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This burger pie takes everything you enjoy about hamburgers and turns it into a cozy, quick dinner that works great for those busy evenings. The puffy, golden crust sits on top of tasty ground beef and gooey cheese that'll make everyone want another helping.
I first threw this burger pie together during a crazy week when I needed something fast but filling. My family wasn't sure about a "hamburger without a bun" at first, but now they ask for it twice a month at least, especially when we're watching sports.
What You'll Need
- Ground beef: Makes up the meaty foundation - go for 80/20 fat content for better taste
- Onion: Gives that important flavor base - dice it small if you've got picky kids
- Cheddar cheese: Delivers that real burger feeling - try sharp kinds for extra punch
- Bisquick mix: Creates the soft, fluffy top layer
- Whole milk: Adds richness and moisture to the topping
- Eggs: Help everything stick together and make the topping rise nicely
- Salt, pepper, and garlic powder: These basic seasonings bring out the beef's flavor
How To Make It
- Get The Oven Hot:
- First, turn your oven to 400°F. This hot temp makes sure the top gets nice and brown while cooking everything through. While you wait, grease a 9-inch pie dish really well, including up the sides so nothing sticks.
- Cook The Meat:
- Warm up a big skillet over medium heat. Toss in your chopped onions and let them cook until they start to soften, around 3 minutes. They'll finish cooking in the oven. Add your ground beef, breaking it up as it browns. Keep cooking until you don't see any pink, about 5-7 minutes. Don't skip draining the fat - tip the pan and scoop out the extra grease with a spoon.
- Add Flavors:
- Shake salt, pepper, and garlic powder all over the meat mixture. Start with what's called for, then taste and add more if needed. Go a bit heavy on the spices since they'll mellow out with everything else.
- Build Your Pie:
- Dump the seasoned beef into your greased pie dish, spreading it out flat. Make sure it's even so every bite tastes the same. Next, scatter your shredded cheddar all over the meat. Go right up to the edges for maximum cheese in every slice.
- Mix The Topping:
- In a bowl, stir together the Bisquick, milk, and eggs. Whisk it really well until it's smooth without any lumps. It should look like pancake batter. Now pour this mixture carefully over your beef and cheese, letting it settle down into the layers.
- Cook It Through:
- Put the pie on the middle rack of your hot oven. Let it bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, until the top puffs up and turns golden brown. The middle should feel firm when you touch it lightly. Stick a knife in the center to check it comes out clean.
- Let It Set:
- After you take it out, let the pie sit for at least 5 minutes. This waiting part matters - it helps everything firm up so you can cut nice slices. Use this time to get your side dishes ready.
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The real trick to this dish is how you flavor the meat. I found that adding just a splash of Worcestershire sauce brings an amazing richness that reminds you of burgers hot off the grill. My kid once told me this was better than regular cheeseburgers because you get all the flavor without the mess!
Customize It
This burger pie can be changed up just like your favorite fast food order. Before it goes in the oven, try adding some chopped pickles, crumbled bacon, or cooked mushrooms over the meat. If you like heat, mix in some chopped jalapeños or a few drops of hot sauce. The basic recipe works great as a starting point for creating your own special version.
Keeping Leftovers
One great thing about this dish is how well it keeps. Once it's totally cool, wrap any extra slices in plastic or put them in containers with tight lids. It'll stay good in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you want to eat it again, microwave individual pieces for about a minute each, or warm the whole thing in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes to get that crispy top back.
What To Serve With It
While this pie tastes great by itself, it gets even better with the right sides. A basic green salad with vinaigrette dressing gives a nice fresh contrast to the rich pie. For a true burger experience, serve with some pickle spears, a small cup of ketchup, and maybe even some french fries. In summer, fresh sliced tomatoes go perfectly alongside it.
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Recipe FAQs
- → Could I swap Bisquick for a homemade mixture?
Definitely! Combine ½ cup of flour, ½ tsp of baking powder, and ¼ tsp of salt to create a quick homemade alternative.
- → What goes great with this dish?
This bake is awesome with sides like fresh greens, coleslaw, tangy pickles, or even crispy sweet potato fries to round out your meal.
- → Can I use a different type of meat instead of beef?
For sure! Try ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat-free alternative if you prefer.
- → How can I tell when the bake is done?
Keep an eye out for the top to turn golden, and make sure the center is no longer gooey. Stick a toothpick in—it should come out clean.
- → Could I prep this ahead of time?
Yep! Bake it in advance and reheat slices later in the microwave or oven whenever you’re ready to dig in.