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Hearty & Easy Cheeseburger Pie: The Ultimate Family Dinner Recipe

Discovering new family favorites often happens in the most unexpected ways. This incredible Cheeseburger Pie, for instance, came to life one evening purely on a whim, born from a need to use up ingredients I had on hand. Little did I know, this spontaneous creation would quickly ascend to the top of our most requested dinner list, becoming a cherished comfort food for everyone!

View of all the layers of the cheeseburger pie, a slice on a small plate with a fork ready to eat.

The beauty of home cooking lies in its flexibility and the delightful surprises it can bring. This particular recipe originated from a fortunate combination of pantry staples: a forgotten pie crust tucked away in the freezer, some defrosted ground beef that needed to be cooked, and a beautiful heirloom tomato begging to be used. With a quick shred of cheddar cheese, a sautéed onion, and a scramble of fresh eggs, the concept of a “Cheeseburger Pie” rapidly materialized from a simple idea into a delicious reality.

Why You’ll Love This Cheeseburger Pie

This isn’t just another dinner recipe; it’s a culinary experience that brings the beloved flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a convenient, family-friendly pie format. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen, yet special enough for weekend gatherings. The pie combines savory ground beef, rich melted cheese, fresh tomatoes, and onions, all enveloped in a fluffy egg custard and baked in a flaky pie crust. It’s a complete meal in a slice!

One of the greatest advantages of making this cheeseburger pie at home is the complete control you have over the ingredients. Whether you prefer a specific type of cheese, have a favorite kind of tomato, or want to adjust the seasoning, this recipe is incredibly adaptable. It’s a fantastic way to cater to individual tastes and dietary preferences within your family, ensuring everyone gets a meal they truly enjoy.

Ingredients for Your Perfect Cheeseburger Pie

Crafting the perfect Cheeseburger Pie starts with selecting quality ingredients, but don’t be afraid to customize! The beauty of cooking from scratch is that you can always tailor a recipe to your preferences. For example, while red onions offer a slightly sweeter, milder flavor when cooked, white onions work just as well. Similarly, any ripe tomato you have on hand will be delicious, or you can omit them entirely if they’re not a family favorite. However, one secret ingredient you absolutely shouldn’t skip is the blend of ketchup and mustard added to the ground beef as it browns. This simple addition is key to infusing that unmistakable, authentic hamburger flavor that makes this pie so special.

Here’s what you’ll need to create this fantastic pie:

2 Pie Crusts (store-bought or homemade)
1-2 large Tomatoes, sliced
2 teaspoons Olive Oil
1 medium Red Onion, diced
1 ½ pound Ground Beef
Kosher Salt, Diamond Crystal
Fresh Cracked Black Pepper
1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce
2 tablespoons Ketchup
1 tablespoon Yellow Mustard
4 cups Cheddar Cheese, shredded
16 large Eggs
¼ cup Whole Milk
Additional Kosher Salt & Fresh Cracked Black Pepper for seasoning eggs and tomatoes

For precise measurements and detailed instructions, refer to the full recipe card below.

Ingredient Spotlight and Tips:

Pie Crusts: You can opt for convenience with store-bought frozen pie crusts, or embrace the satisfaction of a homemade version. If you’re feeling ambitious, a flaky homemade crust truly elevates the dish.
Tomatoes: Using fresh, ripe tomatoes adds a wonderful tang and juiciness. Heirloom tomatoes are particularly flavorful. The key is preparing them correctly to prevent a soggy pie, a technique we’ll cover in the method section.
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef works best to avoid excess grease. The combination of Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and mustard is crucial here, as it mimics the signature taste of a grilled burger.
Cheddar Cheese: Freshly shredded cheddar melts beautifully and offers the best flavor. While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, it often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or even a smoky Gouda for a twist.
Onions: Sautéing the diced red onion until softened and slightly caramelized adds a layer of sweet, savory depth that perfectly complements the beef.
Eggs and Milk: These form the creamy custard base of your pie, binding all the delicious cheeseburger components together. Whole milk provides the richest texture, but other milks can be used.

