alike.

This recipe became my go-to solution during hectic weeknights when my children were in different sports activities. I could prepare it earlier in the day and quickly reheat slices as family members came home at different times.

Ingredients

• Chopped onion: Adds a sweet aromatic base that complements the beef perfectly
• Ground beef: Provides the hearty foundation, look for 80/20 for best flavor
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for properly seasoning the meat
• Garlic powder: Optional, but adds an extra dimension of savory flavor
• Cheddar cheese: Creates that classic cheeseburger taste, sharp varieties add more punch
• Bisquick mix: The secret to the easy crust, substitute with flour in a pinch
• Whole milk: Creates richness in the topping, avoid low-fat versions
• Large eggs: Bind everything together and help the topping rise properly

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation:

Preheat your oven to 400°F and generously grease a 9-inch glass pie plate. Glass conducts heat more evenly than metal ensuring the pie cooks through properly without burning the edges.

Cook the Aromatics:

Heat a large skillet over medium heat with a swirl of oil. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. This step builds the flavor foundation, so don’t rush it. The slight sweetness of properly cooked onions balances the savory beef.

Brown the Beef:

Add ground beef to the softened onions, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook thoroughly until no pink remains, usually about 10 minutes. Be sure to drain off excess fat to prevent a greasy pie. Season generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, if using.

Layer the Base:

Transfer the seasoned beef and onion mixture to your greased pie plate, spreading it evenly to create the foundation layer. Distribute the grated cheddar cheese over the meat, ensuring complete coverage. This creates that classic cheeseburger flavor profile.

Prepare the Topping:

In a mixing bowl, whisk together Bisquick, milk, and eggs until smooth with no lumps. The consistency should be similar to pancake batter. This simple mixture will transform into a golden crust as it bakes.

Assemble and Bake:

Pour the Bisquick mixture evenly over the beef and cheese layers. It will seep slightly into the meat, creating a wonderful binding effect. Bake in your preheated oven for 20–25 minutes until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted comes out clean.

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The Bisquick topping is what truly elevates this dish from a simple casserole to something special. My grandmother used to make a similar recipe but always insisted on using a cast iron skillet instead of a pie plate, claiming it gave the edges a perfect crispness that reminded her of a burger with crispy edges.

Storing Leftovers

This cheeseburger pie keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when properly stored in an airtight container. For best results when reheating, place individual slices in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes rather than using a microwave, which can make the topping soggy. If you want to freeze portions, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil, and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Customize Your Pie

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Transform it into a bacon cheeseburger pie by adding 6 slices of cooked, crumbled bacon to the beef layer. Create a mushroom swiss version by sautéing 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms with the onions and substituting swiss cheese for the cheddar. For a spicy southwestern twist, add a diced jalapeño and a tablespoon of taco seasoning to the beef mixture, then top with pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar. The possibilities are endless while keeping the same easy preparation method.

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Serving Suggestions

While delicious on its own, this cheeseburger pie pairs wonderfully with simple sides that complement its hearty nature. I love serving it with a crisp green salad dressed with tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pie. For a more substantial meal, roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts make excellent accompaniments. And for the full burger experience, offer traditional condiments on the side like ketchup, mustard, and even dill pickle chips that guests can add to their slices as desired.

The History Behind It

This recipe belongs to a beloved category of American comfort food that gained popularity in the 1950s when Bisquick and other convenience products revolutionized home cooking. Originally marketed as a way for busy homemakers to put dinner on the table quickly, these "impossible pies" earned their name because they magically formed their own crust during baking. The cheeseburger version became especially popular in Midwestern households where practicality and heartiness were valued in family meals. Today, it represents nostalgic comfort food that continues to be passed down through generations.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I substitute Bisquick with other types of flour?

Yes, you can use all-purpose flour instead of Bisquick. However, you may need to add a pinch of salt and some leavening agents like baking powder to replicate Bisquick's properties.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make the dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free baking mix or flour instead of Bisquick, ensuring it includes necessary leavening agents.

→ Can I add vegetables to the pie?

Absolutely! You can add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach to the beef mixture for extra nutrition and flavor.

→ What type of cheese works best for this dish?

Cheddar cheese is ideal for its sharp, savory flavor, but you can substitute with Colby, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend for a different taste.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave or oven for best results.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cooked beef and grated cheese layers in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator, then assemble and bake the pie just before serving.