Cheeseburger Pie with Bisquick – The Ultimate Ground Beef Dinner

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, few recipes deliver quite like cheeseburger pie with Bisquick. With a perfect blend of seasoned ground beef, melted cheddar cheese, and a fluffy, savory crust made from Bisquick baking mix, this dish offers all the satisfaction of a traditional cheeseburger without the mess of grilling. It’s a go-to for busy weeknights, and especially popular with families because of its simplicity and crowd-pleasing flavor.

What makes this dish even more appealing is its versatility. Whether you’re trying to use up leftovers or craving something warm and hearty, cheeseburger pie covers all the bases. The recipe requires just a few staple ingredients and comes together quickly—ideal for anyone juggling work, school, or family dinner time. The result? A delicious, casserole-style meal that tastes just like your favorite burger.

A dish like this draws on classic American comfort food traditions, particularly those popularized in the 1970s when recipes like cheeseburger pie and casseroles became kitchen staples. Influenced by brands like Bisquick, which made baking faster and more accessible, this pie brings together the ease of a one-pan meal with the nostalgia of home-cooked dinners. According to the Wikipedia page on Bisquick, this baking mix was specifically created for busy cooks seeking fast, reliable results—exactly what this dish delivers.

For those seeking similar easy dinner ideas, Pinterest is filled with family dinner ideas and ground beef casseroles that echo the same weeknight efficiency. This cheeseburger pie recipe fits seamlessly among them, offering the familiar flavors of a cheeseburger in an oven-friendly format.

More than just a quick fix, this meal is ideal for picky eaters, budget-conscious households, and anyone craving nostalgia with a modern twist. With bold, customizable flavors and minimal prep, cheeseburger pie with Bisquick is a must-have in every home cook’s repertoire.

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What is Cheeseburger Pie?

A cheeseburger pie is a savory, crust-topped dish that combines the comforting flavors of a traditional cheeseburger with the ease of a baked casserole. Typically made with ground beef, onions, eggs, milk, Bisquick baking mix, and shredded cheddar cheese, it delivers the same satisfying taste as a burger in a sliceable form. This dish has stood the test of time, becoming a staple in many American households since its introduction.

The concept of cheeseburger pie traces its roots to mid-20th century America when home cooks began experimenting with one-dish meals that saved both time and effort. Recipes like this flourished during the 1970s, a period often associated with the rise of convenience cooking and branded shortcuts such as Bisquick. The Wikipedia entry on ground beef highlights how this ingredient became a foundation of affordable, family-style meals, perfectly aligning with the goals of home cooks seeking both nutrition and flavor. Similarly, the Casserole page on Wikipedia shows how these oven-baked dishes became synonymous with family gatherings and comfort food traditions.

A cheeseburger pie differs from a traditional meat pie or shepherd’s pie because it lacks a pastry crust or mashed potato topping. Instead, the Bisquick mixture creates a light, quiche-like texture that rises during baking, forming a golden, slightly crisp top. This innovative twist makes it faster and easier to prepare while maintaining that hearty, homemade quality. For inspiration on presentation, explore classic American recipes that showcase similar nostalgic dishes loved across generations.

The beauty of cheeseburger pie lies in its adaptability. You can add different cheeses, incorporate bacon, or mix in vegetables to suit your taste. Whether served with salad, fries, or roasted vegetables, it’s a complete meal that satisfies without fuss. It embodies the enduring charm of American comfort food, blending simplicity, taste, and warmth into every bite—a perfect reflection of what home cooking is meant to be.

Why Use Bisquick?

Using Bisquick in a cheeseburger pie isn’t just about convenience—it’s about creating a soft, slightly crisp, and golden topping that brings the whole dish together with minimal effort. This iconic baking mix combines flour, leavening, salt, and fat in a single product, eliminating the need to prepare a crust from scratch. With Bisquick, what would typically take extra steps and time becomes a one-bowl process that fits neatly into a busy weeknight schedule.

What sets Bisquick apart in this recipe is how it reacts with eggs and milk to form a batter that rises during baking. This mixture doesn’t just sit on top—it gently seeps into the meat and cheese layer below, binding the ingredients and giving the pie its signature quiche-meets-casserole texture. If you’ve ever baked a quiche or similar dish, you’ll notice how the consistency is light yet sturdy, making the dish easy to slice and serve.

