Name: Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie: Comfort Food Made Easy
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Lean Ground Beef (Provides juicy flavor; substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.); 1 medium Onion (Adds sweetness and depth; can be replaced with shallots or omitted.); 2 cloves Minced Garlic (Enhances savory taste; optional.); 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese (Creates a gooey topping; swap for Monterey Jack if desired.); 3 large Eggs (Acts as a binder; no substitutes recommended.); 1 cup Milk (Adds creaminess; non-dairy milk works as an alternative.); 1 cup Bisquick Mix (Forms the crust; homemade alternatives are fine.); to taste Salt (Essential for seasoning.); to taste Pepper (Essential for seasoning.)

As I strolled through the farmers’ market last weekend, the aroma of grilling burgers wafted through the air, instantly making my mouth water. That enticing flavor inspired me to create my own version of a classic comfort dish: the Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie. This delicious recipe brilliantly combines juicy ground beef, melted cheddar, and savory onions, all tucked inside a warm, biscuit-like crust. Not only is it a cozy, crowd-pleaser for chilly evenings, but it also comes together in a flash—a perfect solution for busy weeknight dinners. With customizable toppings and easy preparation, this dish is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. Ready to dig into this delicious take on a family favorite? Let me show you how!

Why is Cheeseburger Pie So Appealing?

Comforting and Familiar: This Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie brings the beloved flavors of a classic cheeseburger to your dinner table in a new, cozy format.

Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cooking time, you’ll have a hearty meal ready in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!

Customizable Delight: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or mix in veggies for a personal touch, just like with my Marshmallow Rice Krispies treats!

Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this dish, making it a hit at any gathering.

Satisfying Texture: The soft, cheesy filling is enveloped in a crisp crust, bringing a delightful contrast that everyone will love.

In sum, this dish is not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that you’ll want to make again and again!

Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie Ingredients

Dive into a world of comfort with these essential components!

For the Filling
• Lean Ground Beef – Provides juicy flavor; substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Onion – Adds sweetness and depth; can be replaced with shallots or omitted for a milder taste.
• Minced Garlic – Enhances savory taste; optional for those who prefer a subtler flavor.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Creates a gooey topping essential to cheeseburger flavor; swap for any melting cheese like Monterey Jack.

For the Base
• Eggs – Acts as a binder to hold the pie together; no substitutes recommended for structural integrity.
• Milk – Adds creaminess to the custard-like base; use any non-dairy milk as a suitable alternative.
• Bisquick Mix – Forms the crust; an alternative is a homemade mix of flour, baking powder, salt, and butter.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste for optimal flavor.

This collection of ingredients will ensure that your Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie is a hit at your dinner table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures that your Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie will bake evenly, creating a beautifully golden crust. As the oven heats, it gives you a chance to prep your other ingredients without delay.

Step 2: Brown the Beef and Onions
In a large skillet over medium heat, add lean ground beef and finely chopped onions. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent. If using minced garlic, add it in the last minute of cooking for that aromatic flavor. Drain excess fat from the skillet to prevent a greasy pie.

Step 3: Season the Mixture
Once the beef and onions are cooked, season the mixture generously with salt and pepper. For an extra zing, consider stirring in a tablespoon of ketchup or mustard if desired. Mix well until everything is combined, ensuring the flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Prepare the Pie Dish
Grease a 9-inch pie dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil to ensure your Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie releases easily after baking. Spread the beef mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish, creating a solid foundation for the pie.

Step 5: Add the Cheese Layer
Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef layer. The cheese will melt into the savory filling, creating a gooey, delicious topping that is quintessential to the cheeseburger experience. Make sure to cover the beef mixture well for maximum cheesiness.

Step 6: Mix the Custard Base
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and Bisquick mix until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. This will form the custard-like layer that holds everything together. Pour this mixture carefully over the beef and cheese layers, ensuring an even distribution.

Step 7: Bake the Cheeseburger Pie
Place the pie dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it cooks; the top should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. This indicates that the filling is set and ready to serve.

Step 8: Let it Rest
After baking, remove the casseroles from the oven and allow it to rest for about 5-10 minutes. This resting period helps the filling firm up, making it easier to slice the pie neatly.

Step 9: Add Optional Garnishes
For the final touch, consider garnishing your Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie with pickles, lettuce, or a dollop of ketchup. These toppings add a fresh, colorful touch to your comforting dish and enhance the classic cheeseburger vibe. Enjoy your delightful creation!

Make Ahead Options

These Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie preparations are a lifesaver for busy weeknights! You can assemble the entire pie up to 24 hours in advance—simply prepare the beef, cheese, and custard layers as instructed, then store it covered in the refrigerator. To maintain the quality of the biscuit-like crust, ensure your pie dish is tightly wrapped to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, preheat the oven and bake the pie as directed, allowing for just a little extra time for the center to heat through. This way, you’ll have a delicious, home-cooked meal with minimal effort!

