Looking for the ultimate comfort food that’s simple, cheesy, and full of flavor? This Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie brings all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger into one easy-to-make casserole dish. With seasoned ground beef, sweet onions, and plenty of melted cheddar cheese, this savory pie is the perfect answer to a busy weeknight or when you’re craving hearty, homemade goodness. Topped with a golden, fluffy crust, this family-friendly ground beef recipe is a nostalgic throwback that never goes out of style.
Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or need a quick and easy meal that both adults and kids will devour, this cheeseburger pie is sure to please. Plus, it’s a one-pan dinner that requires minimal cleanup—what’s not to love?
Ingredients:
- 1 large onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- Garlic powder, to taste (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup Bisquick baking mix (or substitute)
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9-inch pie plate or baking dish.
- Cook the ground beef and onion in a skillet over medium heat until beef is browned and onion is tender. Drain any excess grease.
- Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Spread it evenly into the prepared pie dish.
- Sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the beef mixture.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the Bisquick, milk, and eggs until smooth.
- Pour the batter over the meat and cheese layer.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips for the Best Cheeseburger Pie:
- Use sharp cheddar for extra cheesy flavor.
- Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Add a layer of pickles on top before baking for a real burger vibe.
- Use an oven-safe skillet to go from stovetop to oven in one pan.
- Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef for richness.
- Use whole milk for a creamier texture in the batter.
- Grate your own cheese—pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly.
- Include diced tomatoes or ketchup for added moisture and flavor.
- Let it rest before slicing so it holds together better.
- Top with sesame seeds before baking to mimic a burger bun.
- Swap in Swiss or American cheese for a flavor twist.
- Add cooked bacon bits to the filling for a bacon cheeseburger version.
- Use nonstick spray generously to avoid sticking.
- Add mustard to the beef for that tangy cheeseburger flair.
- Include sautéed mushrooms or green peppers for a veggie boost.
- Use gluten-free baking mix for a GF-friendly version.
- Double the recipe and bake in a 9×13 dish for a crowd.
- Top with lettuce and tomato slices after baking for freshness.
- Freeze leftovers in individual slices for easy lunches.
- Serve with French fries or a side salad for a complete meal.
Variations:
- Bacon Cheeseburger Pie – Add crisped bacon to the beef layer.
- Jalapeño Cheeseburger Pie – Stir in diced jalapeños for spice.
- Pizza Burger Pie – Add Italian seasoning and pepperoni slices.
- BBQ Cheeseburger Pie – Mix barbecue sauce into the beef.
- Philly Cheesesteak Pie – Use provolone, mushrooms, and green peppers.
- Chili Cheeseburger Pie – Add chili powder and beans.
- Taco Cheeseburger Pie – Add taco seasoning and top with salsa.
- Mushroom Swiss Pie – Use sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese.
- Sloppy Joe Pie – Use a Sloppy Joe filling and top with cheddar.
- Patty Melt Pie – Use rye breadcrumbs and onions.
- Big Mac Pie – Add Thousand Island dressing and pickles after baking.
- Breakfast Burger Pie – Add scrambled eggs and breakfast sausage.
- Pimento Cheese Pie – Replace cheddar with pimento cheese spread.
- Guacamole Cheeseburger Pie – Add avocado and lime before serving.
- Blue Cheese Burger Pie – Use crumbled blue cheese and red onions.
- Onion Ring Cheeseburger Pie – Top with crispy onion rings after baking.
- Zucchini Burger Pie – Mix in shredded zucchini for moisture.
- Keto Cheeseburger Pie – Skip the Bisquick and use eggs and cream only.
- Tex-Mex Cheeseburger Pie – Add corn and chipotle seasoning.
- Greek Cheeseburger Pie – Add feta, olives, and oregano.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Can I use something other than Bisquick?
Yes, a mix of flour, baking powder, salt, and butter can substitute.
2. Can I use plant-based meat?
Yes, plant-based ground meat works great in this recipe.
3. Is this pie freezer-friendly?
Yes, freeze in slices and reheat as needed.
4. Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely—bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach work well.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
6. Can I make it without cheese?
Yes, but the texture and flavor may be affected.
7. Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, assemble ahead and bake when ready.
8. How do I reheat it?
Reheat in a 350°F oven or microwave individual slices.
9. What’s a good side dish?
Salad, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables complement it well.
10. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, bake in a larger dish and increase cook time.
11. Is this keto-friendly?
Not as-is, but can be adapted using almond flour or skipping the crust.
12. Can I use pre-cooked ground beef?
Yes, just warm it with the onions before assembling.
13. Can I make it spicy?
Add chili flakes or hot sauce to the beef mixture.
14. Can I make it dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cheese and a milk alternative in the batter.
15. Can I use a pie crust instead?
Yes, for a more traditional pie texture.
16. Will kids like it?
It’s a kid-friendly classic, especially with ketchup on the side.
17. Can I serve it cold?
Best served warm, but leftovers are fine cold too.
18. Can I add ketchup or mustard to the mix?
Yes, it adds a nice burger-like taste.
19. Does it need to rest after baking?
Letting it sit for 5–10 minutes helps it slice cleanly.
20. Can I make mini pies?
Yes, use muffin tins for individual servings.