Satisfying Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger

Cheeseburger pie is that cozy comfort food you turn to when you want all the flavors of a classic burger in a sliceable, shareable form. There is nothing fussy here just juicy ground beef, melty cheddar, and a custardy topping that bakes up golden and satisfying. My family asks for this when they want a weeknight dinner that feels both special and familiar.

I first baked this on a chilly weekend when everyone was craving takeout and now it is high on our rotation for easy dinners that please even picky eaters.

Ingredients

• Olive oil: lets you brown the beef and adds extra juiciness reach for extra virgin if possible for its richer flavor
• Lean ground beef: creates that classic burger base pick fresh bright red meat for the best taste
• Yellow onion: chopped fine delivers sweetness and depth a firm onion with papery skin is your best bet
• Kosher salt: ensures the beef is well seasoned and rounds out other flavors
• Worcestershire sauce: gives a beefy boost look for brands without too many additives
• Large eggs: help the pie set with a light custardy texture use the freshest eggs you can
• Whole buttermilk: brings tang and richness shake the carton before pouring for best results
• Salted butter: melted makes the topping tender and savory
• All-purpose flour: binds the ingredients together and keeps the pie sturdy choose unbleached if you can
• Baking powder: lifts the final result for a fluffy but sliceable texture be sure yours is fresh
• Shredded cheddar cheese: adds gooey melt and sharpness hand shred for best results if you have time
• Pickle slices: optional for bright crunch use cold crisp pickles for extra snap
• Ketchup or burger sauce: optional dips that complete the burger theme try your favorite brand or recipe

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit so it is piping hot before you bake the pie This ensures the top sets and turns golden

Sauté the Beef and Onions:

Heat a large skillet over medium Add olive oil then the ground beef chopped onion and kosher salt Cook the beef slowly breaking up the meat with a spoon as you go Stir every couple minutes until the meat is evenly browned and the onion is soft around eight to ten minutes Pour off any extra fat if you prefer Then add the Worcestershire sauce cook for about two more minutes so the flavor soaks in

Prepare the Pie Plate:

Mist a nine inch pie dish lightly with nonstick spray This helps the slices come out clean Transfer the beef onion mixture to the pie dish and flatten it gently with a spatula so the layer is even

Whisk the Topping:

In a medium mixing bowl beat together the eggs buttermilk and melted butter until they look smooth and creamy Add the flour and baking powder Whisk again until there are no lumps at all The batter should be pourable and pale yellow

Assemble and Bake:

Pour the egg mixture carefully over the beef in the pie dish making sure every bit of meat is covered even the edges Sprinkle shredded cheddar all over the top for perfect meltiness Slide the dish into your hot oven and bake about twenty five minutes The top should turn golden brown and the center should feel set if you tap it gently

Serve and Enjoy:

Let the pie cool for five minutes before you slice This helps each wedge hold together Serve with pickle slices ketchup or any burger sauce you like

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Cheddar is my favorite part the way it bubbles up over the top is so inviting My kids love adding extra pickles on theirs and it always brings back memories of busy weeknights when all we needed was something cheesy to make us smile

Storage Tips

Leftovers keep very well in the fridge for up to three days Wrap the dish or transfer slices to an airtight container Reheat gently in the microwave or oven for melty cheese with no sogginess This pie makes a great packed lunch the next day too

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken if you want a lighter taste For a fun twist mix in a little crumbled bacon or try shredded mozzarella in place of cheddar If buttermilk is hard to find stir one cup of milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice and let it sit for five minutes

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Serving Suggestions

A crisp green salad or roasted potatoes on the side make this a dinner that feels complete For a true diner vibe offer a tray of sliced tomatoes lettuce and onions so everyone can top their pie as they please

Cultural and Historical Context

This classic comforts generations and nods to the famous hamburger pie featured on Bisquick boxes decades ago It is a dish that’s evolved in American kitchens often changing with whatever is in the pantry It bridges the gap between a hearty breakfast casserole and savory dinner pie

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, substitute ground turkey for a lighter take. Cook as you would the beef, seasoning well to develop flavor.

→ What cheese works best for this dish?

Cheddar is classic, but Colby Jack or Monterey Jack can be used for a slightly different flavor and melt.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble the dish, refrigerate, and bake when ready. Or bake ahead and rewarm slices before serving.

→ What toppings are recommended?

Serve with pickles, ketchup, or burger sauce for an authentic cheeseburger touch. Fresh greens also pair well.

→ Can this be made gluten-free?

Swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free baking blend to enjoy a gluten-free version.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Cover and refrigerate any leftovers. Reheat individual slices in the microwave or oven until warmed through.