This Impossible Cheeseburger Pie is a savory, easy-to-make dish that combines all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in one bite! The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a meal that’s cheesy, hearty, and guaranteed to satisfy. It’s perfect for busy nights or when you’re craving something comforting.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. lean ground beef: Ground beef is the star here, but you can use turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For extra flavor, try using 80/20 ground beef.
- 1 large onion, chopped: The onion will cook with the beef, giving it a great savory flavor. You can also use a sweet onion or yellow onion for a milder taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt: This adds extra flavor without needing to add multiple spices.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Garlic powder brings out a warm, savory flavor.
- A dash of Worcestershire sauce: This adds a hint of umami and helps to enhance the beef’s flavor.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: I used a combination of 3/4 cheddar and 1/4 mozzarella to give it a gooey melt with a sharper flavor. You can also use just cheddar or add in a bit of Swiss for a unique twist.
- 1 cup milk: Whole milk works best for a rich, creamy texture, but you can use 2% or skim if that’s what you have on hand.
- 1/2 cup Original Bisquick mix: This creates the « impossible » part of the recipe! It forms a delicious, almost pancake-like crust as it bakes.
- 2 large eggs: Eggs help bind everything together and contribute to the pie’s custardy texture.
Directions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is the perfect temperature to get the pie golden and bubbly.
- Spray a 9-inch pie plate with non-stick cooking spray to ensure your pie doesn’t stick to the sides during baking.
2. Cook the Ground Beef and Onion:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Add the chopped onion to the beef and cook for about 10 minutes until the beef is browned and the onions are soft.
- Drain any excess fat from the beef. You don’t want the pie to be greasy, so be sure to remove any excess oil.
3. Season the Beef:
- Add the seasoned salt, garlic powder, and a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture. Stir well to combine and enhance the flavor.
- Spread the beef mixture evenly in the prepared pie plate, creating the first layer of the pie.
4. Add the Shredded Cheese:
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese (and mozzarella if you used that blend) evenly over the beef mixture. This cheese will melt beautifully, creating a cheesy layer that’s the heart of the pie.
5. Prepare the Bisquick Mixture:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and Bisquick mix.
- Make sure to whisk until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. This will form the “crust” of the pie as it bakes.
- Pour this liquid mixture evenly over the beef and cheese layers. The Bisquick will naturally form a crust as the pie bakes.
6. Bake the Pie:
- Place the pie in the oven and bake for 25 minutes at 400°F.
- The top should be lightly golden, and a knife inserted in the center should come out clean when it’s done.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
- Let the pie sit for a few minutes before slicing, to allow it to set.
- Slice into 4-5 servings and serve hot. You can enjoy it as-is or add a dollop of sour cream, a side of pickles, or even a drizzle of ketchup for extra cheeseburger flavor!
Tips for the Perfect Cheeseburger Pie:
- Meat Options: If you want to reduce the fat, try lean ground turkey or ground chicken. For a richer flavor, you could use 80/20 ground beef or even ground sausage.
- Cheese Variations: You can use just cheddar for a sharp flavor, or mix it up with Monterey Jack, Colby, or even Pepper Jack for a spicier kick.
- Make it spicy: If you like things with a bit more heat, consider adding jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.
- Add Veggies: Try mixing in some diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Double the Recipe: If you have a larger crowd, this recipe can easily be doubled and baked in a larger dish. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly.
Q&A Section:
Q: Can I use a different type of crust instead of Bisquick?
A: The Bisquick gives the pie its signature « impossible » crust, but you can swap it for a homemade pie crust if you prefer a traditional crust. If you’re using a store-bought crust, you may need to adjust the baking time to ensure the crust cooks properly.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the pie ahead of time, cover it with plastic wrap, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven and bake as directed. No need to let it come to room temperature before baking.
Q: Can I freeze this Cheeseburger Pie?
A: Absolutely! After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then bake at 350°F for about 15 minutes to reheat.
Q: What should I serve with the Impossible Cheeseburger Pie?
A: This pie is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad, crispy fries, or steamed veggies to balance out the richness. It also pairs well with a side of pickles or coleslaw for added crunch.
Final Thoughts:
This Impossible Cheeseburger Pie is a fun and simple twist on a classic cheeseburger. It’s easy to make, family-friendly, and filling. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting, need a quick dinner idea, or want a dish to take to a potluck, this recipe will surely hit the spot. Enjoy!