Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie has a way of making even the busiest weeknights feel like comfort food heaven. I remember the first time I tried this dish; the aroma of savory ground beef and melted cheddar wafting from the oven instantly brought me back to diner days, but with a cozy, homemade twist. This isn’t just any casserole; it’s a delightful, easy cheeseburger pie that captures all the flavor of your favorite burger in a wonderfully unique way. If you’re a fan of Ree Drummond’s cooking, you’ll adore this Ree Drummond cheeseburger pie because it’s simple, satisfying, and utterly delicious. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie
- An explosion of classic cheeseburger flavors in every bite!
- Seriously quick prep time, making it perfect for weeknights.
- It’s a budget-friendly meal that feeds the whole family without breaking the bank.
- This ground beef cheeseburger pie is incredibly family-friendly; even picky eaters devour it!
- A comforting and hearty dish that’s way more fun than a regular burger.
- The fluffy, biscuit-like topping is pure comfort food magic.
- This easy ground beef cheeseburger pie is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any gathering.
- It’s a satisfying main dish that feels special but is super simple to whip up.
Ingredients for Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie
Gathering the ingredients for this delightful cheeseburger pie recipe is a breeze. You’ll need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – the base for sautéing our savory filling.
- 1 pound lean ground beef – the star of our cheeseburger flavor.
- ½ cup chopped yellow onion – adds a touch of sweetness and depth.
- ½ teaspoon salt – to enhance all the delicious flavors.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – for that umami kick that makes it taste like a real burger.
- Cooking spray – essential for greasing the pie dish to prevent sticking.
- 2 large eggs – the binder for our fluffy, biscuit-like topping.
- 1 cup buttermilk (room temperature) – gives the topping its tender texture and slight tang.
- 1 tablespoon melted butter – adds richness to the topping batter.
- ½ cup all-purpose flour – the base for our perfectly baked topping.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – helps the topping rise beautifully.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – for that gooey, cheesy goodness we all love.
- Optional toppings: ketchup, pickles, burger sauce – to personalize your slice!
How to Make Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie
Let’s get this delicious dish assembled! Making this Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie is surprisingly straightforward, and the results are so rewarding. Here’s how to make cheeseburger pie step-by-step:
- Step 1: First things first, preheat your oven to a nice, hot 400°F (200°C). While that’s warming up, grab a skillet and heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat.
- Step 2: Add 1 pound lean ground beef, ½ cup chopped yellow onion, and ½ teaspoon salt to the skillet. Cook this mixture, breaking up the beef with a spoon, until it’s beautifully browned and the onions are tender, usually about 8–10 minutes. You’ll smell that savory aroma filling your kitchen!
- Step 3: Carefully drain off any excess grease from the skillet. This is a crucial step in how to make cheeseburger pie to avoid a soggy bottom. Stir in 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce and let it cook for another 2 minutes, letting those flavors meld.
- Step 4: Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish with cooking spray. Transfer the savory beef mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it out nice and even.
- Step 5: Now for that fluffy topping! In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs, 1 cup buttermilk (room temperature), and 1 tablespoon melted butter until smooth.
- Step 6: Whisk in ½ cup all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon baking powder into the wet ingredients until you have a smooth batter. Don’t overmix!
- Step 7: Pour this lovely batter evenly over the beef mixture in the pie dish. It will create a fantastic, biscuit-like crust as it bakes.
- Step 8: Sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese all over the top. The cheese will melt into gooey perfection.
- Step 9: Bake in your preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the topping is a beautiful golden brown and the center is fully set. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the topping comes out clean.
Pro Tips for the Best Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie
Want to elevate your cheeseburger pie game? I’ve got a few tricks that make all the difference:
- Always drain your ground beef thoroughly after cooking. This prevents a soggy bottom, which is key for that perfect texture.
- Using freshly shredded cheddar cheese melts much better than pre-shredded varieties. Trust me, it’s worth the extra minute!
- Don’t overmix the batter for the topping. Just combine until smooth; overmixing can make it tough instead of fluffy.
- Let the pie rest for at least 10 minutes after baking. This allows it to set up, making it easier to slice and serve.
What’s the secret to perfect Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie?
The secret lies in the balance of flavors and textures. Ensuring the beef mixture is well-drained and seasoned properly, combined with a light, fluffy biscuit topping and gooey cheese, makes this cheeseburger casserole truly special. For more on achieving perfect textures in cooking, you might find resources on culinary techniques helpful.
Can I make Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie ahead of time?
Yes, you absolutely can prep this dish ahead! Prepare the beef mixture and the topping batter separately. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Assemble and bake just before you’re ready to eat.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie?
The most common pitfalls are a soggy bottom from un-drained grease and an overcooked, dry topping. Make sure to drain the beef well, and don’t overbake the pie; 25 minutes is usually perfect for a golden-brown, set crust.
