Introduction
Discover a delightful twist on the classic cheeseburger with Pioneer Woman’s Classic Cheeseburger Pie. This comforting dish features a savory blend of ground beef, melted cheddar cheese, and fresh toppings, all enveloped in a flaky crust. Perfect for family meals, this easy-to-make pie is sure to satisfy cravings any time of the year.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Ground beef: 450 grams
Large onion, chopped: approximately 150 grams
Garlic cloves, minced: about 6 grams
Salt: 5 grams
Black pepper: 2 grams
Tomato paste: 15 grams
Shredded cheddar cheese: 150 grams
Milk: 75 ml
All-purpose flour: 100 grams
Large eggs: approximately 100 grams
Cherry tomatoes, halved: 150 grams
Prepared pie crust: 120 grams
Butter for greasing: 25 grams
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Take a pie pan and generously grease it with butter to ensure an easy release after baking.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
In a skillet set over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until it becomes beautifully browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Be sure to drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook until the onions turn translucent, which will take around 3 minutes. Sprinkle in salt, pepper, and the tomato paste, stirring to combine all the flavors. Let it cook for an additional 2 minutes to meld everything together.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Carefully transfer the savory beef mixture into the pre-greased pie crust, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
Step 5: Add Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the beef mixture, allowing it to melt into the layers as it bakes.
Step 6: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, flour, and eggs until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Pour this creamy mixture over the beef and cheese in the pie crust, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
Step 7: Top with Tomatoes
Arrange the halved cherry tomatoes on top of the pie. Their vibrant color will add a fresh touch and enhance the presentation.
Step 8: Bake the Pie
Place the assembled pie in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and the pie is set in the middle. The aroma wafting from the oven will be irresistible.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow the pie to cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. This resting time will help it set further, making for cleaner slices when serving.
Notes
Tip for Crust
Using a high-quality store-bought pie crust can save time, but if you prefer homemade, ensure it’s chilled for the best texture.
Substitutions
Feel free to swap in ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this dish. You can also experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella or pepper jack for an extra kick.
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for optimal texture rather than the microwave.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing involves cooking food quickly in a small amount of oil or fat over medium-high heat. In this recipe, the ground beef, onion, and garlic are sautéed to develop flavors before being transferred to the pie crust.
Mixing
Mixing combines ingredients to create a uniform mixture. Whisking together the milk, flour, and eggs ensures a smooth consistency that will help bind the pizza filling together.
Baking
Baking involves cooking food by surrounding it with dry heat in an oven. The Cheeseburger Pie is baked until the top is golden brown and the filling is set, ensuring that it is cooked through.
Layering
Layering is placing ingredients in a specific order to enhance flavor and presentation. The ground beef mixture is layered with cheese and then topped with the egg mixture for a delicious combination.
Greasing
Greasing a pan with butter or oil prevents food from sticking. In this recipe, butter is used to grease the pie pan for easy removal of the finished Cheeseburger Pie.
FAQ
Can I use different meats in this recipe besides ground beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even vegetarian meat alternatives if you prefer.
What type of pie crust is best for Cheeseburger Pie?
You can use store-bought or homemade pie crust. A flaky pie crust is recommended for the best texture.
Can I add other toppings to the pie?
Absolutely! Feel free to add toppings like pickles, olives, or additional vegetables that complement flavors.
How should I store leftover Cheeseburger Pie?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pie filling in advance and assemble it in the crust just before baking. It can also be fully baked and then reheated later.
Conclusion
This Cheeseburger Pie by Pioneer Woman successfully combines the beloved flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a convenient, one-dish meal. Its blend of seasoned ground beef, creamy cheddar cheese, and fresh cherry tomatoes encased in a flaky crust makes it a delightful option for family dinners. With simplicity and comfort at its core, this pie is sure to become a favorite in your household, providing a satisfying meal that celebrates the spirit of home cooking.
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