Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie

Introduction

When I first discovered the Pioneer Woman’s Cheeseburger Pie, it felt like a culinary revelation. As a fan of comforting and hearty meals, this recipe quickly became a family favorite. The blend of savory ground beef, gooey cheddar cheese, and the soft, custard-like filling creates a delightful dish that satisfies everyone at the table. It’s the kind of meal that brings smiles and nostalgia, reminiscent of simpler times when comfort food ruled. My family couldn’t get enough, and I love how easy it is to whip up on a busy weeknight. Let me share with you how to create this delicious dish that has made its way into our regular rotation.

Ingredients

• 1 large onion, chopped (1 cup)
• 1 pound ground beef
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Ground black pepper, to taste
• Garlic powder, to taste (optional)
• 1 cup grated Cheddar cheese
• ½ cup Original Bisquick mix (or all-purpose flour)
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 large eggs

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a medium glass pie plate (9-inch) with vegetable oil.
2. Sauté the Onion: In a large skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and fry until soft, about 3 minutes.
3. Cook the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 10 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess fat from the beef and season with salt, black pepper, and optionally, garlic powder.
4. Layer the Beef Mixture: Spread the cooked and seasoned beef mixture evenly into the prepared pie plate. Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese over the beef layer.
5. Prepare the Batter: In a small bowl, whisk together the Bisquick mix (or flour), milk, and eggs until combined. The batter will be thin, which is perfect for this dish.
6. Combine Layers: Pour the batter over the beef and cheese layers in the pie plate, ensuring it covers the entire surface.
7. Bake: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Serve: Once baked, allow it to cool slightly before serving warm. Enjoy this comforting slice of cheeseburger pie with your family and friends.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: 514 kcal
• Total Fat: 34g
• Saturated Fat: 16g
• Cholesterol: 134mg
• Sodium: 636mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 27g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 26g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve

• Warm: Serve warm as a comforting main dish.
• With Toppings: Add your favorite toppings, such as ketchup, mustard, or pickles.
• Salad Side: Pair with a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
• Family Style: Cut into wedges and serve on a large platter for family-style dining.
• Garnish: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Additional Tips

1. Choose the Right Beef: For a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
2. Customize Cheese: Feel free to mix different cheeses, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for a flavor twist.
3. Add Vegetables: Consider adding bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the beef mixture for extra nutrition and flavor.
4. Make Ahead: Prepare the beef mixture ahead of time and assemble the pie when ready to bake.
5. Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute ground beef with lentils or a meat substitute for a vegetarian-friendly option.
• Spicy Cheeseburger Pie: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
• Italian Cheeseburger Pie: Incorporate Italian seasoning and marinara sauce into the beef for an Italian twist.
• Bacon Cheeseburger Pie: Cook and crumble some bacon to mix with the ground beef for extra flavor.
• BBQ Cheeseburger Pie: Mix BBQ sauce into the ground beef for a smoky, sweet flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

• With Fries: Serve alongside a side of crispy fries or potato wedges for a classic comfort food combo.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw can balance the richness of the pie.
• Bread Rolls: Warm bread rolls or biscuits can complement the dish perfectly.
• Pickle Slices: Add pickle slices on the side for a tangy crunch.
• Beer or Soda: Pair with a cold beer or soda to enhance the casual dining experience.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then foil to freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
• Reheating: To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different pie plate?
Yes, you can use a ceramic or metal pie dish; just adjust the cooking time as needed.

2. How can I tell if the pie is done?
Insert a knife or toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the pie is fully cooked.

3. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

4. What can I serve with cheeseburger pie?
It pairs well with salads, coleslaw, or a side of fries for a hearty meal.

5. Can I use non-dairy milk?
Yes, feel free to substitute whole milk with almond milk or any other non-dairy milk.

6. Is this pie suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! Freeze leftovers in individual portions for quick meals later.

7. What if I don’t have Bisquick?
You can substitute it with all-purpose flour mixed with 1 teaspoon of baking powder.

8. Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, chopped bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms would be great additions.

9. How long does it take to thaw a frozen pie?
Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

10. Can I make this pie gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free baking mix in place of Bisquick or all-purpose flour.

Conclusion

Pioneer Woman’s Cheeseburger Pie is not just a recipe; it’s an experience that brings comfort and joy to the dinner table. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this dish is perfect for families and gatherings alike. The melding of flavors creates a hearty meal that’s sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. So, grab your apron and give this delightful cheeseburger pie a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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