Southern Style Cheeseburger Pie

This Southern Style Cheeseburger Pie transforms everyone's favorite fast food into a comforting family-friendly dinner that comes together in just about 45 minutes. When busy weeknights call for something hearty yet simple, this savory pie delivers the nostalgic flavors of a classic cheeseburger in sliceable form.

I first created this recipe when my children were going through their picky eating phase, and it instantly became our Thursday night tradition. The familiar flavors of a cheeseburger in this easy-to-make pie format won over even my most skeptical eater.

• Ground beef creates the hearty foundation with rich savory flavor
• Small onion adds aromatic sweetness that enhances the beef
• Worcestershire sauce provides that distinctive umami depth
• Tomato ketchup brings familiar tanginess and subtle sweetness
• Shredded cheddar cheese forms a gooey middle layer
• Bisquick mix creates the magic self forming crust with minimal effort
• Whole milk ensures a tender and moist final texture
• Eggs bind everything together while adding richness

How To Make Southern Style Cheeseburger Pie

Prepare the beef mixture

Cook the ground beef with finely chopped onion until fully browned and the onions have softened and become translucent. Be sure to break up any large chunks of meat with a wooden spoon for even cooking. Drain the excess fat thoroughly to prevent a greasy final product.

Season the meat

Once drained, return the beef mixture to the pan and add salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup. These seasonings work together to create that classic cheeseburger flavor profile. The Worcestershire particularly adds depth while the ketchup provides subtle sweetness and tanginess.

Layer the base

Transfer your seasoned beef mixture into a 23 centimeter pie plate, pressing it gently to create an even layer that reaches the edges. This forms the foundation of your cheeseburger pie.

Add the cheese layer

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef mixture. For best results, use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre shredded as it melts more smoothly without the anti caking agents.

Create the batter topping

In a separate bowl, thoroughly whisk together milk, eggs and Bisquick mix until smooth. This batter will create a golden crust that encases all the delicious flavors below. Ensure no lumps remain for the best texture.

Assemble and bake

Pour the batter carefully over the beef and cheese layers, allowing it to settle and spread naturally. Bake in a preheated 200°C oven for 25 to 30 minutes until the top becomes beautifully golden and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.

Rest before serving

Allow your pie to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This important step helps the layers set properly for clean slices and prevents the filling from spilling out.

The Worcestershire sauce is my non negotiable ingredient in this recipe. I discovered its importance years ago when I accidentally omitted it, and my family immediately noticed something was missing. That subtle tanginess and depth is what truly makes this taste like a real cheeseburger rather than just a beef casserole.

Make It Your Own

This recipe welcomes customization just like your favorite burger. Consider adding cooked and crumbled bacon, sliced pickles, or even diced bell peppers to the beef mixture. For spice lovers, a dash of hot sauce or diced jalapeños works wonderfully. If you prefer a lighter version, ground turkey can substitute for the beef with minimal adjustments to the cooking time.

Storage And Reheating

Once cooled, cover any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. The pie will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For reheating, individual slices can be microwaved for about 1 minute until warm throughout. For best results when reheating the entire pie, cover with foil and warm in a 160°C oven for 15 to 20 minutes until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty pie pairs wonderfully with simple sides that complement without competing. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette provides refreshing balance to the rich pie. Steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli add color and nutrition. For a true diner experience, serve with a small dish of pickle spears and extra ketchup on the side for dipping.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make Southern Style Cheeseburger Pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture a day ahead and refrigerate. When ready to bake, bring to room temperature, add the cheese and batter topping, then bake as directed. The complete pie can also be baked, cooled, refrigerated, and reheated at 180°C for 15-20 minutes.

→ What can I substitute for Bisquick mix?

Make your own Bisquick substitute by combining 1 cup flour, 1.5 teaspoons baking powder, 0.5 teaspoon salt, and 1 tablespoon cold butter or shortening. Mix until crumbly, then measure out the required amount for the recipe.

→ What sides go well with Cheeseburger Pie?

Serve with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, potato wedges, or coleslaw for a complete meal. For a true burger experience, add pickles, sliced tomatoes, and a side of french fries.

→ Can I add other burger toppings to this pie?

Absolutely! Consider mixing in diced pickles, bacon bits, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the beef layer. You can also add a layer of sliced tomatoes beneath the cheese or sprinkle with sesame seeds before baking for a burger bun effect.

→ How do I know when the pie is fully cooked?

The pie is done when the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing for cleaner portions.