There’s something comforting about the blend of crispy, cheesy, and savory flavors that come together in a slice of Cheeseburger Pie. On a rainy evening, I found myself craving that classic burger taste but wanted something a little different and effortless. Imagine a flaky biscuit crust enveloping seasoned ground beef mixed with tangy pickles and gooey cheddar—this dish is a cozy hug on a plate!
What makes this Cheeseburger Pie truly special is its versatility. Whether you’re aiming for a lighter meal with ground turkey, a veggie-packed delight, or even a spicy version with jalapeños, this dish adapts beautifully to your cravings (and dietary needs). Plus, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends; you can whip it up in no time. Ready to bring a taste of the diner to your kitchen? Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe!
Why is Cheeseburger Pie a Must-Try?
Comforting Flavor: The melting cheese and savory beef create a warm and nostalgic experience.
Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy nights, it’s ready in under 30 minutes!
Customizable: From bacon to veggies, tailor it to your taste and dietary needs.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family dinners or casual get-togethers—everyone will love it!
Versatile Crust Options: Use biscuits, crescent rolls, or even a low-carb crust for variety.
Dive into this delicious recipe, and for more comfort food ideas, check out our selection of cozy dishes!
Cheeseburger Pie Ingredients
For the Filling
• Ground Beef – Provides the main protein and savory filling; substitute with ground turkey for a lighter option.
• Onion, chopped – Adds flavor depth and sweetness, or swap with shallots for a milder taste.
• Ketchup – Offers sweetness and tang; use barbecue sauce for a smokier flavor.
• Mustard – Adds an acidic bite, consider Dijon for a more refined taste.
• Pickles, chopped – Introduces crunch and tartness; substitute with relish if preferred.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Brings creaminess and flavor; use pepper jack for added spice.
• Garlic Powder – Enhances savory flavor; fresh garlic can be used for a stronger taste.
• Paprika – Adds mild warmth and color; smoked paprika can deepen the flavor profile.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning, adjust according to taste preference.
For the Crust
• Refrigerated Biscuit Dough – Provides the crust; can replace with crescent roll dough for a flakier version.
This lovely Cheeseburger Pie offers a delicious combination of flavors that will delight your family at dinner!
How to Make Cheeseburger Pie
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This essential step ensures an even bake for your pie.
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Brown the ground beef and chopped onions in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes. You want the beef fully cooked and the onions tender.
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Drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep your filling from becoming greasy; this helps maintain a balanced flavor in your pie.
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Stir in the ketchup, mustard, chopped pickles, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to meld the flavors together beautifully.
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Transfer the beef mixture to a greased pie dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom. This will be the hearty layer of your delicious pie.
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Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously on top of the beef mixture. The gooey cheese adds the comfort food element we all crave.
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Arrange the refrigerated biscuit dough on top of the cheese and beef filling. You can either place it whole or tear it into pieces for a textured finish.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and fully cooked through. This creates that inviting crust we all love.
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Cool for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. Letting it rest helps the layers set, making for easier serving.
Optional: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Cheeseburger Pie?
Looking to round out your meal with something delightful that complements the savory goodness of Cheeseburger Pie?
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Crispy French Fries: The golden crunch of fries adds a perfect texture contrast, making each bite even more satisfying. Dipping them in ketchup mirrors that classic burger experience.
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Garden Salad: A fresh salad filled with greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes brings a light, refreshing balance to the rich pie. Drizzle with a tangy vinaigrette for an added zing!
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Coleslaw: This crunchy, creamy side offers a vibrant flavor that cuts through the savory pie, enhancing each savory bite. Its coolness provides a delightful temperature contrast as well.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and warm, the garlic breadsticks are a welcomed indulgence that brings a bit of Italian flair to your table. They’re perfect for soaking up any melted cheese or savory juices.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of colorful roasted veggies adds a wholesome component, bursting with flavor and nutrients. Season them with olive oil, salt, and pepper for a delicious side!
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Pickle Platter: Serve a variety of pickles on the side, including dill and sweet varieties. The tangy crunch enhances the cheeseburger flavors, bringing that diner-style experience home.
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Iced Tea or Lemonade: Chill out with refreshing iced tea or lemonade that balances the savory richness of the pie with a thirst-quenching sweetness. Perfect for a warm evening!
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: End the meal on a sweet note with warm chocolate chip cookies. Their gooey, melty centers paired with the slight crunch of the edges create pure comfort!
