There’s something truly magical about combining two beloved comfort foods into one delicious dish. The Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie does just that, marrying the savory goodness of a cheeseburger with the ease and simplicity of a pie. This recipe holds a special place in my heart, reminiscent of cozy family dinners and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones.
I remember the first time I encountered this dish; it was at a neighborhood potluck. Amid the array of casseroles and salads, the Cheeseburger Pie stood out with its golden, cheesy top and enticing aroma. One bite, and I was hooked. The familiar flavors of a cheeseburger, reimagined in a new form, brought a sense of nostalgia and comfort that was hard to resist. Since then, it has become a staple in my kitchen, perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and gatherings with friends and family.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Optional toppings: chopped tomatoes, shredded lettuce, pickles, ketchup, mustard
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat and Prep
Preheat the Oven: Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish. This ensures that the pie won’t stick and makes for easy cleanup.
Cook the Beef
Brown the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it apart as it cooks, ensuring it browns evenly.
Add Aromatics and Seasonings: Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet along with the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Continue to cook until the onion is soft and translucent, and the beef is thoroughly cooked. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease from the skillet to prevent the pie from becoming too greasy.
Assemble the Pie
Layer the Beef: Transfer the beef and onion mixture into the prepared pie dish, spreading it out to form an even layer. This will be the savory base of your pie.
Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef layer. The cheese will melt into the beef as it bakes, creating a deliciously gooey center.
Prepare the Pie Filling
Mix the Filling: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, flour, eggs, and baking powder until the mixture is smooth. This batter will form the “crust” of the pie as it bakes, binding everything together.
Pour the Filling: Carefully pour the liquid mixture over the beef and cheese layers in the pie dish, ensuring it covers the entire surface. The batter will seep down into the beef mixture, holding it all together.
Bake
Bake the Pie: Place the pie dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is set. You can test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the pie is ready.
Cool and Serve
Cool Slightly: Allow the pie to cool for a few minutes before slicing. This helps the filling set and makes slicing easier.
Serve and Customize: Serve warm slices of Cheeseburger Pie with optional toppings like chopped tomatoes, shredded lettuce, pickles, ketchup, and mustard. These toppings add a fresh, crunchy contrast to the savory pie, allowing each person to customize their slice to their liking.
Variations and Substitutions
- Different Cheeses: Swap out the cheddar for other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
- Meat Options: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat substitute for a lighter or vegetarian version.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make this dish gluten-free.
- Add Veggies: Incorporate finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach into the beef mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for a spicy twist.
Summary
The Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie is more than just a meal—it’s a comforting experience that brings together the best of both worlds: the simplicity of a pie and the hearty goodness of a cheeseburger. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just looking for a satisfying weekday meal, this recipe is sure to delight. The rich, savory beef paired with melted cheese and a fluffy crust creates a harmony of flavors and textures that is simply irresistible.
It’s also a versatile dish that can be easily customized to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. The addition of fresh toppings allows everyone to tailor their slice to their liking, making it a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, the ease of preparation means you can whip it up without spending hours in the kitchen.
Enjoy the process and the delicious results of this Cheeseburger Pie. It’s a dish that promises to become a favorite in your household, just as it has in mine. Happy cooking!
