Effortless Cheeseburger Bake

Easy & Delicious Impossible Cheeseburger Pie: Your New Weeknight Favorite

Indulge in the savory delight of Impossible Cheeseburger Pie – a truly effortless and satisfying dish that brings together seasoned ground beef, rich cheddar cheese, and a magically self-forming Bisquick baking mix crust. This comforting pie is the perfect solution for a hearty, family-friendly meal any night of the week!

Overhead view of cheeseburger pie with a slice taken out.

Do you remember those classic, no-fuss recipes from your childhood that just hit different? For many, the Impossible Cheeseburger Pie is one of those timeless dishes! It evokes a sense of nostalgia, bringing back memories of simple, delicious home-cooked meals. I fondly recall the first time my mom made it – its incredible simplicity made it an instant hit for our busy weeknights. Over the years, I’ve lovingly adapted the recipe slightly, enhancing its flavor profile and making it even more irresistible. A personal touch I’ve added is using my Homemade Bisquick Mix, which I find gives the crust an even more delightful texture and taste, though store-bought works wonderfully too!

What truly sets this Impossible Cheeseburger Pie apart is its ingenious use of Bisquick baking mix. This versatile ingredient does more than just bind the ingredients; it magically transforms into a golden, tender, and slightly crispy crust that perfectly cradles the savory, cheesy filling. The beauty of this recipe lies in its name: “impossible” because it requires no traditional pie crust, making it incredibly easy and accessible for even novice cooks. It’s a delightful fusion of textures and flavors, offering a comforting combination that’s hard to resist.

Why This Impossible Cheeseburger Pie Recipe Will Become Your Go-To:

  • Effortlessly Simple: Forget the fuss of making or rolling out a pie crust. This recipe uses a clever Bisquick batter that forms its own crust as it bakes, saving you time and effort. It’s a true set-it-and-forget-it kind of meal that’s perfect for those busy evenings when you need a delicious dinner without the stress.
  • Pantry-Friendly Ingredients: You likely have most of the ingredients for this savory pie already on hand. From ground beef and onions to cheddar cheese and a few basic seasonings, this recipe relies on staples that are easy to find and budget-friendly. It’s a fantastic way to whip up a satisfying meal without a special trip to the grocery store.
  • Perfectly Freezer-Friendly: Prepare a batch ahead of time or freeze leftovers for quick meals later! This pie freezes beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prepping. Simply thaw, reheat, and enjoy a comforting homemade dinner whenever hunger strikes. It’s ideal for busy families or anyone looking to stock their freezer with convenient, wholesome options.
  • Ultimate Comfort Food: There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, cheesy, and meaty pie. This Impossible Cheeseburger Pie delivers on all fronts, offering that hearty, satisfying feeling you crave from classic comfort food. It’s the culinary equivalent of a warm hug, perfect for chilly evenings or simply when you need a pick-me-up.
  • Ideal for Weeknight Dinners: With minimal prep and a relatively short baking time, this pie is a godsend for weeknight meals. It comes together quickly, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying dinner with your loved ones. It’s a complete meal in one dish, making cleanup a breeze too!
Ingredients: ground beef, baking mix, eggs, worcestershire, milk, onion, garlic powder, cheddar, mustard, and dill pickle.

Essential Ingredient Notes & Smart Swaps:

Understanding each ingredient’s role and knowing possible substitutions can elevate your cooking experience and adapt this recipe to your preferences or what you have on hand.

BISQUICK BAKING MIX: This is the “impossible” magic behind our pie! The Bisquick baking mix forms that unique, tender, and slightly crispy crust without the need for traditional pastry. You can absolutely use your favorite store-bought brand for convenience. However, if you’re looking for an extra touch of homemade goodness or want to control the ingredients, I highly recommend trying my Homemade Bisquick recipe. It’s surprisingly simple to make and yields fantastic results. For those with dietary restrictions, a gluten-free Bisquick mix can be used, or you can substitute a cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend in my homemade version to make this pie entirely gluten-free.

GROUND BEEF AND ONION: For the best flavor and texture, I typically opt for 90/10 lean ground beef. This ratio provides a good balance of flavor without excessive grease. However, feel free to use whatever ground beef you have available, whether it’s 80/20 or even ground turkey for a lighter option. Just remember that if you’re using a higher fat content, it’s crucial to thoroughly drain any excess grease after browning the meat with the diced onion. This step prevents the pie from becoming oily and ensures the crust sets properly. The onion adds a foundational aromatic flavor that complements the beef beautifully, so don’t skip it!

DILL PICKLE, CHEESE, GARLIC POWDER, WORCESTERSHIRE, AND MUSTARD: These are the secret weapons that infuse our pie with that unmistakable, delicious cheeseburger flavor!