Variations & Substitutions for Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie

Feel free to play around with these ideas and make this delicious dish perfectly your own!

Dairy-Free: Swap cheddar cheese for a dairy-free cheese alternative to cater to lactose sensitivities. This way, everyone can indulge in this warm delight!
Vegetarian: Use cooked lentils or mushrooms instead of beef for a hearty vegetarian twist. The earthy flavors will still give you that comforting feel.
Extra Veggies: Stir in some diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach into the beef mixture for a nutritious boost. It’s a wonderful way to sneak in more greens!
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. This little twist can spice up your dinner in the most delightful way!
Barbecue Flavor: Drizzle barbecue sauce over the beef layer before adding the cheese for a smoky, tangy element. Think of it as a cheeseburger with a southern flair!
Mini Pies: Make individual servings by using a muffin tin instead of a pie dish. Perfect for parties or family gatherings, these mini versions are sure to impress!
Homemade Bisquick: Create your own crust using flour, baking powder, butter, and milk for a fresh twist on the traditional base. Baking from scratch adds a personal touch.
Top It Off: Give a nod to classic toppings by adding pickles, lettuce, or even a dollop of ketchup post-baking. They add freshness and flavor, just like in a real cheeseburger!

With all these possibilities, your Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie will always be a crowd-pleaser. If you’re in the mood for a sweet treat afterward, don’t forget to check out my Pumpkin Pie Energy bites or my Marshmallow Rice Krispies for a cozy dessert! Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Tips for the Best Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie

Perfectly Browned Beef: Ensure your ground beef is browned thoroughly to enhance flavor; undercooked meat can lead to a soggy pie.
Don’t Skip Cooling: Allow the pie to rest after baking; this helps maintain its shape when sliced, preventing any filling from spilling out.
Grease Wisely: Make sure to grease your pie dish properly; a well-greased dish ensures easy removal of the cheeseburger pie without sticking.
Balance Seasoning: Taste your beef mixture after seasoning; the right balance of salt and pepper makes the flavors pop, ensuring a satisfying bite.
Experiment with Toppings: Try adding toppings like jalapeños, onions, or barbecue sauce to personalize your Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie for different tastes.

What to Serve with Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie

When you create this hearty dish, think about fresh and vibrant sides that can brighten up your dinner table.

Simple Garden Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the richness of the pie.
Garlic Breadsticks: Warm, buttery breadsticks are perfect for sopping up any delicious drippings from the cheeseburger pie, making every bite more satisfying.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like carrots and zucchini, roasted to perfection, provide a colorful and nutritious contrast to the main dish.
Creamy Coleslaw: The creaminess and slight tang of coleslaw complement the savory flavors of the cheeseburger pie, creating a delightful medley of textures.
Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries bring a hint of sweetness and a satisfying crunch, amplifying the comfort food experience.
Baked Beans: The smoky and sweet taste of baked beans pairs wonderfully with the cheeseburger pie, enhancing the hearty meal vibe.
Homemade Pickles: Adding a side of tangy homemade pickles can elevate your cheeseburger pie, adding a zesty pop to each bite.
Fizzy Lemonade: A refreshing glass of lemonade or iced tea offers a bright, citrusy contrast, perfectly quenching your thirst alongside the richness of the pie.

How to Store and Freeze Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Be sure to let the pie cool completely before sealing.

Freezer: Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight before baking at 350°F until heated through.

Reheating: Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or heat the entire pie in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes. Enjoy your delicious Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie all over again!

Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie Recipe FAQs

What kind of meat is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie, lean ground beef is fantastic for achieving that juicy flavor. However, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. If you’re feeling adventurous, plant-based ground meat is a great alternative too!

How should I store leftovers?
Very good question! To maintain freshness, store any leftovers of your Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Just make sure it cools completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Can I freeze this pie?
Yes, you can! Wrap your fully cooled Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. It will stay fresh for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

What should I do if my pie crust turns soggy?
If your crust ends up soggy, don’t worry! This can happen if the beef mixture is too greasy or if you add too much liquid. To prevent this, always drain excess fat from the ground beef and let the pie rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to allow it to set. If it’s already baked and soggy, you can try baking it a bit longer to crisp it up, but note that this might alter the texture slightly.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! The Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie can be tailored to accommodate various dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, simply use a gluten-free Bisquick mix. Additionally, if you’re looking to make it dairy-free, you can use non-dairy milk instead of regular milk and replace cheese with a non-dairy cheese alternative. Always check labels to avoid allergens if you’re cooking for someone with food sensitivities.