Step-by-Step Method: How to Make Cheeseburger Pie

Making this Cheeseburger Pie is simpler than you might think, and the payoff in flavor is enormous. Whether you choose to prepare your pie crust from scratch or use a store-bought option, the process remains straightforward. Remember, cooking should be enjoyable, so choose the path of least resistance on a busy day! My personal preference for pie crust varies with my schedule; some weeks I’ll bake my own, while others I’m thankful for a good quality frozen crust.

One critical step that can make all the difference in the final texture of your pie, preventing a watery or soggy bottom, is properly preparing your tomatoes. After slicing them, arrange the tomato slices on a layer of paper towels. Sprinkle them generously with salt, and let them sit for about 10 minutes. The salt will draw out excess moisture. Before adding them to the pie, gently dab the tops of the slices with another paper towel to remove any remaining surface water. A final sprinkle of salt and pepper will season them perfectly. This simple technique ensures your pie maintains its delightful structure and doesn’t become waterlogged.

Looking down at a sliced Cheeseburger Pie, with a few sliced removed and on plates around it.

Detailed Preparation Steps:

**Crust Preparation:** Begin by preparing your pie crusts. If making them from scratch, ensure they are rolled out and fit snugly into two deep pie plates. If using frozen crusts, follow package directions for thawing.
**Tomato Treatment:** This is key! Slice your tomatoes and place them on paper towels. Season with a good sprinkle of salt. Let them sit for 10 minutes to release moisture, then blot dry with another paper towel. This prevents a soggy pie.
**Oven Preheat:** Preheat your oven to a steady 400°F (200°C).
**Sauté Onions:** In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add your diced red onion and cook until it softens and just begins to turn golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, transfer the sautéed onions to a small bowl.
**Brown Ground Beef:** Add the ground beef to the same skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Season with 2 teaspoons of Kosher salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Cook until the beef is mostly browned.
**Flavor Infusion:** Drain any excess fat from the beef. Then, stir in the Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and yellow mustard. Continue cooking over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until nearly all the liquid has evaporated. This concentrates the “cheeseburger” flavor. Remove from heat.
**Layering the Pies:** Divide the sautéed onions evenly between the bottoms of your two prepared pie crusts. Next, spoon the cooked ground beef mixture over the onions in both pie tins. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the beef in each pie, reserving a little extra for the very top.
**Tomato Arrangement:** Arrange your prepared, dried tomato slices over the cheese layer in an appealing pattern.
**Egg Custard:** In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and whole milk until well combined. Season with 1 teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper.
**Pour & Bake:** Carefully pour the egg mixture over the tomatoes in each pie crust, filling them to the brim. Place the pie tins on a baking sheet to catch any potential overflow during baking.
**Final Touches:** Crack a bit more fresh black pepper over the top of the tomatoes and sprinkle on any remaining reserved cheddar cheese.
**Baking:** Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the center of the pie is set but still has a slight “jello-like” wobble when gently shaken.
**Rest & Serve:** Remove the pies from the oven and let them rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period is crucial for the pie to set completely and ensures clean slices.

Serving Suggestions and Customization Ideas

This Cheeseburger Pie is a robust and complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette, or some crispy sweet potato fries for an extra nod to classic diner food. For a lighter touch, serve it alongside a crisp coleslaw. You could also offer extra condiments like pickles, finely diced raw onion, or even a drizzle of “special sauce” (a mix of mayo, ketchup, and relish) for those who love to load up their burgers.

Looking to put your own spin on it? Here are a few customization ideas:

**Spice It Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ground beef, or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture for a spicy kick. Chopped jalapeños (fresh or pickled) can also be added with the tomatoes.
**Add Veggies:** Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach into the ground beef mixture for added nutrients and flavor. Sauté them along with the onions.
**Cheese Variations:** While cheddar is classic, Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of Mexican cheeses would also be fantastic. A touch of smoked cheddar could add an interesting depth.
**Bacon Bits:** Crispy bacon bits folded into the ground beef or sprinkled on top before baking would take this pie to the next level of cheeseburger authenticity!
**Crust Creativity:** Experiment with different crust types – a cornmeal crust for a slightly different texture, or even a gluten-free crust for those with dietary restrictions.