  • Shredded Cheddar Cheese: A classic cheeseburger staple, cheddar melts wonderfully and adds a creamy, sharp, and salty element. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or even a smoked cheddar for a different twist.
  • Chopped Dill Pickle: This might seem unconventional in a pie, but trust me, the dill pickle is a game-changer! Its tangy, briny crunch perfectly mimics the experience of a fresh cheeseburger topping and cuts through the richness of the beef and cheese. If you’re not a fan of pickles, you can reduce the amount or omit them, but I encourage you to try it – it truly enhances the “cheeseburger” profile.
  • Garlic Powder: A fundamental seasoning that adds a warm, savory depth to the beef mixture.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: This magical ingredient provides a rich, umami boost, enhancing the beefy flavor and adding a subtle tang that rounds out the savory notes.
  • Prepared Mustard: Just a touch of yellow mustard adds that quintessential burger joint tang and a hint of spice, marrying all the “cheeseburger” elements together.

Remember, if there’s an ingredient you genuinely don’t enjoy from this list, you can certainly adjust the quantity or leave it out to suit your taste. However, for that authentic cheeseburger experience, these components are key!

MILK AND EGGS: These liquid ingredients are essential for creating the “crust” portion of our Impossible Pie. When combined with the Bisquick mix, they form a pourable batter that bakes up into that lovely, self-forming crust. The eggs also help bind the mixture and contribute to the pie’s overall structure and tenderness. Whole milk is generally recommended for richness, but 2% milk will work just fine as well.

Six pictures showing how to mix together the pie ingredients.

How To Master Impossible Cheeseburger Pie in Two Simple Steps:

Creating this delicious cheeseburger pie is surprisingly straightforward, making it an excellent choice for cooks of all skill levels. Below is a quick overview of the simple method. For precise measurements and detailed step-by-step instructions, be sure to refer to the printable recipe card located at the very bottom of this post.

STEP 1: Prepare the Flavorful Filling. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a 9-inch pie plate. In a large skillet, brown your chosen ground beef along with the diced onion over medium heat. It’s important to cook until the beef is no longer pink and the onion is softened and translucent, releasing its aromatic flavors. Once cooked, drain any excess grease thoroughly – this prevents a soggy pie and ensures a cleaner flavor. Transfer the seasoned beef and onion mixture into your prepared pie plate. Evenly stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and the chopped dill pickle. These ingredients will form the hearty, cheesy, and tangy base of your pie, capturing the essence of a classic cheeseburger. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the topping.

STEP 2: Mix, Pour, and Bake to Perfection. In a separate medium-sized bowl, combine the Bisquick baking mix, milk, large eggs, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, and prepared mustard. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well combined and form a smooth, pourable batter. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Gently pour this Bisquick batter evenly over the ground beef and cheese mixture in the pie plate. The batter will settle around the filling and eventually form the “impossible” crust. Place the pie plate into your preheated oven and bake for approximately 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This crucial cooling period allows the pie to set properly, ensuring neat, clean slices that hold their shape beautifully. Then, it’s ready to serve and enjoy!

A serving of impossible cheeseburger pie in a white shallow bowl with a fork taking a bite out.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Impossible Cheeseburger Pie

CAN THIS IMPOSSIBLE CHEESEBURGER PIE BE MADE GLUTEN-FREE?

Absolutely, making this pie gluten-free is quite simple! You have a couple of excellent options. Firstly, you can easily use a commercially available gluten-free Bisquick baking mix. Many brands now offer these, and they perform wonderfully as a direct substitute. Alternatively, if you prefer to make your own gluten-free baking mix, you can use a high-quality cup-for-cup gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in my Homemade Bisquick recipe. Just ensure your chosen gluten-free flour blend is designed for baking and includes xanthan gum, or add it separately if your blend doesn’t contain it, for optimal texture and binding. Either way, you can enjoy a delicious gluten-free version of this comforting pie!

IS THIS PIE FREEZER FRIENDLY FOR MAKE-AHEAD MEALS?

Yes, this Impossible Cheeseburger Pie is wonderfully freezer-friendly, making it an ideal choice for meal prepping or having an emergency dinner on hand! To freeze, first ensure the baked pie has cooled completely to room temperature. This is crucial to prevent ice crystals from forming. Once fully cooled, tightly wrap the entire pie (or individual slices for convenience) in a layer of plastic wrap, followed by a layer of heavy-duty aluminum foil. This double-layer protection helps prevent freezer burn and maintains freshness. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the pie completely overnight in the refrigerator. To reheat, place the thawed pie (covered with foil to prevent drying) in an oven preheated to 325°F (160°C) for about 20 minutes, or until it’s heated through to your desired temperature. For best results, avoid reheating directly from frozen, as this can lead to uneven heating.

Overhead view of a slice of impossible cheeseburger pie in a shallow white bowl with a salad. Fork in the plate.

