The Ultimate Cheeseburger Pie Recipe

If you’re craving something delicious that combines the comfort of a cheeseburger with the heartiness of a savory pie, you’ve found the perfect dish. This ultimate cheeseburger pie recipe is easy to make, kid-friendly, and guaranteed to be a hit at your next family dinner. Imagine all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger—ground beef, cheese, onions, and a flaky crust—coming together in one savory, satisfying meal. Read on to learn how to make this wonderful cheeseburger pie for your family.

For more creative ideas about transforming classic dishes into fun, family-friendly meals, you can check out some great comfort food recipes here. Additionally, if you’re looking for gluten-free alternatives, this guide might come in handy. Lastly, for those who are interested in the health benefits of the ingredients we use, this resource provides insights on the nutrients found in everyday foods.

Why You’ll Love Cheeseburger Pie

Cheeseburger pie is comfort food at its finest. Here are a few reasons why this dish should be your next go-to recipe:

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour with simple steps that even beginner cooks can follow.
• Family Favorite: Combining the flavors of a classic cheeseburger makes it perfect for picky eaters.
• Versatile: You can switch up the ingredients to fit your dietary needs or add a bit of creativity.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This pie can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for a quick, ready-to-eat dinner.

Ingredients for the Best Cheeseburger Pie

Below is a table of ingredients you’ll need for your cheeseburger pie:

Ingredient	Quantity
Crust
Pre-made pie crust	1
All-purpose flour	1 cup
Salt	1/2 teaspoon
Cold butter (cut into cubes)	1/2 cup
Ice water	3-4 tablespoons
Filling
Ground beef	1 lb
Medium onion (chopped)	1
Garlic powder	1 teaspoon
Salt	1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper	1/4 teaspoon
Shredded cheddar cheese	1 cup
Ketchup	1/4 cup
Yellow mustard	2 tablespoons
Milk	1/2 cup
Large eggs	2
Pickles (optional)	For garnishing
Diced tomatoes (optional)	For garnishing
Bacon bits (optional)	For garnishing
Toppings
Extra shredded cheese	As desired
Sliced pickles	As desired
Diced tomatoes	As desired

Step-by-Step Guide to Make Cheeseburger Pie

1: Prepare the Crust

• If you’re making a homemade crust, combine the flour and salt in a medium-sized bowl.
• Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Add the ice water gradually, mixing until the dough forms.
• Roll out the dough on a floured surface, then press it into a pie dish.
• For a time-saving option, use a pre-made pie crust, pressing it firmly into the pie dish.

2: Cook the Ground Beef

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
• Drain any excess fat.
• Add chopped onions, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
• Cook until the onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

3: Assemble the Filling

• Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly over the pie crust.
• In a small bowl, mix together ketchup and mustard. Drizzle this over the beef layer.
• Sprinkle one cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the beef.

4: Mix the Egg Mixture

• In another bowl, whisk together the milk and eggs.
• Pour this mixture over the beef and cheese filling to bind everything together.

5: Bake the Pie

• Place the pie in the preheated oven.
• Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the pie is set and the cheese is bubbly.
• Let it cool for 10 minutes before slicing.

6: Garnish and Serve

• Top the pie with additional shredded cheese, pickles, or diced tomatoes if desired.
• Serve warm with a side salad, fries, or roasted veggies for a complete meal.

Variations of Cheeseburger Pie

1. Low-Carb Cheeseburger Pie

If you’re following a low-carb diet, you can skip the crust and instead make this recipe as a crustless pie. The egg mixture will still hold everything together beautifully, and you’ll cut down on the carbs without sacrificing flavor.

2. Cheeseburger Pie with Bacon

Who doesn’t love bacon? Cook a few slices of bacon alongside the ground beef, crumble it, and add it into the filling. This variation adds a nice smoky flavor that takes the dish to another level.

3. Gluten-Free Option

For those with gluten sensitivities, simply replace the pie crust with a gluten-free pie crust or go with a crustless version. You can also find plenty of gluten-free flour alternatives that work just as well for a homemade crust.

4. Vegetarian Cheeseburger Pie

If you’re vegetarian, swap out the ground beef with a plant-based alternative like Impossible or Beyond Meat. Keep all other ingredients the same to retain that cheeseburger flavor you love.

5. Southwest Cheeseburger Pie

To give your cheeseburger pie a Tex-Mex twist, add a tablespoon of taco seasoning to the ground beef. You can also include diced bell peppers, chopped jalapeños, and substitute pepper jack cheese for cheddar. Top with sliced avocado and a dollop of sour cream for that extra southwestern flavor.

6. Breakfast Cheeseburger Pie

Yes, you read that right—cheeseburger pie can be enjoyed for breakfast! Add in cooked, crumbled breakfast sausage along with the ground beef and sprinkle in some chopped cooked bacon. You could even crack an extra egg on top before baking for a fun breakfast twist.

Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes

The beauty of cheeseburger pie lies in its versatility. To create a full meal, consider pairing your pie with some of the following sides:

• Crispy French Fries: No cheeseburger-themed meal is complete without a side of crispy fries. You can make them in the oven or air fryer for a healthier option.
• Garden Salad: Balance the richness of the pie with a fresh garden salad. A light vinaigrette works wonders to cut through the heaviness of the cheese and beef.
• Roasted Veggies: Roasted carrots, broccoli, or green beans add a nutritious component to the meal. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic for an added boost of flavor.
• Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw made with cabbage and a tangy dressing adds texture and complements the flavors of the cheeseburger pie.
• Garlic Bread: If you want more comfort food, serve with slices of garlic bread to soak up every last bit of the cheesy, savory filling.

