This hearty meal combines the classic flavors of a cheeseburger into a simple, crustless pie. It is an efficient weeknight dinner that appeals to both children and adults using basic pantry staples.
List of ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef – use lean to minimize excess grease in the final dish.
- 1/2 cup chopped white onion – adds a mild aromatic base.
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic – provides savory depth to the meat.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – adds a subtle touch of heat.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – creates a salty and creamy layer.
- 1/2 cup Bisquick mix – serves as the binding agent to create the crust.
- 1 cup 2% milk – ensures a smooth batter consistency.
- 3 large eggs – helps the pie set firmly during the baking process.
step-by-step instructions
- Prepare Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 400º Fahrenheit. Grease a 9-inch round deep dish pie plate or a cake pan with cooking spray to ensure the pie releases easily.
- Brown the Meat: Using a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onions together until the beef is no longer pink and onions are translucent. Drain off any excess fat thoroughly. Stir in the minced garlic, salt, and pepper, mixing well.
- Layer the Base: Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared pie plate. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese uniformly over the top of the meat.
- Prepare the Batter: In a small bowl, stir together the Bisquick mix, milk, and eggs until the mixture is smooth. Pour the batter evenly over the layer of beef and cheese.
- Bake and Serve: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the center is set and the top is golden brown. Use a knife to check that the center comes out clean before serving immediately.
Customizing Your Pie Flavors
Creating a Mexican-Inspired Taco Pie
Replace the salt and pepper with 3 tablespoons of taco seasoning when browning the beef. Once baked, top the slices with dollops of sour cream and fresh salsa. Add sliced jalapeños for extra heat.
Transforming into an Italian-Style Pie
Add 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning to the beef mixture during the sauté process. Swap the cheddar cheese for shredded mozzarella to mimic a pizza flavor. Serve the finished pie with a side of warm marinara sauce.
Preparing a Buffalo Chicken Variation
Substitute the ground beef with ground chicken. Mix in 1/2 packet of ranch seasoning and 1/4 cup of buffalo sauce into the meat. Keep the Bisquick batter and baking instructions the same.
Enhancing with a Triple Cheese Blend
Combine cheddar with Monterey Jack and Swiss cheese for a more complex flavor. Distribute the cheese blend between the beef layer and the very top of the batter. This creates a gooey, rich texture throughout the pie.
Adding Classic Burger Toppings
Treat the pie like a real burger by adding fresh toppings after baking. Layer on diced dill pickles, a drizzle of ketchup and mustard, and shredded lettuce. Sliced fresh tomatoes also add a bright contrast to the rich beef.
Essential Cooking Techniques
Achieving a Perfect Brown on Beef
Use a heavy skillet over medium heat to ensure the beef sears rather than steams. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain a consistent temperature. Browning the meat thoroughly develops the Maillard reaction for better taste.
Selecting the Optimal Baking Vessel
A 9-inch deep dish pie plate is ideal for achieving the correct thickness. If unavailable, a 9-inch cake pan works as an excellent substitute. Ensure the sides are well-greased to prevent the batter from sticking.
Ensuring Batter Consistency
Whisk the milk and eggs thoroughly before adding the Bisquick mix. Stir only until the lumps are gone to avoid overworking the gluten. This keeps the resulting crust light and tender rather than dense.
Verifying the Internal Set
The knife test is the most reliable way to check for doneness. Insert a thin blade into the center of the pie; it should come out clean without any liquid egg. The top should be a consistent golden brown.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swapping Beef for Ground Turkey
Lean ground turkey is a great alternative for those seeking a lighter meat option. Because turkey is milder, consider adding an extra pinch of salt or garlic powder. Follow the same browning and layering steps.
Implementing Gluten-Free Alternatives
Use a gluten-free Bisquick substitute to make this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets. Maintain the exact measurements of milk and eggs to ensure the structure remains stable. Bake for the same duration at 400º Fahrenheit.
Mixing Your Own Biscuit Base
If you do not have a pre-made mix, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Use a standard biscuit ratio to replace the 1/2 cup of Bisquick. This allows you to control the sodium content of the dish.
Choosing Alternative Cheeses
Pepper Jack cheese provides a spicy kick that complements the beef. Muenster or Provolone can be used for a milder, stretchier melt. For a sharper taste, use an extra-sharp aged cheddar.
