The Pioneer Woman’s Cheeseburger Pie
Introduction
The Pioneer Woman’s Cheeseburger Pie is a delightful comfort food that takes the classic flavors of a cheeseburger and transforms them into a warm, hearty, and easy-to-make pie. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, offering the satisfaction of a cheeseburger in a creative and nostalgic way. Its combination of savory ground beef, gooey cheese, and a fluffy crust will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Cheeseburger Pie is a spin-off of traditional American cheeseburgers, reflecting the creativity of home cooks who sought new ways to enjoy classic comfort foods. This dish rose to popularity in the mid-20th century as part of the era’s love for casseroles and “one-dish meals.” The Pioneer Woman’s version embraces simplicity and homestyle cooking, making it a modern favorite for busy families. Its cultural significance lies in its ability to bring together the familiar flavors of a burger in a family-friendly format.
Ingredients Quantity
For the Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup (4 oz) shredded cheddar cheese
For the Batter (Crust):
- 1/2 cup Bisquick (or any all-purpose baking mix)
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
Optional Toppings:
- Ketchup
- Mustard
- Pickles
- Sliced tomatoes or lettuce
Optional Additions
- Diced green bell peppers for extra flavor.
- Crumbled bacon for a smoky touch.
- A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top before baking for added richness.
Tips for Success
- Drain the Beef: Make sure to drain excess grease from the beef to avoid a soggy pie.
- Even Layering: Spread the beef and cheese evenly in the pie dish to ensure every slice has balanced flavors.
- Don’t Overmix Batter: Whisk the Bisquick batter until just combined to maintain a light, fluffy texture.
- Use Fresh Cheese: Grate your own cheddar for the best melt and flavor.
- Customize: Add toppings after baking for a more “cheeseburger-like” experience.
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9-inch pie dish or baking dish.
- Cook the Beef Mixture:
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion is soft.
- Stir in garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute and remove from heat.
- Assemble the Pie:
- Spread the beef mixture evenly in the prepared pie dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the beef layer.
- Make the Batter:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the Bisquick, milk, and eggs until smooth.
- Pour the batter evenly over the beef and cheese mixture.
- Bake the Pie:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and set in the center.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the pie cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm with ketchup, mustard, or other favorite burger toppings.
Description
The Pioneer Woman’s Cheeseburger Pie is a savory, satisfying dish that combines the juicy flavors of seasoned ground beef with the creamy richness of melted cheddar cheese. The Bisquick crust provides a soft, biscuit-like topping that perfectly complements the hearty filling. Each bite is reminiscent of a classic cheeseburger, making it both comforting and nostalgic.
Nutritional Information (approximate per serving, based on 6 servings)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
Conclusion
The Pioneer Woman’s Cheeseburger Pie is the ultimate comfort food, combining simplicity, versatility, and bold flavors in one dish. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a potluck, this recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Recommendation
Serve Cheeseburger Pie with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. For an authentic burger experience, top each slice with ketchup, mustard, and pickles!
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
For a lighter version, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, low-fat cheese, and a whole-grain baking mix for the crust. This way, you can still enjoy the indulgence of this dish while keeping it healthier.
Would you like to explore any variations or sides to pair with this recipe?