According to Wikipedia’s entry on Bisquick, the mix was developed in the 1930s to help shorten prep time for baked goods like biscuits, pancakes, and pies. Since then, it’s become a staple in American kitchens—especially for recipes that rely on speed and consistency. Its built-in baking powder allows for a reliable rise every time, which is essential in making a top layer that’s fluffy and golden without being dense.

If you don’t have Bisquick on hand, a homemade alternative is simple to prepare: combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, a pinch of salt, and a bit of butter or shortening. However, the consistency and flavor may vary slightly, so for best results, the original mix is recommended. For those avoiding gluten, there are now gluten-free Bisquick options available, offering the same convenience and texture without the gluten content.

The use of Bisquick isn’t just a shortcut—it’s part of the nostalgic appeal that has made this dish a family favorite for decades. It’s also what allows this pie to be customized easily: swap in other ingredients, adjust the seasonings, or experiment with toppings, and the Bisquick crust still holds everything together seamlessly. For creative takes, explore Pinterest boards like ground beef casseroles, where you’ll find variations that push this dish into new flavor territories while keeping the core method intact.

In short, Bisquick brings efficiency, reliability, and a unique texture that elevates cheeseburger pie from a simple meat-and-cheese bake to a beloved, oven-ready classic.

Ingredients Breakdown & Substitutions

The beauty of cheeseburger pie with Bisquick lies in its simplicity, using everyday pantry and fridge staples to create a dish that’s both satisfying and customizable. Here’s a closer look at the core ingredients and smart substitutions to suit various dietary preferences or what you have on hand.

• Ground Beef
  The star of the dish, ground beef, provides rich, savory flavor and hearty texture. Lean (80/20) is a great balance to avoid too much grease while keeping the meat juicy. You can also substitute with:
  • Ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version
  • Plant-based meat crumbles for a vegetarian twist
    According to Wikipedia’s entry on ground beef, it’s one of the most widely used meats in home cooking due to its versatility and affordability.
• Onion
  A small chopped onion adds sweetness and depth. For quicker prep, onion powder can be used. Shallots offer a milder, slightly sweet flavor if you want a more gourmet touch.
• Cheddar Cheese
  Shredded cheddar cheese melts beautifully and adds the classic cheeseburger flavor. Mix in mozzarella for a creamier texture or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Learn more about cheese options on the Wikipedia cheddar cheese page.
• Seasonings
  Garlic powder, salt, and black pepper are the base flavorings. Add chili powder, smoked paprika, or even a dash of Worcestershire sauce for more depth.
• Eggs and Milk
  These bind the crust and give the top a light, quiche-like texture. For dairy-free versions, plant-based milks (like almond or oat) and egg substitutes (like flax eggs) can be used.
• Bisquick Baking Mix
  The key to the crust, Bisquick gives the pie its fluff and structure. Don’t have it? Make your own mix with:
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1½ tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp butter or shortening
• Optional Toppings
  Add ketchup, mustard, sliced pickles, or diced tomatoes after baking for a true burger experience. These toppings enhance the pie’s flavor and visual appeal, making it great for serving guests or picky eaters.

Pinterest boards like classic American recipes showcase fun additions like crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or jalapeños. These small tweaks can transform this simple dish into something unique every time.

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

This easy cheeseburger pie recipe comes together with minimal effort, making it ideal for weeknight dinners. Follow these steps for a flawless result:

• Preheat the Oven
  Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9-inch pie dish to prevent sticking.
• Cook the Beef and Onion
  In a skillet over medium heat, cook 1 pound of ground beef and 1 small chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion is tender. Drain off any excess grease.
• Season the Meat
  Stir in ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper. Turn off the heat.
• Layer the Filling
  Spread the beef mixture evenly in the greased pie dish. Sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese over the meat.
• Mix the Batter
  In a bowl, whisk together:
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup milk
  • ½ cup Bisquick baking mix
    Whisk until smooth and lump-free.
• Pour and Bake
  Pour the Bisquick batter evenly over the beef and cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Cool and Serve
  Let the pie cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This helps it set and makes serving easier. Top with ketchup, mustard, or pickles for that classic cheeseburger taste.

For creative presentation ideas and serving inspiration, check out family dinner ideas where casseroles like this are often featured as budget-friendly, fun meals.

