Cheeseburger Pie Pioneer Woman: A weeknight dinner hero that’s ready in a flash! Are you craving the satisfying flavors of a juicy cheeseburger but short on time? Then look no further! This recipe, inspired by the queen of comfort food herself, offers all the deliciousness of a classic cheeseburger in a convenient and crowd-pleasing pie form.
While the exact origins of Cheeseburger Pie are debated, its popularity likely stems from the desire for a quick and easy meal that satisfies the universal love for cheeseburgers. Think of it as a deconstructed cheeseburger, baked to golden perfection. It’s a dish that speaks to our inner child, reminding us of backyard barbecues and carefree summer days.
What makes this particular version so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of savory ground beef, melted cheese, and a flaky crust (or a simple biscuit topping, depending on your preference!). The texture is divine a creamy, cheesy filling nestled within a comforting base. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can customize it with your favorite cheeseburger toppings, like pickles, onions, or even a drizzle of ketchup and mustard after baking. Trust me, once you try this Cheeseburger Pie Pioneer Woman style, it will become a regular in your dinner rotation. It’s a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults!
Ingredients:
- For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- 1/4 cup cold shortening, cut into cubes
- 5-7 tablespoons ice water
- For the Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cheddar cheese soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- Optional toppings: chopped tomatoes, shredded lettuce, dill pickle slices
Preparing the Crust:
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. This ensures the salt is evenly distributed throughout the crust, which is crucial for flavor.
- Cut in the Fat: Add the cold butter and shortening to the flour mixture. Using a pastry blender or your fingertips (work quickly to keep the fat cold!), cut the fat into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The size of the crumbs is important; you want some small pieces and some slightly larger ones for a flaky crust.
- Add Ice Water: Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently after each addition. Be careful not to overmix. You want just enough water to bring the dough together. The dough should be moist but not sticky.
- Form the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently form it into a disk. Wrap the disk tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time is essential; it allows the gluten to relax, which will prevent the crust from shrinking during baking.
- Roll Out the Dough: After chilling, remove the dough from the refrigerator and let it sit for a few minutes to soften slightly. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a 12-inch circle.
- Transfer to Pie Plate: Carefully transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie plate. Press the dough into the bottom and up the sides of the plate. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to create a decorative border. You can use a fork to poke holes in the bottom of the crust; this will prevent it from puffing up during baking.
- Pre-bake the Crust (Optional): For a crispier crust, you can pre-bake it. Line the crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes. Remove the parchment paper and pie weights and bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden brown. Let the crust cool slightly before adding the filling. If you skip this step, the bottom crust may be a little softer.
Preparing the Filling:
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Add Onion: Once the ground beef is browned, drain off any excess grease. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Season the Mixture: Stir in the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. These spices add depth and complexity to the flavor of the filling.
- Add Sauces: Add the ketchup, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet. Stir to combine. These sauces contribute to the classic cheeseburger flavor.
- Incorporate Cheese Soup and Milk: In a separate bowl, whisk together the condensed cheddar cheese soup and milk until smooth. Pour the cheese soup mixture into the skillet with the ground beef and onion. Stir to combine.
- Add Cheese: Stir in 3/4 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Reserve the remaining 1/4 cup for topping.
Assembling and Baking the Pie:
- Pour Filling into Crust: Pour the ground beef mixture into the prepared pie crust. Spread it evenly.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the filling.
- Bake the Pie: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Let Cool Slightly: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the filling to set slightly, making it easier to slice.
- Add Toppings (Optional): Before serving, you can add your favorite cheeseburger toppings, such as chopped tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and dill pickle slices.
Tips and Variations:
- Crust Variations: For a quicker option, you can use a store-bought pie crust. You can also use a refrigerated pie crust dough.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even a blend of cheeses would work well.
- Meat Variations: Ground turkey or ground chicken can be substituted for ground beef.
- Vegetable Additions: Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the filling for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Spice Level: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a little heat.
- Bacon: Cooked and crumbled bacon would be a delicious addition to the filling or as a topping.
- Freezing Instructions: You can freeze the cheeseburger pie before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw the pie in the refrigerator overnight. Bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if necessary.
- Make it Mini: Use muffin tins to create individual cheeseburger pies. Adjust the baking time accordingly.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the cheeseburger pie with a side salad or coleslaw for a complete meal.
Troubleshooting:
- Crust is Soggy: Make sure to pre-bake the crust if you want a crispier bottom. Also, avoid overfilling the pie.
- Filling is Too Runny: Make sure to drain off any excess grease from the ground beef. You can also add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the filling to help thicken it.
- Crust is Burning: If the crust is browning too quickly, cover the edges with aluminum foil.
- Pie is Not Cooking Evenly: Rotate the pie halfway through baking to ensure even cooking.
Nutritional Information (Approximate):
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
- Calories: 450-550 per slice
- Fat: 30-40g
- Saturated Fat: 15-20g
- Cholesterol: 100-120mg
- Sodium: 800-1000mg
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
- Fiber: 2-3g
- Sugar: 5-7g
- Protein: 20-25g
Why This Recipe Works:
This Cheeseburger Pie recipe is a crowd-pleaser because it combines the comforting flavors of a classic cheeseburger in an easy-to-make pie form. The homemade crust adds a flaky and buttery texture that complements the savory filling. The combination of ground beef, onion, cheese soup, and cheddar cheese creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile. The optional toppings allow you to customize the pie to your liking. It’s a fun and delicious way to enjoy a cheeseburger without the bun!
