Introduction
This delightful twist on a classic family favorite combines the comforting flavors of a cheeseburger with the ease of a pie. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Ground beef: 450 grams
Onion, chopped: 100 grams
Salt: 5 grams
Black pepper: 3 grams
Cheddar cheese, shredded: 150 grams
Whole milk: 240 ml
Large eggs: 2
All-purpose flour: 90 grams
Baking powder: 5 grams
Butter, melted: 55 grams
Mustard (optional): 10 ml
Ketchup (optional): 20 ml
Pickles, chopped (optional): 50 grams
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (392°F). This will ensure that your pie bakes evenly and achieves that perfect golden color.
Step 2: Cook the Beef and Onions
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add 450 grams of ground beef and 100 grams of chopped onion. Cook for about 8-10 minutes until the beef is browned and the onion turns translucent. Season this mixture with 5 grams of salt and 3 grams of black pepper. Once cooked, drain any excess fat to keep the pie from becoming greasy.
Step 3: Prepare the Pie Dish
Evenly spread the flavorful beef and onion mixture into a greased pie dish. This will be the hearty base of your cheeseburger pie.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle 150 grams of shredded cheddar cheese generously over the beef mixture. The cheese will melt during baking, creating a delicious layer of gooey goodness.
Step 5: Mix the Milk Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together 240 ml of whole milk, 2 large eggs, 90 grams of all-purpose flour, 5 grams of baking powder, and 55 grams of melted butter. Whisk until smooth and free of lumps, ensuring that you have a richly textured batter.
Step 6: Combine the Layers
Pour the milk mixture over the beef and cheese in the pie dish. If necessary, gently tilt the dish to allow for even distribution, ensuring that every bite is perfectly balanced with flavors.
Step 7: Bake the Pie
Place the pie dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it bakes; it’s done when a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. For an added touch, top with mustard, ketchup, and chopped pickles before slicing and serving. The aroma will be irresistible!
Notes
Cooking Beef
Ensure that you drain the excess fat from the cooked beef mixture to maintain the desired texture of the pie, as too much grease can make it heavy.
Cheese Variations
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for a varied flavor experience.
Optional Toppings
Adding mustard, ketchup, and pickles enhances the classic cheeseburger flavor, but you can customize the toppings based on personal preference.
Time Management
For a more efficient process, chop your onions while the beef is cooking, saving you a bit of time.
Leftovers
If you have leftovers, they can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated in the microwave for a quick meal option later on.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing involves cooking food quickly in a small amount of oil or fat over medium to high heat. In this recipe, ground beef and onions are sautéed until browned and translucent, enhancing their flavors and textures.
Mixing
Mixing is the process of combining ingredients to create a uniform mixture. For the batter, milk, eggs, flour, baking powder, and melted butter are whisked together until smooth, ensuring even consistency.
Baking
Baking is a cooking method that uses dry heat in an oven. In this dish, the assembled pie is baked at a high temperature, allowing the ingredients to meld and cook together, resulting in a fluffy and hearty pie.
Layering
Layering involves placing different ingredients in a specific order for optimal flavor and presentation. This recipe layers the ground beef mixture with cheddar cheese before pouring the batter over the top.
Resting
Resting refers to allowing food to sit after cooking. This recipe advises letting the pie cool for a few minutes before serving, which helps set the filling and makes it easier to slice.
FAQ
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef. It may alter the flavor slightly, but it will still work well in the recipe.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover cheeseburger pie should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and can be enjoyed within 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze the pie?
Yes, this pie can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Is it possible to add vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the beef mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute cheddar with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend depending on your preference.
Conclusion
This Not-So-Impossible Cheeseburger Pie is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a convenient and hearty pie form. It’s an ideal dish for busy weeknights and guaranteed to please the entire family. With its savory meat filling, creamy cheese, and fluffy texture, it’s both comforting and satisfying, making it a perfect option for any dinner table.
Cheeseburger Casserole
Combine the ingredients of your cheeseburger pie with cooked pasta, and layer everything in a baking dish for a delicious cheesy casserole twist.
BBQ Chicken Pie
Swap ground beef for shredded cooked chicken and mix in BBQ sauce, corn, and diced onions for a smoky, sweet alternative.
Vegetable Quiche
For a meat-free option, use a mix of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach, along with cheese and a custard base for a satisfying quiche.
Buffalo Chicken Cheeseburger Pie
Incorporate shredded buffalo chicken and blue cheese into the pie for a spicy rendition that adds a kick to the traditional recipe.
Meat and Potato Pie
Add diced cooked potatoes to the beef mixture for a heartier version that will fill even the hungriest diners.
Mexican Taco Pie
Mix taco seasoning into the ground beef, top with salsa and jalapeños, and use Mexican blend cheese to create a fun, flavorful twist on the original recipe.
