If you’re craving a savory, hearty meal that’s simple to prepare and satisfying for the whole family, look no further than this Impossibly Easy Cheeseburger Pie. This classic dish brings the flavors of a cheeseburger into a pie form, combining seasoned ground beef, melted cheddar cheese, and a fluffy, biscuit-like crust. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, thanks to the impossibly simple batter that forms the crust while baking. You’ll love how effortlessly this comes together for a delicious meal.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Cuisine
This dish is inspired by classic American comfort food, combining the best elements of a cheeseburger with the simplicity of a pie. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or even casual gatherings.
Full List of Ingredients
For the Crust:
- ½ cup (65g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 tbsp butter, cold
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup (120ml) milk
For the Beef Mixture:
- ½ tbsp butter
- ½ tbsp olive oil
- 2 shallots (or 1 medium yellow onion), finely chopped
- 1 lb lean ground beef (93% lean / 7% fat)
- ½ teaspoon taco seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Handful of fresh parsley, chopped
For the Topping:
- ½ cup (60g) shredded cheddar cheese (divided into ¼ cup portions)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
1. Prepare the Crust Mixture
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Using a pastry cutter or a fork, cut the cold butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. This will create a light and flaky texture for the crust. Add the eggs and milk to the flour mixture, and whisk gently until the batter is well combined. It will be lumpy due to the butter, but that’s perfectly fine and ensures a light texture once baked.
2. Sauté the Shallots
In a skillet, heat ½ tablespoon of butter and ½ tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped shallots (or onion) and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until they soften and become fragrant. This step helps bring out the sweetness in the shallots, which will complement the savory beef.
3. Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the pan with the shallots. Break the beef apart with a spatula and cook until browned, about 7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the beef is evenly cooked.
4. Season the Beef
Once the beef is browned, add the taco seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and cook for an additional minute to let the flavors meld together. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the chopped parsley, adding freshness and a pop of color to the mixture.
5. Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease a baking dish (such as a 9-inch pie plate or a square baking dish) with butter or oil to prevent the pie from sticking. Spread half of the beef mixture evenly into the bottom of the dish, creating a nice base layer.
6. Add the Cheese
Sprinkle ¼ cup (60g) of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef layer. This cheese will melt into the beef, creating a cheesy and flavorful layer.
7. Layer the Remaining Beef and Cheese
Spread the remaining half of the beef mixture over the cheese. Then, top with the remaining ¼ cup (60g) of shredded cheddar cheese, ensuring that the cheese is evenly distributed.
8. Pour the Batter
Pour the prepared batter evenly over the beef and cheese layers. The batter will spread and form a fluffy crust as it bakes, enveloping the beef and cheese in a deliciously soft, biscuit-like topping.
9. Bake the Pie
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the pie has set. The batter should be firm to the touch, and the cheese should be bubbling and melted.
10. Serve
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Slice and serve while warm. You can enjoy it as-is or pair it with a side salad or vegetables for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 22 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fat: 23 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugars: 4 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
The Impossibly Easy Cheeseburger Pie was originally introduced by Betty Crocker as part of their “Impossibly Easy” line of recipes, which utilized simple ingredients and methods to make cooking more accessible. The concept behind this recipe was to create a savory pie that was quick, easy, and satisfying—perfect for busy families. Over time, this recipe has become a beloved comfort food for many, offering the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in an easy-to-make pie format. The versatility of the recipe, combined with its simplicity, has contributed to its popularity.
Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With minimal prep work and just one pan required for the beef mixture, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Family-Friendly: The flavors are universally loved, and even picky eaters will enjoy the familiar tastes of a cheeseburger in pie form.
- Satisfying: The rich, cheesy filling and the biscuit-like crust make this pie incredibly filling and satisfying.
- Customizable: You can easily add other ingredients to the filling, like pickles, bacon, or other cheeses, to personalize the recipe to your taste.
Health Benefits
- Protein: Lean ground beef provides a good source of protein, essential for muscle building and repair.
- Calcium: The cheddar cheese adds calcium, which is important for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
- Vitamins and Minerals: The shallots and parsley contribute vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants that support overall health.
- Lower in Carbs: Unlike traditional cheeseburger buns, this recipe uses a simple batter that’s lower in carbs, making it a better option for those watching their carbohydrate intake.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Salad: Serve the pie alongside a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
- With Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or broccoli complement the richness of the pie and add a healthy side dish.
- Pickles on the Side: A few pickle slices on the side would add a nice contrast to the cheeseburger flavors, bringing in some tangy crunch.
Cooking Tips
- Use Lean Beef: Choose lean ground beef (93% lean or higher) to keep the pie from being too greasy. You can also substitute turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Customize the Toppings: Feel free to add other ingredients to the beef mixture, such as chopped pickles, cooked bacon, or extra cheese, to make it your own.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: When preparing the batter, avoid overmixing it. It’s fine for the mixture to be lumpy, and this helps ensure the batter remains light and fluffy.
- Rest the Pie: After baking, let the pie cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to slice.
Variations to Try
- Bacon Cheeseburger Pie: Add cooked, crumbled bacon to the beef mixture for a smoky flavor.
- Veggie Cheeseburger Pie: Replace the beef with vegetarian crumbles or finely chopped mushrooms for a meat-free version.
- Double Cheese Cheeseburger Pie: Use both cheddar and mozzarella for a gooey, cheesy filling.
- Spicy Cheeseburger Pie: Add diced jalapeños or chili powder to the beef mixture for some heat.
Conclusion
The Impossibly Easy Cheeseburger Pie is a simple, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. With minimal ingredients and steps, it’s a great go-to dish for busy evenings or when you want a comforting meal. The combination of savory beef, melted cheese, and a light, biscuit-like crust makes every bite a delight. Plus, it’s easily customizable, allowing you to add your own twist to the recipe.
10 Comprehensive FAQ Section
1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pie ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
2. Can I freeze this cheeseburger pie?
Yes, you can freeze the pie before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake it from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
3. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great lean alternative to beef. Just be aware that turkey can be drier, so adding some extra seasoning or moisture might help.
4. How can I make this gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular all-purpose flour for the batter, and ensure your taco seasoning and other ingredients are gluten-free.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
6. Can I add vegetables to the pie?
Yes, you can add vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the beef mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
7. Can I use pre-cooked beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked beef. Just heat it up in the skillet and proceed with the recipe from there.
8. How do I prevent the top from getting too brown?
If the top is browning too quickly, cover the pie loosely with foil and continue baking until done.
9. Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, you can use mozzarella, provolone, or any other cheese you prefer. Each cheese will give a slightly different texture and flavor.
10. Can I make a vegetarian version of this pie?
Yes, you can substitute the beef with vegetarian alternatives, such as crumbled tofu, lentils, or plant-based meat substitutes.