Bisquick Cheeseburger Pie, also known as “Impossibly Easy Cheeseburger Pie,” is a timeless classic that combines the hearty flavors of a cheeseburger with the convenience of a pie. This dish makes for a quick, filling, and family-friendly meal that brings comfort and flavor to your table. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about this dish, from its origins to step-by-step instructions, tips, variations, and serving suggestions.
The History of Bisquick Cheeseburger Pie
Bisquick Cheeseburger Pie rose to popularity as part of a marketing campaign by Betty Crocker in the 1970s. Betty Crocker showcased the versatility of Bisquick baking mix, turning it into the hero of easy-to-make meals. The “Impossibly Easy” pie recipes revolutionized home cooking, allowing busy households to create savory pies without the hassle of rolling dough. Cheeseburger Pie stood out for its simplicity, combining ground beef, cheese, and Bisquick into a comforting and crowd-pleasing meal.
What Makes Bisquick Cheeseburger Pie Special?
- Simplicity: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and comes together in just a few steps.
- Versatility: You can easily adapt it to suit dietary preferences and ingredient availability.
- Flavor: With its savory, cheesy, and beefy goodness, it delivers all the comforting flavors of a cheeseburger.
- Convenience: Bisquick eliminates the need for a separate crust, acting as both a binding agent and a base.
Ingredients for Bisquick Cheeseburger Pie
To make Bisquick Cheeseburger Pie, gather the following ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 is ideal)
- 1 small onion, diced
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For the Bisquick Mixture:
- 1 cup Bisquick baking mix
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
Optional Toppings:
- Sliced pickles
- Ketchup and mustard drizzle
- Diced tomatoes
- Chopped lettuce (added after baking)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). A properly heated oven ensures even cooking and a golden top layer.
2. Prepare the Filling
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onions.
- Cook until the beef browns and the onions soften. Break the beef into small crumbles with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
- Season the mixture with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Remove from heat and drain excess grease to prevent a soggy pie.
3. Layer the Filling
- Spread the cooked ground beef and onion mixture evenly in a greased 9-inch pie dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the beef mixture, ensuring an even layer.
4. Mix the Bisquick Batter
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the Bisquick mix, milk, and eggs until smooth.
- Pour the batter evenly over the beef and cheese layers. The mixture will sink into the filling as it bakes, creating a cohesive pie.
5. Bake
- Place the pie dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Rest and Serve
- Let the pie cool for about 5 minutes to allow it to set. This resting time makes slicing easier.
- Cut into wedges and serve with optional toppings like pickles, ketchup, mustard, or a side salad.
Tips for the Perfect Cheeseburger Pie
- Choose the Right Ground Beef: Opt for 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor and texture. Leaner beef may result in a drier filling.
- Drain Excess Fat: Removing grease after cooking the beef ensures the pie doesn’t become greasy.
- Use Fresh Cheese: Shred cheddar cheese from a block for better melting and flavor compared to pre-shredded varieties.
- Customize the Seasoning: Add paprika, chili powder, or Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture for extra depth of flavor.
- Grease the Pie Dish: Prevent sticking by lightly greasing the dish before adding the filling.
Variations of Bisquick Cheeseburger Pie
One of the best things about this dish is its adaptability. Try these creative variations to suit your taste:
1. Bacon Cheeseburger Pie
- Add crumbled cooked bacon to the beef mixture before layering the cheese.
- Garnish with crispy bacon bits for added crunch.
2. Tex-Mex Cheeseburger Pie
- Season the beef with taco seasoning.
- Use Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese instead of cheddar.
- Top with sour cream, salsa, and avocado slices.
3. Vegetarian Cheeseburger Pie
- Replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils.
- Add sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers for additional flavor.
4. Gluten-Free Option
- Use a gluten-free baking mix in place of Bisquick.
- Ensure all other ingredients, like cheese and seasonings, are gluten-free.
5. Cheeseburger Breakfast Pie
- Incorporate scrambled eggs into the beef mixture.
- Use breakfast sausage instead of ground beef for a morning-friendly twist.
Serving Suggestions
Cheeseburger Pie pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes to create a complete meal. Consider these options:
- Fresh Salad: A crisp lettuce, cucumber, and tomato salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the pie.
- French Fries: Classic fries or sweet potato fries enhance the burger theme.
- Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw adds crunch and a refreshing contrast.
- Pickles: Serve dill or bread-and-butter pickles on the side for a tangy bite.
Storing and Reheating
Refrigerating
Store leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the pie to cool completely before refrigerating to maintain its texture.
Freezing
For longer storage, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
- In the oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for 10-15 minutes.
- In the microwave: Heat individual slices for 1-2 minutes on medium power.
Why Bisquick Cheeseburger Pie Remains a Favorite
The enduring appeal of Bisquick Cheeseburger Pie lies in its versatility, ease of preparation, and ability to bring people together. Whether you’re feeding a busy family, hosting a casual dinner, or seeking a comforting meal for yourself, this dish delivers on all fronts. It captures the essence of a cheeseburger in a way that’s approachable and endlessly customizable.
