Classic Cheeseburger Pie

This hearty cheeseburger pie brings the comforting flavors of a classic burger into a cozy, easy-to-make bake. Tender ground beef seasoned with ketchup and mustard is topped with a fluffy Bisquick and egg batter that bakes to a golden, melty finish. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this dish feels familiar yet special with every bite, making it a family favorite that’s quick to prepare and satisfying to serve.

I first made this when my son asked for cheeseburgers during a snowstorm but we were stuck indoors. Now it is requested almost every month because it’s both special and easy enough for any weeknight.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: provides the main savory base choose 80 percent lean for best flavor
• Chopped onion: adds sweetness and depth pick onions with firm shiny skins for freshness
• Minced garlic: brings extra punch fresh, plump cloves give the best aroma
• Ketchup: gives tangy tomato notes look for varieties with less corn syrup for cleaner flavor
• Yellow mustard: delivers classic cheeseburger zip opt for a bright yellow with few additives
• Salt and pepper: balance all the flavors kosher salt and cracked black pepper work great
• Shredded cheddar cheese: melts into a gooey topping buy a block and grate yourself for creamier texture
• Milk: helps make the Bisquick batter fluffy whole milk is ideal but two percent works fine
• Bisquick or baking mix: is the secret to the light crust choose a fresh bag without clumps
• Eggs: bind everything together use clean cracked eggs without shell spots for best results

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Beef and Aromatics:

Heat a heavy skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Break it up with a sturdy spoon as it cooks. When the beef is halfway browned, scatter in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir constantly until the beef is fully cooked and onions become translucent, about eight minutes. This step releases that inviting savory aroma that warms up the kitchen.

Season and Cool the Filling:

Turn off the heat and gently stir in ketchup and yellow mustard. Season generously with salt and pepper. This transforms the meat into a seasoned cheesy filling reminiscent of a burger. Let the mixture cool for at least five minutes so it doesn’t scramble the eggs later.

Layer the Pie:

Lightly grease a nine-inch pie dish with butter or oil. Spread the cooled beef mixture evenly across the bottom, pressing lightly but not packing it. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar evenly over the top to create a melty cheese layer.

Prepare and Pour the Batter:

In a large bowl whisk together milk, Bisquick, and eggs until completely smooth with no lumps. The batter will bake into a soft golden topping with a slight rise. Pour it gently over the cheese and beef, allowing it to seep all around and settle evenly.

Bake to Golden Perfection:

Place the dish in a 400-degree Fahrenheit oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the topping is puffed and golden brown. The center should be fully set and not wobbly when the pan is gently shaken. Cool the pie for five to ten minutes before slicing to help the layers hold together for neat servings.

Pin

My favorite part is the golden cheesy crust that forms on top. I remember sneaking a piece right out of the oven the first time I made it and the cheese stretch was perfect. My family still fights over the crunchy corner slices.

Storage Tips

Let the pie cool completely before covering tightly with foil or storing in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for up to three days and reheats beautifully in the microwave or oven. For freezing wrap individual slices after cooling. Reheat frozen pieces by microwaving in short bursts or warming in a 350-degree oven until heated through.

Ingredient Substitutions

• Ground turkey or plant based crumbles lighten up the beef filling
• Mozzarella or Monterey Jack can replace cheddar for a different cheese flavor
• Gluten free baking mix and non-dairy milks like almond or oat work well for dietary needs
• Add chopped pickles or a bit of barbecue sauce into the beef for extra burger twist

Serving Suggestions

• Pair slices with a leafy green salad and crisp pickles for classic diner vibes
• Oven fries or roasted potatoes make it a heartier meal
• Set out bowls of chopped onions tomatoes lettuce and hot sauce so everyone can customize like a burger bar

Cultural Context

Cheeseburger pie is an American comfort dish that stretches classic burger flavors into an easy casserole format for weeknight convenience. Recipes like this gained popularity in community cookbooks from the seventies onward, offering a way to bring families together with something familiar yet new. Bisquick and baking mixes helped make this kind of home cooking accessible in mid-century kitchens.

Pro Tips

• Let the beef mixture cool before adding the batter to keep the layers distinct
• Grate your own cheddar cheese for the best melt and fresher flavor
• Don’t skip resting the pie after baking as it helps the slices hold together perfectly

Recipe FAQs

→ What is the best way to prepare the beef filling?

Brown ground beef with chopped onion and garlic until fully cooked. Drain excess fat and mix in ketchup, mustard, salt, and pepper before letting cool.

→ Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, while sharp cheddar melts beautifully, Monterey Jack, Colby, or cheese blends work well for a different taste and melt.

→ How do I ensure distinct layers in the dish?

Allow the seasoned beef mixture to cool before pouring the batter on top. This prevents blending and keeps crust and filling separate.

→ What kind of baking mix should I use?

Standard Bisquick or any all-purpose baking mix produces a light, fluffy topping that bakes to a golden finish.

→ Can this dish be made ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate the pie before baking. Reheat leftovers in the oven for best texture and flavor.