Southern-Style Cheeseburger Pie

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Introduction

This comforting classic combines the rich, savory flavors of a cheeseburger with the homestyle appeal of a baked casserole. It’s the kind of dish made for family dinners, potlucks, or any night when you want something warm, filling, and deeply satisfying. Southern kitchens have always celebrated hearty, crowd-pleasing meals, and this pie fits right in.

Ingredients & Quantities

For the Filling:

  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup diced pickles (optional but classic)

For the Biscuit-Style Topping:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 egg
  • ½ cup milk
  • 2 tbsp melted butter

Optional Garnish:

  • Ketchup
  • Mustard
  • Extra shredded cheese
  • Pickles
  • Chopped green onions

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meat Filling

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a skillet, cook ground beef and onion over medium heat until browned.
  3. Drain excess fat.
  4. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  5. Stir in shredded cheddar and diced pickles.
  6. Transfer mixture into a greased 9-inch pie dish.

2. Make the Biscuit Topping

  1. In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
  2. Add egg, milk, and melted butter.
  3. Stir until just combined (do not overmix).
  4. Spread batter evenly over the beef mixture.

3. Bake

  • Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and cooked through.
  • Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Origin & Cultural Significance

Cheeseburger Pie became popular in American Southern and Midwestern households in the 1960s–1980s as a creative, economical way to stretch ground beef. It was a staple in community cookbooks and church potlucks, combining diner-style flavors with the warmth of home cooking. This dish represents the Southern commitment to hearty meals that bring people together.

Description

You get a layered, flavorful “pie” with savory beef beneath a soft, slightly buttery biscuit crust. Each bite delivers the essence of a cheeseburger—melted cheddar, seasoned meat, and a hint of pickle—captured in a warm, comforting slice.

Optional Additions

  • Bacon bits for a smoky twist
  • Jalapeños for heat
  • Tomatoes or bell peppers inside the filling
  • Pepper jack cheese for extra flavor
  • A splash of Worcestershire for depth

Tips for Success

  • Drain the beef well so the pie doesn’t become greasy.
  • Don’t overmix the topping; it stays softer and fluffier when gently stirred.
  • Add cheese directly into the filling for the best melt and flavor.
  • Use a glass or ceramic pie dish for even baking.

Nutritional Information (Approx. per slice / 6 servings)

  • Calories: 360–420
  • Protein: 23–26 g
  • Carbs: 20–24 g
  • Fat: 22–26 g
  • Fiber: 1–2 g
  • Sodium: 650–800 mg

(Nutritional values change depending on cheese, beef fat % and toppings.)

Conclusion

This pie is everything people love about burgers—savory, cheesy, and satisfying—but baked into an easy, sharable dish. It’s perfect for busy nights or casual gatherings.

Recommendation

Serve with a fresh salad, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables to balance the richness and turn it into a complete meal.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

For a lighter version, try lean ground beef or turkey, reduced-fat cheese, and whole-wheat flour in the topping. You enjoy the same cozy flavors while keeping the dish balanced and wholesome.

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