If you’re craving a hearty, cheesy meal that feels like a big warm hug, the Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie Recipe is exactly what your dinner table needs. This dish takes the classic flavors of a cheeseburger—juicy ground beef, melted cheese, tangy pickles, and fresh tomato—and wraps them all up in a flaky pie crust that bakes to golden perfection. It’s comfort food at its best and perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers when you want something both satisfying and easy to prepare. Trust me, this pie will quickly become a go-to favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie Recipe lies in how simple ingredients come together to create layers of flavor and texture. You only need a handful of staples, but each one plays a crucial role—ground beef for heartiness, cheddar and mozzarella for the irresistible melty cheese pull, and a pie crust that holds it all together for a delightful crispy base.
- 1 pound ground beef: Use good quality beef for rich flavor and juicy texture.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the beef mixture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the savory elements without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: A gentle kick that balances the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a warm, savory undertone to the filling.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds subtle smokiness and vibrant color.
- 1 pre-made refrigerated pie crust: Saves time while giving a buttery, flaky base.
- 3 large eggs: Crucial for binding the filling and adding richness.
- 1 cup milk: Creates a creamy custard that sets the pie filling perfectly.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty, cheddar is the star cheese here.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Brings a lovely gooey stretch and mildness.
- 1/2 cup diced tomato: Adds freshness and a pop of color in every bite.
- 1/4 cup chopped pickles (optional): For that classic cheeseburger tang, pickles are a game-changer.
- Ketchup and mustard for serving: Optional but highly recommended to echo cheeseburger toppings.
How to Make Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Beef Mixture
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F so it’s nice and hot when your pie is ready for the oven. Next, in a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef combined with the finely chopped onion. Stir occasionally until the beef is browned and the onions become soft and translucent. Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika for that delicious, layered flavor. Once cooked, drain off any excess grease—this step keeps the pie from feeling greasy—and then set the beef mixture aside to cool slightly. This ensures your filling layers will stay distinct and delicious.
Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crust
While the beef cools, gently roll out your refrigerated pie crust and carefully fit it into a 9-inch pie pan. Press it snugly into the edges, making sure there are no air pockets or folds. This crust is your pie’s foundation, providing the perfect buttery crispness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling inside.
Step 3: Mix the Egg and Milk Custard
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until fully combined. This custard not only binds the ingredients but creates a luscious, velvety texture when baked. Pouring it over the assembled pie filling will help everything hold together once sliced, making every serving neat and desirable.
Step 4: Assemble the Cheeseburger Pie
Now it’s time for the fun part. Spread the cooked beef and onion mixture evenly over the prepared pie crust. Then, layer the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses on top, followed by the diced tomatoes and optional pickles. The layering adds unique textures and bursts of flavor with every bite. Finally, gently pour the egg and milk custard over the top, letting it seep evenly through the filling layers for a perfectly set pie.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Place your assembled pie in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the filling is completely set—no wobble when you gently shake the pan—and the top is a gorgeous golden brown. Let the pie cool for about 5 minutes before slicing, which helps it firm up and makes serving easier. Get ready for a cheeseburger pie experience that’s bursting with that classic diner flavor in every forkful.
How to Serve Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie Recipe
Garnishes
The right garnishes can elevate this pie to the next level. Freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of green onions add a fresh color pop, while dollops of ketchup and mustard on the side perfectly mimic cheeseburger condiments, making each bite feel nostalgic and complete. Feel free to add a few pickle slices on top for extra zing and crunch.
Side Dishes
This pie makes a full meal on its own, but pairing it with a crisp side salad or some roasted vegetables balances out the richness. A tangy coleslaw or classic French fries also pair wonderfully if you want to lean fully into that cheeseburger theme. For lower-carb accompaniments, steamed green beans or a simple cucumber salad work just as well.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving the Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie Recipe at a casual party, consider cutting it into small squares for easy finger food. You could also use miniature pie pans to make individual servings that look charming and make portion control a breeze. Another fun idea is to drizzle a cheese sauce or a spicy mayo on top for an extra layer of indulgence.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
The Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie Recipe makes excellent leftovers. Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It tastes just as good the next day and can save you from scrambling for dinner on a busy night.
Freezing
You can freeze the unbaked pie by assembling it in a disposable foil pie pan and wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as usual. Freezing is a fantastic way to have a comforting dinner ready whenever you want.
Reheating
To reheat, warm slices in a 350°F oven for 15 to 20 minutes until hot throughout and the crust is crisp again. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the crust flaky and cheese perfectly melty. A little reheating patience goes a long way to enjoying this pie second time around.
FAQs
Can I use a homemade pie crust instead of pre-made?
Absolutely! A homemade pie crust adds an extra touch of love and freshness, although pre-made crusts are a great time saver without sacrificing taste.
Is it possible to make this pie gluten-free?
Yes, just substitute the regular pie crust with a gluten-free one. Make sure other ingredients you use are also labeled gluten-free for best results.
Can I add other vegetables to make this cheeseburger pie more nutritious?
Definitely! Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even spinach make great additions and add more complexity without messing with the classic flavors.
How spicy is this recipe?
This recipe has a mild flavor profile with just a touch of paprika. If you like more heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños.
Can this recipe be doubled for a larger crowd?
You can easily double the ingredients and bake in a larger pan or two pie dishes. Just watch the baking time as it might need a little extra minute or two.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dish that feels both nostalgic and exciting, the Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie Recipe should be your next kitchen experiment. It’s easy, customizable, and packed with the familiar, comforting flavors of a cheeseburger all curled up in a flaky crust. Whether you want a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser for friends and family, this pie brings warmth and smiles to the table every time. Give it a try—you might just fall in love!
Print
Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Option Available
Description
Pioneer Woman Cheeseburger Pie is a hearty and comforting American main course featuring a savory ground beef and onion filling layered with cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, diced tomato, and optional pickles, all encased in a flaky pre-made pie crust. Baked to golden perfection and served with classic ketchup and mustard, this dish makes a flavorful and satisfying meal suitable for casual dinners or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Crust and Topping
- 1 pre-made refrigerated pie crust
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup diced tomato
- 1/4 cup chopped pickles (optional)
To Serve
- Ketchup
- Mustard
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F to prepare for baking the pie.
- Cook Beef and Onion: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef along with the finely chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion has softened. Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Drain excess grease and let the mixture cool slightly.
- Prepare Pie Crust: Roll out the refrigerated pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan, ensuring it covers the bottom and sides evenly.
- Mix Eggs and Milk: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until fully combined.
- Assemble Pie: Spread the cooked beef and onion mixture evenly over the pie crust. Layer the shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese on top, followed by diced tomato and chopped pickles if using.
- Add Egg Mixture: Pour the egg and milk mixture over the layered ingredients in the crust, making sure it is evenly distributed to bind the filling.
- Bake: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the filling is set and the top is a golden brown color.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the pie to cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with ketchup and mustard on the side if desired.
Notes
- Optionally, add sautéed mushrooms or green peppers to the beef mixture for extra flavor.
- This pie can be made ahead of time and reheated for a convenient weeknight dinner.