Storage Instructions:
Leftover cheeseburger pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, cover the pie with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also reheat individual slices in the microwave.
Conclusion:
Okay, friends, let’s be honest: this Cheeseburger Pie Pioneer Woman style is a total game-changer. If you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that’s quick, satisfying, and guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters, then you absolutely have to give this recipe a try. It’s the ultimate comfort food, reimagined in a fun and easy pie format. Think all the deliciousness of a juicy cheeseburger, but without the fuss of grilling or assembling individual patties. It’s a win-win! What makes this pie so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of savory ground beef, gooey melted cheese, and a flaky, golden crust. Each bite is an explosion of flavor that will leave you wanting more. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it to suit your own preferences and dietary needs. Looking for serving suggestions? I love to serve this Cheeseburger Pie Pioneer Woman style with a simple side salad for a complete and balanced meal. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pie. Alternatively, you could offer some classic burger accompaniments like dill pickles, sliced tomatoes, and shredded lettuce for topping. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of your favorite burger sauce would also be fantastic additions. But the fun doesn’t stop there! Feel free to experiment with different variations to create your own signature cheeseburger pie. Want to add some heat? Throw in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the ground beef mixture. Craving something a little more sophisticated? Try using a blend of different cheeses, such as Gruyere or sharp cheddar, for a more complex flavor profile. You could even add some caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms for extra depth. For a healthier twist, consider using lean ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef. You can also lighten up the crust by using a whole-wheat pie crust or even skipping the crust altogether and making it a crustless casserole. The possibilities are endless! And don’t forget about the toppings! Get creative and let your imagination run wild. Bacon bits, chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or even a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning would all be delicious additions. I truly believe that this Cheeseburger Pie Pioneer Woman recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves cheeseburgers and easy, satisfying meals. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will become a staple in your dinner rotation. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the ultimate cheeseburger pie sensation. I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Once you’ve made this recipe, please come back and share your thoughts in the comments below. Did you make any modifications? What toppings did you use? What did your family think? I’m always eager to learn from your experiences and see how you’ve made this recipe your own. Happy baking, and enjoy your delicious Cheeseburger Pie Pioneer Woman style! I can’t wait to hear all about it! Print
Cheeseburger Pie Pioneer Woman: A Delicious & Easy Recipe
- Total Time: 70 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings 1x
Description
A fun and easy Cheeseburger Pie with a flaky crust and a savory filling of ground beef, cheese, and classic cheeseburger flavors. Customize with your favorite toppings!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
- 1/4 cup cold shortening, cut into cubes
- 5–7 tablespoons ice water
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cheddar cheese soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Add the cold butter and shortening to the flour mixture. Using a pastry blender or your fingertips (work quickly to keep the fat cold!), cut the fat into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently after each addition. Be careful not to overmix. You want just enough water to bring the dough together. The dough should be moist but not sticky.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently form it into a disk. Wrap the disk tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- After chilling, remove the dough from the refrigerator and let it sit for a few minutes to soften slightly. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a 12-inch circle.
- Carefully transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie plate. Press the dough into the bottom and up the sides of the plate. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to create a decorative border. You can use a fork to poke holes in the bottom of the crust.
- For a crispier crust, you can pre-bake it. Line the crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes. Remove the parchment paper and pie weights and bake for another 5-7 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden brown. Let the crust cool slightly before adding the filling.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Once the ground beef is browned, drain off any excess grease. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Add the ketchup, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet. Stir to combine.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the condensed cheddar cheese soup and milk until smooth. Pour the cheese soup mixture into the skillet with the ground beef and onion. Stir to combine.
- Stir in 3/4 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Reserve the remaining 1/4 cup for topping.
- Pour the ground beef mixture into the prepared pie crust. Spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the filling.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
- Before serving, you can add your favorite cheeseburger toppings, such as chopped tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and dill pickle slices.
Notes
- Crust Variations: For a quicker option, you can use a store-bought pie crust. You can also use a refrigerated pie crust dough.
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even a blend of cheeses would work well.
- Meat Variations: Ground turkey or ground chicken can be substituted for ground beef.
- Vegetable Additions: Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the filling for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Spice Level: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a little heat.
- Bacon: Cooked and crumbled bacon would be a delicious addition to the filling or as a topping.
- Freezing Instructions: You can freeze the cheeseburger pie before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw the pie in the refrigerator overnight. Bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if necessary.
- Make it Mini: Use muffin tins to create individual cheeseburger pies. Adjust the baking time accordingly.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the cheeseburger pie with a side salad or coleslaw for a complete meal.
- Crust is Soggy: Make sure to pre-bake the crust if you want a crispier bottom. Also, avoid overfilling the pie.
- Filling is Too Runny: Make sure to drain off any excess grease from the ground beef. You can also add a tablespoon of cornstarch to the filling to help thicken it.
- Crust is Burning: If the crust is browning too quickly, cover the edges with aluminum foil.
- Pie is Not Cooking Evenly: Rotate the pie halfway through baking to ensure even cooking.
- Storage Instructions: Leftover cheeseburger pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, cover the pie with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also reheat individual slices in the microwave.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30