Best Ways to Serve Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie
This hearty Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie is a meal in itself, but it’s even better with a few simple additions. For a classic American meal, serve it alongside a crisp, fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette. The coolness of the salad perfectly complements the rich, savory pie. If you’re looking for something a bit more substantial, consider some oven-baked fries or sweet potato fries. They echo the cheeseburger theme beautifully! For those who enjoyed my Pioneer Woman ground beef casserole, this pie offers a similar comforting, family-style appeal, and pairing it with a side of steamed green beans or corn on the cob makes for a complete, satisfying dinner. You might also enjoy a side of chickpea salad for a fresh contrast.
Nutrition Facts for Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie
When you’re enjoying a slice of this delicious Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie, here’s a general idea of what you’re getting per serving. This often feels like a hearty meal, and the numbers reflect that!
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 750mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially the fat content of the ground beef and the type of cheese you select. For more information on nutritional aspects of common ingredients, you can consult resources like the USDA FoodData Central.
How to Store and Reheat Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie
Leftovers of this delightful Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie are a treat, and thankfully, it stores and reheats beautifully, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. Once the pie has cooled slightly, I like to cut it into individual portions. For refrigerated storage, place the slices in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It will keep well in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it even longer, you can freeze portions for up to 3 months. These storage methods also open up possibilities for cheeseburger pie variations in your meal planning!
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is simple. For a quick microwave reheat, just warm a slice for about 60-90 seconds until heated through. If you prefer a crisper crust, I recommend reheating in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and the topping is nicely crisped again. You can also reheat slices in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie
Can I substitute the ground beef in this Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie?
Absolutely! While ground beef is classic, you can easily swap it for ground turkey or ground chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version of this Ree Drummond cheeseburger pie, try using crumbled plant-based ground or a mix of sautéed mushrooms and black beans. If you’re interested in plant-based alternatives, exploring veggie burger recipes can offer inspiration.
What kind of cheese is best for this cheeseburger pie recipe?
Cheddar cheese is fantastic, but feel free to experiment! Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or a Mexican blend all work wonderfully. For an extra layer of flavor, you could even mix in a bit of mozzarella for that extra cheesy pull in your Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie.
My cheeseburger pie was a bit dry. How can I make it more moist?
A dry pie usually means the beef mixture was too lean or the topping was overbaked. Ensure you’re using at least 85/15 ground beef, and drain the grease well. Also, be careful not to overcook the topping; bake just until golden brown and set. Using buttermilk in the topping batter also adds significant moisture to this Ree Drummond cheeseburger pie.
Can I add vegetables to the beef mixture?
Yes, you can definitely boost the veggie content! Sautéing finely chopped bell peppers, carrots, or even corn along with the onions and beef adds extra flavor and nutrients. Just make sure they are cooked until tender before adding the topping.
Variations of Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie You Can Try
While the classic Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie is amazing, I love how versatile it is! If you’re looking to switch things up or accommodate different tastes, here are a few ideas. For a lighter take on this savory cheeseburger pie recipe, try swapping the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. You could also explore a vegetarian version by using crumbled plant-based meat or a hearty mix of sautéed mushrooms and black beans in place of the beef. Some folks even experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a little heat or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella for extra gooeyness! If you enjoy hearty beef dishes, you might also like pappardelle with beef ragu.
- Turkey or Chicken Cheeseburger Pie: Substitute 1 pound of ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Vegetarian Cheeseburger Pie: Use 1 pound of your favorite plant-based ground “beef” or sautéed mushrooms and black beans.
- Spicy Cheeseburger Pie: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture or use pepper jack cheese for a kick.
- Cheeseburger Pie with Biscuits: Instead of the pour-over batter, top the beef mixture with refrigerated biscuits before baking.
Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie: 1 Amazing Meal
Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie is a hearty casserole that combines savory ground beef, melted cheddar cheese, and a fluffy biscuit-like topping. It’s an easy and comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings, offering all the delicious flavors of a cheeseburger in a convenient pie format.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- ½ cup chopped yellow onion
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Cooking spray (for greasing the pie dish)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk (room temperature)
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional toppings: ketchup, pickles, burger sauce
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, onions, and salt. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are soft, about 8–10 minutes. Drain off excess grease, then stir in Worcestershire sauce and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish with cooking spray. Transfer the beef mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, and melted butter. Add in the flour and baking powder, and mix until the batter is smooth.
- Pour the batter evenly over the beef mixture in the pie dish. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is fully set.
- Let the pie cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with your favorite burger toppings like ketchup, mustard, or pickles.
Notes
- Drain the beef well after cooking to prevent a soggy pie.
- Use freshly grated cheese for better melting.
- Season the beef mixture generously for optimal flavor.
- Add burger-style garnishes like pickles or ketchup just before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
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