Make Ahead Options
Cheeseburger Pie is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling (ground beef, onions, and seasonings) up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container. This not only saves you time on busy weeknights but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. You can also assemble the pie completely and refrigerate it for up to 3 days; just be sure to cover it tightly to maintain quality. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat your oven and pop the pie in for 20-25 minutes until it’s golden and bubbly. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious homemade meal with minimal effort!
Cheeseburger Pie Variations
Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine by customizing this dish to fit your cravings or dietary needs!
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Bacon Boost: Stir in crispy bacon bits with the beef for a savory crunch that elevates every bite. The smoky flavor pairs perfectly and adds indulgence.
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Veggie Delight: Toss in diced bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for a healthy twist that enhances the earthy flavors without losing that cheeseburger essence.
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder to bring the heat. It’s a delightful way to awaken your taste buds and add a fiery edge.
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Turkey Option: Swap ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner, heart-healthy alternative that doesn’t skimp on flavor. You’ll still enjoy that comforting, homey feel.
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Low-Carb Version: Use a cauliflower crust or a cheesy egg topping to keep things low-carb while still delivering enjoyable flavors and textures that satisfy.
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Cheddar Variations: Try mixing in different cheeses like pepper jack for an extra kick or mozzarella for a milder, gooey experience. Cheese lovers will appreciate the change!
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Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs such as thyme, basil, or parsley into the filling for an aromatic uplift that brings freshness to your pie and brightens up the rich flavors.
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BBQ Twist: Replace ketchup with your favorite barbecue sauce for a smoky, tangy profile that’ll reimagine your classic cheeseburger pie in a fun way.
Explore these variations and find your perfect Cheeseburger Pie combination!
How to Store and Freeze Cheeseburger Pie
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Room Temperature: Cheeseburger Pie can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours; make sure to cover it loosely with foil to prevent drying out.
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture, about 15-20 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
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Freezer: Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
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Reheating: Reheat frozen slices in the oven for 20-25 minutes at 350°F (175°C), or microwave for a quick fix, though the oven method maintains crust crispiness.
Expert Tips for Cheeseburger Pie
- Quality Meat Matters: Use high-quality ground beef for better flavor; if opting for lean beef, add a splash of broth to maintain moisture.
- Season Generously: Don’t shy away from seasoning your filling well; adjusting with Worcestershire sauce can enhance the overall taste of your Cheeseburger Pie.
- Customize the Crust: Feel free to experiment with different types of dough for your crust; crescent roll dough can create an even flakier texture.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow your pie to cool for a few minutes before cutting; this helps set the layers, making it easier to slice cleanly.
- Veggie Boost: Add vegetables like diced bell peppers or spinach into the filling for added nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
Cheeseburger Pie Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best ground beef for Cheeseburger Pie?
Absolutely! When selecting ground beef, look for a blend with around 80% lean meat; this ratio provides a great balance of flavor and juiciness. If you want a lighter option, consider ground turkey, but remember to add a bit of moisture since turkey can dry out more quickly.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very! To store leftover Cheeseburger Pie, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through; this will help maintain that delightful crust.
Can I freeze Cheeseburger Pie, and how should I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze Cheeseburger Pie, here’s what to do: first, allow the pie to cool completely. Then, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. This method can preserve it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What should I do if my Cheeseburger Pie is too greasy?
No worries! If your pie turns out greasy, it might be due to using higher-fat ground beef. To remedy this next time, drain excess fat after browning the meat. Also, consider adding additional vegetables to absorb some of the grease and keep the pie balanced.
Can this Cheeseburger Pie be made with dietary restrictions in mind?
Very! You can tailor your Cheeseburger Pie to accommodate various dietary needs. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free biscuit dough or try a cauliflower crust. If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, replace the meat with mushrooms and black beans, and don’t forget to add in some spices for flavor.
How can I tell when the pie is fully cooked?
To ensure your Cheeseburger Pie is perfectly cooked, look for the biscuit crust to turn a golden brown and become firm to the touch. Additionally, the filling should be bubbling around the edges, indicating that everything inside is hot and ready to serve!
Cheeseburger Pie: Easy Comfort Food for the Whole Family
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brown the ground beef and chopped onions in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Stir in the ketchup, mustard, chopped pickles, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Transfer the beef mixture to a greased pie dish, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the beef mixture.
- Arrange the refrigerated biscuit dough on top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the biscuits are golden brown.
- Cool for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.