Tips for Meal Prep and Storage

Meal Prep Tips

Cheeseburger pie can easily be made ahead of time, which makes it perfect for meal prepping:

• Prepare in Advance: Assemble the pie but hold off on baking it. You can cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Make the Filling in Bulk: Cook extra ground beef filling and freeze it in portions. This way, when you’re ready to make cheeseburger pie, you just need to defrost the filling, assemble, and bake.
• Double the Recipe: Consider doubling the recipe and freezing one pie. It will come in handy on a busy weeknight when you need dinner without the fuss.

Storage

• Refrigerate: Once baked, store leftover cheeseburger pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
• Freeze: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through.

Historical Background and Fun Facts

The idea of cheeseburger pie takes inspiration from classic American comfort food. In the 1970s, recipes that could be easily assembled in one dish became immensely popular as a convenient way to feed families. Pillsbury even marketed their famous “Impossible Pie” during this era, using Bisquick as a primary ingredient for a similar cheeseburger-flavored dish. This led to the popularity of savory pies that combined simple, pantry-friendly ingredients.

Cheeseburger pie merges two iconic American favorites: the classic hamburger and the comforting casserole. The dish symbolizes the evolution of American cuisine—focusing on convenience, adaptability, and family-style meals.

Did you know? September 18th is recognized as National Cheeseburger Day in the United States. That makes it the perfect excuse to make a cheeseburger pie for your loved ones.

Nutritional Benefits of Cheeseburger Pie

Cheeseburger pie may not sound like health food, but you can make it nutritious with a few small tweaks:

• Protein-Rich: With ingredients like ground beef, eggs, and cheese, cheeseburger pie provides an excellent source of protein. Protein is essential for muscle repair, growth, and keeping you full for longer periods.
• Calcium: The cheese and milk used in this recipe provide a good dose of calcium, which is important for bone health.
• Customizable: Use lean ground beef or even ground turkey to reduce fat content. Adding extra veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can increase fiber and add valuable vitamins and minerals to the dish.
• Healthy Fats: Opt for reduced-fat cheese to keep the fat content lower. Avocado slices as a topping can also add healthy monounsaturated fats.

Cooking Tips for the Best Cheeseburger Pie

1. Use High-Quality Beef

The quality of beef you use makes a huge difference in the final flavor of the pie. Opt for grass-fed beef if possible, as it has a richer taste and contains more beneficial nutrients compared to conventionally raised beef.

2. Add Veggies for Extra Nutrition

To make your cheeseburger pie even more nutritious, add finely chopped vegetables into the beef mixture. Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach can complement the flavors without altering the essence of the dish. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in extra veggies for picky eaters.

3. Drain Excess Grease

After browning the beef, always make sure to drain the excess grease. This keeps the pie from becoming too oily and ensures a better texture for the filling.

4. Rest Before Slicing

Once you pull your cheeseburger pie out of the oven, let it rest for at least 10 minutes. This helps the filling set, making it much easier to slice neatly without losing any of the delicious ingredients.

5. Experiment with Spices

Don’t be afraid to add different spices or seasonings to the beef mixture. A pinch of paprika, cumin, or even Worcestershire sauce can add a depth of flavor that makes your cheeseburger pie unique and tasty.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is cheeseburger pie made of?

Cheeseburger pie consists of ground beef, onions, cheese, and a pie crust. It’s like a cheeseburger but served in pie form. You can customize the filling with different seasonings, cheeses, and even vegetables.

How many carbs are in Impossible Cheeseburger Pie?

The carb content of an Impossible cheeseburger pie will vary depending on the type of crust used. On average, a serving contains around 15-20 grams of carbs. If you use a low-carb crust or make it crustless, the carbs will be significantly lower.

What is the difference between a hamburger and a cheeseburger?

A hamburger is simply a beef patty served in a bun, while a cheeseburger includes a slice of cheese melted over the beef patty. The addition of cheese is the defining difference, and it brings a creamy, rich flavor to the dish.

What’s the best cheese for a cheeseburger?

Cheddar is the classic choice for cheeseburgers, thanks to its sharp flavor and meltability. However, other cheeses like American, Swiss, pepper jack, or even blue cheese can work wonders depending on the flavor you want.

Can I make cheeseburger pie without a crust?

Absolutely! Crustless cheeseburger pie is a popular low-carb alternative. Simply follow the recipe as usual, omitting the crust, and use the egg and milk mixture to hold the ingredients together. It’s delicious and perfect for those on keto or low-carb diets.

How do I reheat leftover cheeseburger pie?

To reheat leftovers, you can use either the microwave or the oven. For best results, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), cover the pie with foil, and heat for 15-20 minutes until warmed through. The microwave is quicker but may soften the crust slightly.

What are some toppings I can use for cheeseburger pie?

Toppings make all the difference! Try sliced pickles, diced tomatoes, crumbled bacon, or even jalapeños for a spicy kick. A drizzle of ketchup or barbecue sauce can also enhance the flavors.

Conclusion

Cheeseburger pie is a delightful, comforting dish that brings together all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a fun and family-friendly format. With its versatility, ease of preparation, and crowd-pleasing taste, it’s no wonder that cheeseburger pie has become a staple in so many households. Whether you’re making a traditional version, a low-carb option, or trying one of the many creative variations, this dish is sure to bring smiles to the dinner table. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy every cheesy, savory bite of your homemade cheeseburger pie