Classic American Cheeseburger Pie Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 large onion, chopped (1 cup)
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- Garlic powder, to taste (optional)
- 2 cups grated Cheddar cheese
- ½ cup Bisquick mix (or all-purpose flour for a firmer texture)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3 large eggs
- 4 slices American cheese
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C).
- Prepare the Pie Plate:
- Grease a 9-inch glass pie plate with butter or vegetable oil for a richer flavor.
- Cook the Onion:
- In a large skillet, cook the chopped onion in butter or oil over medium heat until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Cook the Beef:
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, season with salt, black pepper, and optional garlic powder. Cook until browned and no pink remains, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Layer the Beef and Cheese:
- Spread the cooked beef and onion mixture into the prepared pie plate. Top with 1 cup of the grated Cheddar cheese.
- Prepare the Batter:
- In a bowl, beat together Bisquick mix, milk, and eggs until smooth. Pour over the beef and cheese in the pie plate.
- First Bake:
- Bake for 25 minutes.
- Add American Cheese:
- Carefully remove the pie from the oven, lay the American cheese slices on top, and sprinkle the remaining cup of grated Cheddar cheese over it.
- Second Bake:
- Return the pie to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly, and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Set and Serve:
- Let the pie stand for 5 minutes before slicing and serving to allow the filling to set.
Prep Time:
- 15 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 30 minutes
Total Time:
- 45 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Kcal: Adjusted for additional cheese (will be higher than 540 kcal)
- Servings: 4
Most Popular Questions and Their Answers Related to Classic American Cheeseburger Pie
Q1: Can I use a different type of cheese?
- A: Yes, you can substitute Cheddar cheese with other types such as Monterey Jack, Mozzarella, or a cheese blend. American cheese gives a classic cheeseburger taste, but you can use any cheese you prefer.
Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- A: Yes, you can prepare the pie up to the point of baking and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before placing it in the preheated oven.
Q3: What can I use instead of Bisquick mix?
- A: You can use all-purpose flour mixed with a teaspoon of baking powder for a similar result. This will give a firmer texture compared to Bisquick.
Q4: Can I add vegetables to the pie?
- A: Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach. Sauté them along with the onions before mixing with the beef.
Q5: How do I store leftovers?
- A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Q6: Can I freeze the pie?
- A: Yes, you can freeze the pie. Bake and cool it completely, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q7: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
- A: Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to beef. The cooking time remains the same.
Q8: What sides go well with this dish?
- A: This pie pairs well with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or mashed potatoes.
Q9: How do I make the pie spicier?
- A: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
Q10: Can I use a different type of meat?
- A: Yes, ground chicken, pork, or a meatless alternative can be used in place of ground beef.
Q11: How can I make this dish gluten-free?
- A: Use a gluten-free baking mix instead of Bisquick and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Q12: Can I add bacon to this recipe?
- A: Absolutely! Adding cooked, crumbled bacon to the beef mixture adds an extra layer of flavor.
Q13: Is it necessary to drain the beef after cooking?
- A: Yes, draining the beef helps remove excess fat, preventing the pie from becoming too greasy.
Q14: How do I prevent the pie from becoming too soggy?
- A: Make sure to drain the beef well and don’t add too much liquid to the batter. Baking the pie until the center is set will also help.
Q15: Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
- A: Yes, pre-shredded cheese works fine, though freshly grated cheese tends to melt better.
Q16: What can I use instead of a glass pie plate?
- A: You can use a metal pie tin or an oven-safe ceramic dish as an alternative.
Q17: Can I add more eggs for a firmer filling?
- A: Yes, you can add an extra egg if you prefer a firmer, more custard-like filling.
Q18: How do I know when the pie is done?
- A: The pie is done when the center is set, and a knife inserted in the middle comes out clean. The top should be golden and bubbly.
Q19: Can I add herbs to the recipe?
- A: Yes, fresh or dried herbs like parsley, oregano, or thyme can be added for extra flavor.
Q20: Can I use milk alternatives?
- A: Yes, you can use milk alternatives like almond milk or soy milk, but it may slightly alter the flavor and texture.
These tips and answers will help you create a delicious Classic American Cheeseburger Pie and customize it to suit your preferences!
Achieving the perfect Classic American Cheeseburger Pie involves attention to detail, quality ingredients, and a few culinary tricks. Here are some secrets to help you make the best cheeseburger pie:
1. Use High-Quality Ground Beef:
- Opt for 80/20 ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat) for a juicy and flavorful filling.
