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Southern-Style Cheeseburger Pie
If you love the cozy, familiar flavors of a cheeseburger but want something easier to slice and serve, this Southern-Style Cheeseburger Pie is for you. It combines seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and a tender, biscuit-like topping into a single, shareable dish. Think of it as a cross between a savory pie and a casserole — simple to assemble, comforting to eat, and ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or a make-ahead weeknight meal.
Why You’ll Want to Make This
This recipe captures everything that’s great about a burger — juicy beef, bright seasonings, and gooey cheese — but it adds the convenience of a baked dish that reheats beautifully. The topping is lightly tender rather than dense, so every forkful balances beefy savor with a buttery, slightly cakey crust. It’s easy to customize and scales well for hungry crowds.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef (85% recommended)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup (240 ml) canned diced tomatoes, drained (or fresh, diced)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella (optional)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 2 tbsp melted butter (plus extra for brushing)
- Optional toppings: dill pickle slices, ketchup, mustard, chopped fresh parsley
Equipment
You’ll need a large skillet, a 9-inch (23 cm) pie dish or an 8×8-inch baking pan, mixing bowls, and a whisk. The recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require special tools.
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease the pie dish or baking pan and set aside.
2. Cook the Beef
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Break it up with a spatula and cook until just browned. Stir in the chopped onion and garlic and cook 3–4 minutes until softened. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
3. Season & Add Tomatoes
Return the pan to medium heat and stir in salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and Worcestershire sauce. Fold in the drained diced tomatoes and cook another 2 minutes to heat through. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Stir in ¾ cup of the cheddar and all of the mozzarella (if using).
4. Make the Topping
In a bowl whisk the eggs, milk, mayonnaise, and melted butter until smooth. In a second bowl combine the flour and baking powder, then stir into the wet mixture until just combined — the batter will be pourable but thick.
5. Assemble & Bake
Spread the beef and cheese mixture evenly in the prepared dish. Pour the batter over the top and smooth gently — it will seep between the beef, forming a cohesive top layer. Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup cheddar over the batter. Bake 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean. If the top browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil.
6. Rest & Finish
Allow the pie to rest 10 minutes before slicing. Top with optional pickles, a drizzle of ketchup or mustard, and chopped parsley if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Serve slices hot with classic sides: french fries, coleslaw, baked beans, or a crisp green salad. For a Southern twist, pair with sweet tea and a side of fried okra. Leftovers make excellent sandwiches — toast the bread and add a pickle for crunch.
Variations & Customizations
- Bacon & Onion: Stir in ½ cup cooked, chopped bacon and sautéed mushrooms for extra umami.
- Spicy Kick: Add 1 diced jalapeño or ½ tsp cayenne to the beef for heat.
- Vegetarian: Replace beef with a seasoned mix of cooked lentils and sautéed crumbled tempeh.
- Slider-Style: Bake in a 9×13 pan and cut into smaller squares for party finger food.
Storage & Reheating
Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes or microwave for 1–2 minutes (time varies by microwave). You can freeze portions wrapped tightly for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Approximate Nutrition (per generous slice)
Calories: ~420 • Protein: 26 g • Fat: 26 g • Carbohydrates: 20 g • Fiber: 1.5 g • Sodium: varies by ingredients (Values are estimates — see disclaimer.)
Final Notes & Tips
Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and flavor. Don’t overmix the topping batter — a light hand gives a tender texture. If you prefer a crisper top, brush the surface with a bit more melted butter before baking. This recipe is forgiving and welcomes improvisation, so adjust seasonings and add-ins to fit your family’s tastes.
Disclaimer
This recipe and nutritional guidance are provided for informational purposes only. Nutritional figures are approximate and will vary based on specific brands, portion sizes, and substitutions. For precise dietary or allergy concerns, please consult product labels or a qualified nutrition professional.