Storing and Reheating Your Cheeseburger Pie

Leftovers of this Cheeseburger Pie are just as delicious the next day! Once the pie has cooled completely to room temperature, wrap it tightly with cling film or aluminum foil, or place individual slices in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm individual slices in the microwave for a minute or two until heated through, or for a crispier crust, reheat larger portions in an oven preheated to 300°F (150°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.

More Cheeseburger Inspired Recipes

If you’re a true cheeseburger enthusiast like we are, you’ll love exploring other ways to enjoy those fantastic flavors. Don’t miss out on my Not-So-Basic Cheeseburger, which elevates a classic burger to gourmet status, or my refreshing Cheeseburger Salad, a lighter take that doesn’t skimp on flavor. For those who appreciate a bit of heat, my Hatch Chili Cheeseburger delivers a delightful spicy kick. And if you’re looking for alternative burger options, I also have a great Turkey Burger recipe, as well as a comforting and easy Homemade Hamburger Helper Recipe that brings back nostalgic flavors. There’s a cheeseburger-inspired meal for every occasion!

📖 Recipe

Yield: 2 8-inch Quiches

Cheeseburger Pie

Prep Time:
30 minutes

Cook Time:
45 minutes

Total Time:
1 hour 15 minutes

I whipped this Cheeseburger Pie up on a whim one night, and it has become a family favorite around here! A simple and delicious dinner!

Ingredients

2 Pie Crusts, lining two pie tins
1-2 large Tomatoes, sliced
2 teaspoons Olive Oil
1 medium Red Onion, diced
1 ½ pound Ground Beef
Kosher Salt, Diamond Crystal
Fresh Cracked Black Pepper
1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce
2 tablespoons Ketchup
1 tablespoon Yellow Mustard
4 cups Cheddar Cheese, shredded
16 large Eggs
¼ cup Whole Milk
Kosher Salt, Diamond Crystal
Fresh Cracked Black Pepper

Instructions

Prepare your favorite pie crust and line two deep pie plates with it, or use frozen.

Slice the tomatoes, and season them with salt, then place them on paper towels until they release their excess liquid. Let them sit for about 10 minutes. Dab the top with another towel so they are somewhat dry.

Preheat the oven to 400˚F.

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat, then add the onion and cook until softened and they begin to take on some color.

Remove the onions to a small bowl and add the ground beef to the pan with 2 teaspoons of salt and ½ a teaspoon of pepper. Cook until the beef begins to brown, then add the Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and mustard. Stir with the heat on until nearly all the liquid has evaporated. Remove from the heat.

In your two pie tins, add half the onions to the bottom of each, and layer the cooked ground beef over top. Sprinkle over half of the cheddar cheese onto each, reserving a little bit for on top.

Arrange the tomatoes on top, then whip the eggs in a large bowl with the milk, 1 teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper.

Pour the eggs over the tomatoes to fill the pie crusts, then place the pie tins on a baking sheet in case there is any overflow.

Crack a bit more pepper over the top of the tomatoes and sprinkle over any extra cheese if you reserved any.

Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, till the center of the pie wobbles like jello. Remove from the oven and let rest for 15minutes before slicing and serving.

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, after cooling completely. Wrap tightly with cling film or place in an airtight container.

Did you make this recipe?

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This Cheeseburger Pie truly embodies comfort and convenience, transforming familiar flavors into an exciting new format. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, combined with a little creativity, can result in a dish that brings smiles to the table. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward to follow and guarantees a delicious, hearty meal. Give it a try tonight and watch it become a new staple in your family’s culinary rotation!

Loaded Cheeseburger Pie