Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie

Introduction

If you love the flavors of a juicy cheeseburger but want the cozy feel of a home-baked casserole, this Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie is the perfect recipe. It’s a hearty, budget-friendly dish that combines ground beef, onion, cheese, and a simple batter that bakes up golden and delicious. Best of all, it’s quick to prepare and can feed the whole family with ease. This recipe captures everything you love about cheeseburgers but in a sliceable, oven-baked form that makes weeknight dinners stress-free.

My recipe story

I first came across this recipe while flipping through The Pioneer Woman’s cookbook, and it instantly reminded me of the kind of dishes my grandmother used to make. Warm, cheesy, and filling, it’s the kind of food that makes you feel right at home. The first time I baked it, my family polished off the entire pie in one sitting—it was that good. Since then, I’ve made little tweaks here and there, adjusting the seasonings and adding extra cheese for that irresistible gooey factor. Now, it has become a staple in our dinner rotation, especially on nights when I want something comforting yet fuss-free.

Ingredient breakdown

The beauty of Pioneer Woman’s Cheeseburger Pie lies in its simplicity. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, yet when combined, they create a dish that feels indulgent and deeply comforting. Let’s break down what you’ll need and why each component plays a crucial role.

Ground beef is, of course, the star of this dish. It gives the pie its hearty, savory flavor and classic cheeseburger feel. Pairing it with onions not only adds depth but also a touch of sweetness that balances the richness of the beef. Cheese, usually cheddar, melts into the meat mixture and forms a gooey layer that ties everything together. The batter—a mix of milk, eggs, and a bit of baking mix—creates a light, fluffy crust that holds the pie together while adding a comforting, almost biscuit-like texture. Together, these ingredients mimic all the best parts of a cheeseburger in a new, cozy format.

One of the best parts about this recipe is its adaptability. You can swap in different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a twist, or use ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option. Even the seasonings can be adjusted to your family’s taste, whether you want more spice or a hint of smokiness.

Equipment you’ll need

• Large skillet for browning the beef and onions
• Mixing bowls for preparing the batter
• Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9-inch pie dish or baking dish
• Oven mitts and cooling rack

Step-by-step directions

Step 1: Preheat and prepare. Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease your pie dish with nonstick spray or butter to ensure the pie releases cleanly after baking. Taking this step early allows the oven to fully heat and ensures even cooking.

Step 2: Cook the beef and onion. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onion until it turns soft and translucent. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease to prevent the pie from becoming soggy.

Step 3: Layer the filling. Spread the beef and onion mixture evenly across the bottom of your greased pie dish. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese over the meat, making sure it’s evenly distributed so every bite has that classic cheeseburger flavor.

Step 4: Make the batter. In a mixing bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and baking mix until smooth. The batter should have a pourable consistency, similar to pancake batter. This mixture will form the fluffy crust as it bakes.

Step 5: Pour and bake. Carefully pour the batter over the beef and cheese layer, spreading it gently with a spoon if needed. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and serve. Allow the pie to cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. This resting time helps the layers set, making it easier to serve neat slices. Garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of ketchup for a true cheeseburger-inspired finish.

Variations & substitutions

If you’d like to put your own spin on this classic recipe, there are plenty of ways to adapt it. Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for different flavor profiles. Try using pepper jack or mozzarella instead of cheddar for a unique cheese twist. Add diced pickles, jalapeños, or even crumbled bacon into the beef mixture for extra layers of flavor. For a lower-carb option, use almond flour-based baking mix in place of the standard biscuit mix. These little changes allow you to tailor the recipe to your tastes and dietary needs while keeping the essence of cheeseburger pie intact.

Storage, freezing & make-ahead

Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Simply store slices in airtight containers and reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. This pie also freezes beautifully—wrap cooled slices individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven for the best texture. To make ahead, you can cook the beef and onion mixture a day early, then assemble and bake the next evening for a time-saving shortcut.

Serving ideas & pairings

Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie is satisfying on its own, but pairing it with the right sides takes it to the next level. Serve it with a crisp green salad for balance, roasted vegetables for extra heartiness, or classic French fries to keep the cheeseburger theme alive. It also pairs wonderfully with coleslaw, baked beans, or even a simple tomato soup for a comforting diner-inspired meal. For a fun presentation, garnish with sliced pickles, a drizzle of ketchup, or a dollop of mustard on the side.

FAQ

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey makes a leaner option and works beautifully in this recipe. Just be sure to season it well since turkey has a milder flavor.

What type of cheese works best?
Cheddar is the classic choice, but mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack can be used for variety.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely—use a gluten-free baking mix, and the recipe will turn out just as delicious.

Can I prepare this pie ahead of time?
You can cook the beef and onion mixture a day before, then assemble and bake when ready to serve.

How do I know when the pie is done?
The top should be golden brown, and a knife inserted in the center should come out clean, indicating the batter is fully set.

Final thoughts

This Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie is the definition of comfort food—simple, hearty, and crowd-pleasing. It brings all the flavors of a cheeseburger into a warm, sliceable dish that’s perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or family gatherings. With its versatility, affordability, and ease, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to time and time again. Whether you stick to the original or add your own creative spin, this cheeseburger pie is sure to become a family favorite in your home too.

Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie

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• Author: Sarah White
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings

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Description

A cozy, family-friendly dinner that combines the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the ease of a baked pie. Simple, hearty, and delicious.

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Ingredients

• 1 large onion, chopped (1 cup)

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup Original Bisquick mix
• 1 cup milk

• 2 large eggs

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish.
2. In a skillet, cook the chopped onion until softened, then add the ground beef and salt. Cook until browned, then drain excess fat.

3. Spread the beef and onion mixture evenly in the prepared pie dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.

4. In a bowl, whisk together Bisquick mix, milk, and eggs until smooth. Pour the batter evenly over the meat and cheese layer.
5. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown on top and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.

6. Let cool for 5 minutes before slicing and serving warm.
   

Notes

 Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For a fun twist, garnish with pickles, ketchup, or mustard before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American