There’s something special about turning weeknight staples into a meal that feels like a treat, and this Southern Style Cheeseburger Pie does exactly that. It takes everything you love about a classic cheeseburger and transforms it into a comforting, shareable pie that feeds the whole family. One slice, and you’ll understand why this recipe has become my go-to when I need something hearty that comes together in under an hour.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Southern Style Cheeseburger Pie
I always keep these ingredients stocked because this recipe comes together so quickly when you have the basics on hand. The beauty here is simplicity: no exotic ingredients, just straightforward pantry staples that create something truly satisfying. Using quality ground beef makes a noticeable difference in flavor, so I recommend going for 85/15 if you can.
- 1 pound ground beef (85/15 lean-to-fat ratio works best)
- 1 small onion, chopped (about ½ cup) – I usually dice mine fairly small so it blends seamlessly
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – this adds incredible depth
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar is my preference for bolder flavor)
- ½ cup milk (whole milk gives the best texture)
- 2 large eggs – I recommend bringing these to room temperature first
- ½ cup Bisquick mix (or your favorite baking mix)
Step-by-Step Instructions
I recommend preheating your oven before you start cooking the beef so everything flows smoothly. This recipe moves quickly once you begin, and having your oven ready prevents any delays.
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F and grease a 9-inch pie plate. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion together for 6-8 minutes, breaking up the meat as it cooks. You want the beef nicely browned with no pink remaining and the onion soft and translucent. Drain any excess fat thoroughly to prevent a greasy pie.
Step 2: Stir in the salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup, mixing everything until well combined. Cook for 1 more minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. The mixture should smell rich and savory.
Step 3: Transfer the beef mixture to the greased pie plate, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top in an even layer. The cheese creates a melty barrier between the meat and the biscuit topping.
Step 4: In a medium bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and Bisquick mix until smooth with no lumps, about 30-45 seconds. Pour this mixture evenly over the beef and cheese. Don’t worry if it seems thin – it will set during baking.
Step 5: Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top turns golden brown and puffs up beautifully. The edges should pull slightly away from the pan. Insert a knife into the center – it should come out clean with no wet batter clinging to it. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing for the cleanest cuts.
Perfect Pairings for Southern Style Cheeseburger Pie
This hearty pie pairs wonderfully with lighter sides that add freshness and crunch to balance the rich, savory flavors.
Crisp Green Salad: A simple mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the cheese and beef while adding fresh vegetables to your plate.
Creamy Coleslaw: The cool, crunchy texture and slight tang from coleslaw complements the warm pie perfectly, plus it echoes that classic burger-and-slaw pairing.
Sweet Potato Fries: These add a touch of sweetness and plenty of vitamins while maintaining that comfort food vibe your family expects from this meal. Try our cheesy ranch potatoes for another potato side option.
Roasted Green Beans: Quick-roasted green beans with garlic bring color, nutrition, and a slight char that contrasts beautifully with the soft pie texture.
Dill Pickles: Keep it simple with pickle spears on the side, just like you’d serve with burgers. The acidity brightens every bite.
Storage & Serving Tips
Store any leftover pie covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The Bisquick crust holds up remarkably well, maintaining its texture even after a day or two.
For reheating, I recommend using your oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). This preserves the texture of the crust and ensures the cheese gets properly melty again. Individual slices reheat well for quick lunches throughout the week.
This pie is incredibly versatile for different occasions. Serve it for a casual weeknight dinner, bring it to a potluck where it travels well, or make it ahead for busy evenings when you need dinner ready fast. You can assemble the beef layer and cheese, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Mix and pour the Bisquick topping just before baking for the best rise and texture. The recipe also doubles easily if you’re feeding a crowd.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the beef layer and cheese, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Mix and pour the Bisquick topping just before baking for the best rise and texture.
What can I substitute for Bisquick?
Make your own by mixing ½ cup flour, ¾ teaspoon baking powder, a pinch of salt, and 1½ teaspoons cold butter cut in until crumbly. It works nearly identically.
Can I freeze Southern Style Cheeseburger Pie?
Absolutely. Freeze the baked and cooled pie wrapped tightly for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat at 350°F until warmed through.
Southern Style Cheeseburger Pie
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9-inch pie plate and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion together for 6-8 minutes, breaking up the meat as it cooks until the beef is browned and the onion is tender. Drain any excess fat thoroughly.
- Stir in the salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup. Mix well and cook for 1 more minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
- Transfer the beef mixture to the prepared pie plate and spread it evenly across the bottom. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the beef in an even layer.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and Bisquick mix until smooth with no lumps, about 30-45 seconds. Pour this mixture evenly over the beef and cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top turns golden brown and puffs up. The edges should pull slightly away from the pan. Insert a knife into the center – it should come out clean with no wet batter clinging to it.
- Let the pie rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving for the cleanest cuts.