Suggested Side Dishes
Pairing with Fresh Caesar Salads
The acidity of a lemon-based Caesar dressing cuts through the richness of the cheese and beef. Use crisp romaine lettuce and a sprinkle of parmesan. This provides a refreshing balance to the heavy pie.
Integrating Roasted Root Vegetables
Carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts roast well at 400º Fahrenheit. You can bake them on a separate sheet pan while the pie is in the oven. Toss them in olive oil and thyme for a savory side.
Preparing Air Fryer Potato Wedges
Cut russet potatoes into thick wedges and toss with paprika and garlic powder. Air fry them until golden and crisp. These provide a satisfying crunch that mirrors traditional burger fries.
Serving a Refreshing Fruit Medley
Combine sliced strawberries, blueberries, and honeydew melon in a bowl. Add sugared pecans or a drizzle of honey for extra texture. A sweet side dish cleanses the palate between savory bites.
Proper Storage and Reheating
Safe Refrigeration Methods
Allow the pie to cool slightly before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the main part of the refrigerator, not the door. It will remain fresh and safe to eat for up to 4 days.
Reheating in the Oven
Place a slice on a baking sheet and heat at 350º Fahrenheit. Cover the slice loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from drying out. Heat until the center is warmed through.
Microwaving for Quick Service
Use short 30-second intervals on high power to avoid rubberizing the eggs. Cover the slice with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Let it sit for one minute before eating to distribute the heat.
Make-Ahead Strategies
Pre-Cooking the Meat Mixture
Brown the beef and onions a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Reheat the meat slightly in a pan before adding it to the pie plate. This reduces the total prep time on dinner night.
Preparing the Cheese and Pan
Shred your own cheese from a block for better melting properties. Grease your baking pan ahead of time and keep it covered. These small steps streamline the final assembly process.
Organizing Dry Ingredients
Measure the Bisquick mix into a small container or bag. Keep it in the pantry so it is ready to be whisked with the wet ingredients. This minimizes the amount of measuring tools needed during the process.
Troubleshooting the Bake
Correcting a Runny Center
If the center is still jiggly after 30 minutes, bake in 5-minute increments. Ensure your oven is fully preheated and that the rack is in the center position. Avoid opening the door too frequently.
Preventing a Burnt Surface
If the cheese browns too quickly, cover the top with aluminum foil. This protects the surface while allowing the center to finish cooking. Check the pie every few minutes once covered.
Reducing Excess Greasiness
Drain the cooked beef using a fine-mesh colander for maximum efficiency. You can also pat the meat with paper towels before spreading it in the pan. This prevents oil from pooling in the crust.
Fixing a Dense Crust
Ensure your eggs and milk are at room temperature before mixing. Whisk the batter vigorously to incorporate air before pouring it over the beef. This results in a fluffier, more bread-like texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pan size?
A 9-inch round pan is recommended for the best thickness. If you use a larger pan, the pie will be thinner and will require a shorter baking time. Adjust the oven time by checking the center every 20 minutes.
Is a traditional pie crust necessary?
No, this is an impossible pie, meaning the crust forms itself during the baking process. The combination of Bisquick, eggs, and milk creates the base. Adding a separate crust is optional but usually unnecessary.
Can this dish be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the pie in individual slices. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven for the best results.
Print
Old Fashioned Impossible Cheeseburger Pie
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: General
Description
Looking for a new way to cook ground beef? Try this comforting Impossible Cheeseburger Pie. It’s an easy dinner ready for the table in about 45 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup chopped white onion
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup Bisquick mix
- 1 cup 2% milk
- 3 large eggs
Instructions
- Preheat: Preheat the oven to 400º Fahrenheit. Spray a 9″ round deep dish pie plate (or cake pan) with cooking spray.
- Brown: Using a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef and the onions together until the beef is no longer pink and the onions are translucent. Drain off any fat. Then add in the minced garlic, salt and pepper. Mix well.
- Layer: Spread the beef mixture in the bottom of the prepared pie plate. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top.
- Mix: In a small bowl, stir together the Bisquick mix, milk and eggs. Pour evenly over the beef and cheese.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the middle of the pie is set and the top is golden brown. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean. Serve immediately.
Notes
Use gluten free Bisquick in order to make this gluten free. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 253 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 431 mg
- Fat: 13 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0.3 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 0.4 g
- Protein: 26 g
- Cholesterol: 139 mg