2. Caramelize the Onions:
- Cook the onions slowly over medium-low heat until they turn golden brown. This adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
3. Season Generously:
- Don’t skimp on seasoning. Use salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce for a robust flavor.
4. Incorporate Fresh Herbs:
- Add fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or chives to the beef mixture for a burst of freshness.
5. Mix Cheeses:
- Use a blend of cheeses such as Cheddar, Gruyere, and Mozzarella for a more complex and rich flavor.
6. Add a Crunchy Topping:
- Mix Panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top of the pie for a crispy texture.
7. Use Freshly Grated Cheese:
- Grate your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded. It melts better and has a fresher taste.
8. Enhance with Bacon:
- Add cooked, crumbled bacon to the beef mixture for a smoky, savory touch.
9. Include Veggies:
- Finely chop bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach and mix them into the beef for added nutrition and flavor.
10. Make a Homemade Crust:
- If you have the time, make a homemade pie crust or use a savory biscuit dough for the base instead of Bisquick.
11. Layer the Cheese:
- Layer cheese between the beef and on top for a gooey, cheesy experience in every bite.
12. Top with Fresh Ingredients:
- After baking, top with fresh ingredients like diced tomatoes, lettuce, or pickles for a fresh contrast.
13. Use Whole Milk:
- Use whole milk for the Bisquick mixture to ensure a richer, creamier texture.
14. Add a Dash of Mustard:
- Mix a small amount of Dijon or yellow mustard into the beef for a tangy kick.
15. Bake Until Golden:
- Make sure the pie is baked until the top is golden and bubbly, and the filling is set.
16. Use a Cast-Iron Skillet:
- If possible, cook the beef in a cast-iron skillet and transfer it directly to the oven-safe pie dish. This adds flavor and ensures even cooking.
17. Include Pickle Relish:
- Stir in a tablespoon of sweet pickle relish into the beef mixture for a sweet and tangy flavor.
18. Add Heat:
- If you like it spicy, add some chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture.
19. Let It Rest:
- Allow the pie to rest for a few minutes after baking to let the filling set and make slicing easier.
20. Pair with the Right Sides:
- Serve with classic sides like coleslaw, a green salad, or roasted vegetables to complete the meal.
By following these secrets, you can elevate your Classic American Cheeseburger Pie from good to exceptional, ensuring a delightful meal every time.
Tips to Make Classic American Cheeseburger Pie More Delightful
- Use High-Quality Ground Beef: Opt for a higher fat content (80/20) ground beef for a juicier and more flavorful pie.
- Caramelize the Onions: Instead of just softening the onions, caramelize them for a richer, deeper flavor.
- Add Bacon: Mix in cooked, crumbled bacon with the beef for added smoky flavor.
- Incorporate Pickles: Chop up some dill pickles and mix them into the beef for a tangy, classic cheeseburger taste.
- Use a Variety of Cheeses: Instead of just Cheddar, try a blend of cheeses such as Cheddar, Mozzarella, and Swiss for a more complex flavor.
- Season the Beef Well: Add additional seasonings like Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, or mustard powder to the beef mixture for extra depth.
- Top with Sautéed Mushrooms: Sauté mushrooms in butter and garlic and add them on top of the beef before adding the cheese.
- Add a Crispy Topping: Mix some breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top of the cheese for a crunchy finish.
- Incorporate Veggies: Add finely chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the beef mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or thyme into the beef mixture or sprinkle on top for a burst of freshness.
- Make a Spicy Version: Add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
- Layer the Cheese: Layer the cheese in the middle and on top of the beef mixture for a gooey, cheesy center.
- Homemade Bisquick Mix: Make your own Bisquick mix using flour, baking powder, salt, and cold butter for a more homemade touch.
- Sauté Garlic with Onions: Add minced garlic to the onions while cooking for an extra layer of flavor.
- Add a Dash of Mustard: Mix a teaspoon of Dijon or yellow mustard into the beef mixture for a tangy bite.
- Use Whole Milk: Use whole milk instead of lower-fat options for a creamier texture in the batter.
- Grate Your Own Cheese: Grate your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded cheese for better melting and a fresher taste.
- Top with Fresh Tomatoes: Add slices of fresh tomatoes on top of the pie before baking for added moisture and flavor.
- Serve with Condiments: Offer classic burger condiments like ketchup, mustard, or relish on the side for extra flavor.
- Make It Mini: Use a muffin tin to make mini cheeseburger pies, perfect for appetizers or party snacks.