Name: Southern Style Cheeseburger Pie
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 small onion, chopped; 0.5 tsp salt; 0.25 tsp black pepper; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 0.5 cup milk; 2 large eggs; 0.5 cup Bisquick mix; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tbsp ketchup

When it comes to easy dinner recipes that please the whole family, nothing beats a Southern Style Cheeseburger Pie. This savory dish takes all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger—juicy ground beef, sharp cheddar cheese, and tangy condiments—and bakes them into a golden Bisquick crust for a warm, satisfying meal.

The beauty of this dish is in its simplicity. With just a handful of pantry staples and about 15 minutes of prep time, you’ll have a hearty, crowd-pleasing dinner ready to bake. The creamy Bisquick topping bakes into a light crust, while the Worcestershire and ketchup add that signature cheeseburger tang. Each slice delivers gooey, cheesy comfort with a Southern twist—making it one of the best budget-friendly weeknight meals you’ll ever try.

Perfect for busy families, potlucks, or when you need a reliable easy dinner idea, this pie is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Cheeseburger Pie

Quick & Simple – Only 15 minutes of prep and minimal cleanup.
Budget-Friendly Meal – Uses affordable ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
Family Comfort Food – Kids and adults both love the familiar cheeseburger flavor in casserole form.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Assemble ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
Perfect for Beginners – No fancy cooking skills required, just mix, pour, and bake.
Versatile Recipe – Easily adaptable with different cheeses, toppings, and mix-ins.

Ingredient Breakdown

Here’s how each ingredient contributes to this satisfying dish:

Ground Beef (1 pound) – The heart of the pie. Provides protein and the savory, juicy base for that true cheeseburger flavor.
Onion (1 small, chopped) – Adds sweetness and depth, balancing the richness of the beef.
Salt (½ tsp) & Black Pepper (¼ tsp) – Simple seasonings that enhance and round out the flavors.
Worcestershire Sauce (1 tbsp) – Infuses the beef with smoky, savory undertones that mimic a grilled burger.
Ketchup (1 tbsp) – Adds tang and a hint of sweetness, just like a cheeseburger condiment.
Cheddar Cheese (1 cup, shredded) – Melts into a gooey layer over the beef, bringing sharp, creamy flavor.
Bisquick Mix (½ cup) – Creates the easy, no-fuss crust that holds everything together.
Milk (½ cup) – Combines with the Bisquick and eggs to make a smooth, pourable batter.
Eggs (2 large) – Bind the batter and help create a light, custardy texture when baked.

Pro Tips for the Best Cheeseburger Pie

Drain the Beef Well – Extra grease will make the pie soggy. Be sure to drain before adding seasoning.
Use Sharp Cheddar – It gives a stronger flavor that stands out against the rich beef and Bisquick crust.
Mix the Batter Smoothly – Whisk eggs, milk, and Bisquick until lump-free for even baking.
Let It Rest Before Slicing – Allow the pie to cool for 5–10 minutes so it sets properly.
Add Toppings After Baking – A drizzle of ketchup, mustard, or pickles on top gives it true cheeseburger vibes.

Ingredient Swaps & Variations

Make this easy dinner recipe your own with these tasty twists:

Low-Carb Dinner Idea – Swap the Bisquick topping with a mixture of eggs and heavy cream for a crustless version.
Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free Bisquick or almond flour crust.
Spicy Twist – Add jalapeños or pepper jack cheese for a little heat.
Different Proteins – Try ground turkey, chicken, or sausage for a fun variation.
Loaded Cheeseburger Pie – Add, pickles, or diced tomatoes for a deluxe version.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Southern Style Cheeseburger Pie with simple sides for a complete meal:

Classic Combo – French fries or roasted potato wedges.
Healthy Pairing – A crisp green salad or steamed veggies.
Party Food Idea – Cut into squares and serve as finger food at gatherings.
Southern Side Dishes – Coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread complete the comfort food vibe.
Family Comfort Meal – Serve with iced tea or lemonade for a true Southern touch.

Make Ahead + Storage Tips

Make Ahead – Prepare the beef mixture and crust separately, then assemble just before baking.
Refrigerate – Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat – Warm slices in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes or microwave for quick meals.
Freeze for Later – Bake, cool completely, and freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in foil. Perfect for meal prep recipes.
Leftover Hacks – Crumble leftovers into a tortilla for a cheeseburger wrap, or serve over rice for a quick lunch.

Cultural or Historical Notes

Cheeseburger pie has been a Southern comfort food classic since the mid-20th century, when convenience mixes like Bisquick became pantry staples. Recipes like this became popular for busy families looking for hearty, affordable meals that could stretch ingredients. Today, this dish lives on as a nostalgic favorite that combines the all-American love of cheeseburgers with the cozy appeal of baked casseroles.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make Cheeseburger Pie ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the pie up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

2. How do I store leftovers?
Keep covered in the fridge for 3 days or freeze slices for up to 2 months.

3. Can I make this healthier?
Use lean ground beef or turkey, reduced-fat cheese, and skim milk. For low-carb, skip the Bisquick crust.

4. What substitutions work for gluten-free diets?
Use gluten-free Bisquick or swap the crust with a potato hash base.

5. Can I add toppings like a real cheeseburger?
Absolutely! Add shredded lettuce, tomatoes, or pickles just before serving for a fresh, authentic twist.

Sarah namedy