Nutritional Benefits of Bisquick Cheeseburger Pie
Bisquick Cheeseburger Pie doesn’t just satisfy taste buds; it also provides essential nutrients for a balanced meal. The ground beef offers protein and iron, critical for muscle development and oxygen transport in the blood. Cheddar cheese contributes calcium for bone health, while eggs provide vitamins and minerals like vitamin D and choline. By incorporating vegetables like onions, tomatoes, or bell peppers, you can further enhance the dish’s nutritional value. Opting for leaner beef or plant-based alternatives can make the pie lighter without compromising flavor.
Perfect for Meal Prepping
If you’re looking to simplify your weekly meals, Bisquick Cheeseburger Pie fits seamlessly into a meal-prepping routine. The pie reheats beautifully and retains its texture and flavor even after a few days in the fridge. Preparing it in advance allows you to portion it into individual servings for quick lunches or dinners. Pair it with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. The dish’s versatility means you can vary the toppings and sides to keep it exciting throughout the week.
Kid-Friendly Appeal
Children love the familiar cheeseburger flavors packed into Bisquick Cheeseburger Pie. The dish’s soft texture and cheesy topping make it especially appealing to picky eaters. You can engage kids in the cooking process by letting them sprinkle the cheese or mix the batter, turning it into a fun family activity. To sneak in extra nutrition, puree vegetables like carrots or zucchini into the beef mixture. This way, kids enjoy a flavorful meal while benefiting from added nutrients.
Entertaining Made Easy
When hosting casual gatherings, Bisquick Cheeseburger Pie shines as a stress-free main dish. Its hearty and comforting nature makes it a crowd-pleaser, and you can easily double the recipe to serve more guests. Prepare the pie ahead of time, so you can focus on entertaining while the oven does the work. Pair it with a variety of condiments like ketchup, mustard, or hot sauce, allowing guests to customize their slices. The approachable flavors ensure it appeals to diverse palates.
Making Bisquick Cheeseburger Pie Healthier
For those aiming to make the dish healthier, several simple substitutions work wonders. Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option. Swap out traditional cheese for reduced-fat or plant-based varieties to lower saturated fat content. Replace regular milk with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version. By incorporating whole-grain or gluten-free Bisquick, you can boost fiber or accommodate dietary restrictions. These tweaks maintain the dish’s comforting essence while aligning it with your health goals.
Celebrating Tradition While Innovating
Bisquick Cheeseburger Pie holds a special place in culinary tradition, evoking nostalgia for many. While the original recipe remains a classic, its adaptability invites creativity in the kitchen. Experimenting with international flavors—like adding taco spices for a Mexican twist or soy sauce and ginger for an Asian-inspired version—can breathe new life into the dish. By respecting its roots while exploring modern updates, you keep the essence of Bisquick Cheeseburger Pie alive for future generations to enjoy.
Budget-Friendly and Accessible Ingredients
Bisquick Cheeseburger Pie proves that you don’t need expensive ingredients to create a delicious and satisfying meal. With pantry staples like Bisquick, ground beef, eggs, and cheese, you can whip up this dish without breaking the bank. The recipe also allows for substitutions, such as using frozen or leftover vegetables, making it an excellent choice for households aiming to reduce food waste. For those on a tight budget, swapping ground beef for more affordable options like ground turkey or plant-based proteins keeps the dish cost-effective.
A Great Way to Use Leftovers
This recipe doubles as a fantastic way to repurpose leftovers. Got extra cooked ground beef from tacos or spaghetti night? It fits perfectly into the filling. Leftover roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, broccoli, or peppers, add flavor and nutrition without extra prep. Even scraps of cheese from the fridge can enhance the dish. By using what you already have, Bisquick Cheeseburger Pie becomes a sustainable, waste-free option that maximizes your ingredients.
The Appeal of a One-Pan Meal
The simplicity of a one-pan meal makes Bisquick Cheeseburger Pie a winner for busy households. By combining the filling, crust, and cheese into a single dish, cleanup becomes a breeze. Whether you’re preparing dinner after a long day or feeding a hungry crowd, the minimal cookware required reduces kitchen stress. This ease extends to serving as well—cut the pie into slices, and you have an all-in-one meal that’s ready to enjoy with minimal fuss.
Perfect for Every Season
Bisquick Cheeseburger Pie adapts beautifully to every season. During colder months, the dish serves as a hearty comfort food, perfect alongside roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes. In warmer weather, lighten it up with fresh salads or tangy slaws for a balanced summer meal. The pie’s versatility also makes it a hit year-round, whether for weeknight dinners, weekend potlucks, or casual family gatherings. Regardless of the time of year, this dish delivers a satisfying experience every time.
Conclusion
Bisquick Cheeseburger Pie offers more than just a meal; it delivers a nostalgic experience wrapped in simplicity and flavor. Its ability to adapt to different preferences and occasions makes it a recipe worth mastering. Whether you stick to the classic preparation or explore new variations, this dish promises to become a staple in your recipe collection. Give it a try, and savor the delightful combination of cheeseburger flavors in pie form!