Exciting Variations to Customize Your Cheeseburger Pie:

One of the best things about this Impossible Cheeseburger Pie is how easily it can be customized to suit different tastes or ingredients you have on hand. Here are some fantastic ideas to make it your own:

  • Bring on the Bacon: Who doesn’t love bacon with their cheeseburger? For an extra layer of savory flavor and satisfying crunch, cook and crumble some crispy bacon bits and stir them into the ground beef mixture along with the cheese and pickles. Bacon adds a delightful smokiness that truly elevates the “cheeseburger” experience.
  • Boost Your Veggies: To sneak in more nutrients or simply add extra texture, consider grating a medium zucchini and stirring it into the beef mixture. The zucchini will melt seamlessly into the pie, adding moisture and healthy goodness without significantly altering the flavor. Finely diced bell peppers (any color!) are another excellent addition, offering a pop of color and a mild, sweet crunch. You could also try adding finely chopped mushrooms or spinach (squeezed dry).
  • Switch Up the Protein: While ground beef is traditional, ground turkey is a fantastic lean alternative. If using ground turkey, you might want to add a little extra olive oil when browning to prevent it from drying out, and perhaps a touch more seasoning like onion powder or paprika to boost its flavor. Ground chicken or even a plant-based ground “meat” substitute could also work well for a vegetarian option.
  • Explore New Cheeses: Don’t limit yourself to just cheddar! Experiment with different cheeses to discover new flavor profiles. Pepper Jack will add a subtle kick, Colby Jack offers a milder, creamier melt, while white cheddar brings a sharper, more sophisticated taste. Swiss cheese or even a blend of Italian cheeses could provide an interesting twist. The possibilities are endless!
  • Make it a Crowd-Pleaser (Double the Recipe): This recipe is incredibly easy to scale up for larger gatherings or for plenty of leftovers. Simply double all the ingredients and bake it in a 9×13-inch baking pan. Keep in mind that when doubling, you may need to increase the baking time slightly. Always check for a golden-brown top and ensure a knife inserted into the center comes out clean to confirm it’s fully cooked.

Perfect Serving Suggestions to Complete Your Meal:

To truly embrace the cheeseburger experience, serve your Impossible Cheeseburger Pie with a variety of classic burger toppings! Offer a spread of diced fresh tomatoes, shredded iceberg lettuce, and thinly sliced green onions for a burst of freshness. Don’t forget the essential condiments like ketchup and mustard – perhaps even a drizzle of special burger sauce or a dollop of relish – to let everyone customize their slice to perfection. For a balanced and complete meal, I love pairing this hearty pie with a simple, crisp side salad dressed with my light and flavorful Homemade Ranch Dressing. The freshness of the salad provides a wonderful contrast to the rich pie. Alternatively, these Oven Roasted Green Beans would make a fantastic and healthy accompaniment, adding another layer of wholesome goodness to your dinner.

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Impossible Cheeseburger Pie

Impossible Cheeseburger Pie is a delicious and effortless dish that combines ground beef, cheddar cheese, and Bisquick baking mix to create a savory, satisfying meal. Perfect for any night of the week!
Servings: 6
Author: Malinda Linnebur
Overhead view of cheeseburger pie with a slice taken out.
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Print Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
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Ingredients

  • 1 pound (500g) lean ground beef
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 cup (75g) shredded cheddar cheese
  • cup chopped dill pickle
  • ¾ cup (100g) Bisquick baking mix
  • 1 cup (235ml) milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon prepared mustard

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350℉ (175°C). Lightly grease a 9″ pie plate and set aside.
  • In a large skillet, brown ground beef and onion until no longer pink and onion is softened. Drain any excess grease thoroughly. Pour into the prepared pie plate. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped dill pickle. Set aside.
  • In a medium bowl, combine the Bisquick baking mix, milk, eggs, garlic powder, Worcestershire sauce, and prepared mustard. Whisk until well combined, being careful not to overmix. Pour this batter evenly over the beef mixture in the pie plate. Bake for 25 minutes, or until golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing if you want neat, perfect slices.

Notes

  1. STORAGE: To keep your Impossible Cheeseburger Pie fresh, store any cooled leftovers in an airtight container or covered tightly with plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This ensures its delicious flavor and texture are preserved for future meals.
  2. FREEZER-FRIENDLY: This pie is an excellent candidate for freezing. Once baked, allow the pie to cool completely to room temperature. Then, wrap it securely in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of heavy-duty aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw the pie overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat, covered, at 325°F (160°C) for about 20 minutes, or until it is thoroughly heated through.
  3. NUTRITION: Please note that the nutritional information provided is an estimate. The exact values can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients used and any modifications made to the recipe. This website aims to provide general information and is not intended as nutritional advice, a diet plan, or a health plan. Readers are ultimately responsible for making their own informed decisions regarding their health and dietary needs.

Nutrition

Calories: 473kcal | Carbohydrates: 24g | Protein: 30g | Fat: 28g | Saturated Fat: 13g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 10g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 154mg | Sodium: 827mg | Potassium: 449mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 543IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 407mg | Iron: 3mg
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