Cheeseburger Pie Variations to Try

This dish is incredibly adaptable. If you want to experiment, try one of these cheeseburger pie variations:

• Bacon Cheeseburger Pie
  Add cooked crumbled bacon to the beef mixture before baking. It boosts flavor and adds texture.
• Tex-Mex Cheeseburger Pie
  Use taco seasoning instead of salt and pepper. Top with salsa and a dollop of sour cream after baking.
• Low-Carb Version
  Replace Bisquick with a mix of almond flour and eggs. Reduce the milk or use a dairy-free alternative.
• Gluten-Free Pie
  Use gluten-free Bisquick or a homemade mix using rice flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour.
• Loaded Cheeseburger Pie
  Add chopped pickles, tomatoes, jalapeños, or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.

Explore more inventive twists on dishes like this on Pinterest where thousands of home cooks share their favorite upgrades to classic meals.

Serving Suggestions

Serve cheeseburger pie with Bisquick like a true comfort meal. It pairs well with:

• Fresh Green Salad
  Balances out the richness of the pie with freshness and crunch.
• Oven Fries or Sweet Potato Fries
  Keep the burger-theme going while adding a crispy side.
• Roasted or Steamed Veggies
  Broccoli, carrots, or green beans make nutritious companions.
• Condiment Bar
  Offer ketchup, mustard, relish, and pickles on the side. It turns the meal into an interactive experience, especially fun for kids.

Add a dollop of mayo or drizzle of hot sauce if you want to elevate the flavor even more. This makes the dish feel more like a build-your-own burger, just without the bun.

How to Store and Reheat Cheeseburger Pie

This dish stores well and is perfect for leftovers or meal prep:

• Refrigeration
  Cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Freezing
  Let the pie cool completely. Wrap in foil and place in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for convenience.
• Reheating
  • Oven: Reheat at 350°F for 10–15 minutes until warmed through.
  • Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1–2 minutes. Add a splash of water or cover with a damp paper towel to avoid drying out.

To maintain the crust’s texture, oven reheating is ideal. You can also reheat individual slices in an air fryer for extra crispiness.

Make-Ahead Tips for Busy Weeknights

Save time with these prep-ahead strategies:

• Prep the Beef Mixture Early
  Cook and season the ground beef and onions ahead of time. Store in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Assemble and Refrigerate
  You can fully assemble the pie (without baking) and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready, just bake as directed.
• Freeze Before Baking
  Wrap the unbaked pie tightly and freeze. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
• Mini Cheeseburger Pies
  Use muffin tins to create individual portions. Great for lunchboxes or grab-and-go meals.

These hacks help you enjoy a home-cooked meal with less stress, perfect for families or meal preppers.

Nutritional Breakdown

Cheeseburger pie offers plenty of protein and flavor, though it can be tailored to fit different diets:

• Calories (per serving): Approx. 330–380
• Protein: ~22g
• Carbohydrates: ~10–14g
• Fat: ~25g

To make it lighter:

• Use 93% lean ground beef or ground turkey
• Replace full-fat cheese with reduced-fat versions
• Use egg whites instead of whole eggs
• Opt for unsweetened almond milk

Keep in mind, exact nutrition will vary based on ingredients used. Use a nutrition calculator to get the most accurate breakdown for your version.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these pitfalls for the best results:

• Overcooking the Pie
  Overbaking can dry out the meat and toughen the crust. Check at 25 minutes and remove when golden.
• Not Draining the Beef
  Greasy pie results from skipping this step. Always drain excess fat after browning the meat.
• Pouring Uneven Batter
  Make sure to spread the Bisquick mixture evenly over the filling so it bakes uniformly.
• Skipping the Rest Time
  Letting the pie sit for a few minutes after baking helps it firm up and slice cleanly.

Follow these tips, and you’ll enjoy a well-textured, flavorful pie every time.

FAQs

Can I make cheeseburger pie without Bisquick?
Yes, make your own with flour, baking powder, salt, and butter. It won’t be identical but works in a pinch.

Is cheeseburger pie keto-friendly?
Not by default, but you can swap Bisquick with almond flour and use heavy cream instead of milk.

Can I use other meats like turkey or sausage?
Absolutely. Ground turkey, sausage, or even veggie crumbles can replace beef. Adjust seasonings accordingly.

What cheese works best for cheeseburger pie?
Cheddar is classic, but you can use Colby, mozzarella, or pepper jack depending on your taste preference.

Can I make this in a muffin tin?
Yes! Mini cheeseburger pies are great for portion control and meal prep.

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