One-Pan Cheeseburger Pie Simple and Tasty Meal

Looking for a quick and tasty meal? This One-Pan Cheeseburger Pie is just what you need! With juicy beef, gooey cheese, and a perfect crust, it's a hit for the whole family. Plus, you’ll only need one pan for easy cleanup! I'll guide you through simple steps, tasty tips, and even fun variations. Ready to whip up this yummy dish? Let's dive in!

Ingredients

List of Main Ingredients

To make this One-Pan Cheeseburger Pie, you will need:

- 1 lb ground beef

- 1 small onion, finely chopped

- 1 tablespoon garlic powder

- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas and carrots)

- 1 package (15 oz) refrigerated pie crusts (includes 2 crusts)

- 3 large eggs

- 1 cup milk

- 1 tablespoon mustard

These ingredients come together to create a hearty and delicious meal. Each adds its own unique flavor and texture.

Optional Toppings

For added fun and flavor, consider these toppings:

- Ketchup

- Mustard

- Sliced pickles

These toppings let you customize each slice. They bring that classic burger taste right to your pie!

Equipment Needed

You will need a few simple tools to make this dish:

- Large skillet

- 9-inch pie pan

- Wooden spoon

- Medium mixing bowl

- Whisk

- Knife

Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smooth and easy. Gather these items before you start!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheating the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step helps the pie bake evenly. A hot oven gives you a nice, golden crust.

Sautéing the Onions and Ground Beef

In a large skillet, set the heat to medium. Add the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes. You want the onion to turn translucent and smell great. Then, add the ground beef. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Let it brown for about 5-7 minutes. If there's extra fat, drain it for better taste. Next, stir in the garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Toss in the frozen mixed veggies too. Cook for another 3 minutes. This warms the veggies and blends the flavors.

Assembling the Pie

Take one pie crust and roll it out a bit. Place it into a 9-inch pie pan. Press it against the bottom and sides. Spoon the beef and veggie mix into the crust. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and mustard until smooth. Pour this mix over the filling. It should fill all the gaps. Roll out the second pie crust and lay it over the filling. Trim any extra dough from the edges. Tuck the edges under and crimp them to seal. Use a knife to make slits in the top crust. This helps steam escape while baking. Place the pie in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Look for a golden brown crust and a set filling. After baking, let it cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This makes for cleaner cuts.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting Your Pie Crust

For a great pie crust, use chilled dough. This helps the crust stay flaky. When rolling out the crust, sprinkle flour on your surface. This stops it from sticking. Make sure to press the crust into the pan firmly. This will help it hold its shape during baking. Trim any extra dough but leave enough to crimp the edges. If you prefer a golden crust, brush the top with a little egg wash before baking.

Enhancing Flavor with Seasonings

To boost flavor, use garlic powder and Worcestershire sauce. These give depth to the meat. Salt and pepper are key. Always taste the mixture before baking. You can also add paprika or chili powder for a kick. Mixing in fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can add freshness. Don’t forget the cheese! Cheddar adds creaminess and a nice bite.

Presentation Tips for Serving

Serve your pie warm for the best taste. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for color. Place ketchup, mustard, and pickle slices on the side. This lets guests customize their slices. Slice the pie carefully for neat pieces. A sharp knife helps with this. For a fun touch, add a small flag or toothpick on top of each slice.

Variations

Vegetarian Option

You can make this dish vegetarian. Swap ground beef for 1 pound of plant-based meat. Use a mix of your favorite veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini. Sauté them until tender. The rest of the recipe stays the same. You get a tasty and hearty pie without meat.

Cheese Variations

Cheese is key to this pie. While cheddar is classic, feel free to mix it up. Try mozzarella for a gooey texture or pepper jack for a kick. Consider a blend of cheeses for depth. Cheese lovers can go wild here. Just remember to keep the amount around one cup.

Spicy Cheeseburger Pie

If you like heat, add spices to the beef mix. A teaspoon of chili powder or cayenne pepper works well. You can also mix in diced jalapeños for extra spice. Top the pie with spicy salsa before serving. This adds a fun twist and keeps everyone guessing!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftover Pie

To keep your leftover pie fresh, let it cool first. Then, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. You can also place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its taste and texture.

Reheating Instructions

When you're ready to enjoy the leftover pie, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pie on a baking sheet. Cover it with aluminum foil to keep it from getting too brown. Heat for about 15-20 minutes. The pie should be warm and ready to serve.

Freezing for Future Meals

If you want to save the pie for later, freezing is a great option. Wrap the cooled pie in plastic wrap, then in foil. This prevents freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then, reheat it in the oven as described above.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this pie ahead of time. You can fully assemble the pie and store it in the fridge. Cover it well with plastic wrap or foil. When you're ready to bake, take it out and let it sit for about 30 minutes. This helps it bake evenly. You can also freeze it if you want to save it for later. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking.

What can I use instead of ground beef?

If you want a different meat, try ground turkey or chicken. They give a lighter flavor. For a vegetarian option, use lentils or black beans. You can also use crumbled tofu or tempeh for a meat-free meal. Just season them well to match that cheeseburger vibe.

How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftovers can stay fresh in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Make sure to store the pie in an airtight container. To reheat, just pop it in the oven until it's warm. This will keep the crust nice and crispy. Enjoy your tasty pie again!

This blog post covered all you need for a great pie. We discussed the main ingredients, optional toppings, and essential equipment. You learned step-by-step instructions, from preheating the oven to serving. We shared tips for a perfect crust, flavor boosters, and eye-catching presentation. Plus, we explored tasty variations and smart storage ideas.

Now, you can confidently create your own pie. With practice and creativity, you'll make it just right every time. Enjoy cooking and sharing with others!