the Ultimate Homemade Cheeseburger Pie

Ingredients:

For the crust:

• 1 refrigerated pie crust (or homemade if you prefer)

For the filling:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional but adds great flavor)

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheeseburger cheese)

• ½ cup pickles, chopped (optional)

• 1 cup frozen or fresh diced tomatoes (or tomato sauce)

• 1 tablespoon ketchup (optional)

• 1 tablespoon mustard (optional)

• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional)

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or chili powder (optional for a little kick)

• 1 egg (for egg wash)

🧑‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Prep the crust:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

• Roll out your pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish. Set aside.

2. Cook the beef:

• In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef with onions and garlic until beef is browned and onions are soft.

• Drain excess fat.

• Season with salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika if using.

• Stir in diced tomatoes (or tomato sauce), ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise if using.

• Let the mixture simmer for 3-5 minutes to combine flavors.

3. Assemble the pie:

• Spread half of the beef mixture evenly in the pie crust.

• Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese on top.

• Add the remaining beef mixture.

• Sprinkle the rest of the cheese on top.

• Add chopped pickles if desired.

4. Top crust (optional):

• If you want a double-crust pie, roll out a second crust and place over the filling.

• Cut slits to vent.

• Seal edges and brush with beaten egg for a golden finish.

5. Bake:

• Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.

6. Serve:

• Let cool 5-10 minutes before slicing.

• Serve with ketchup, mustard, or your favorite burger condiments on the side.

✅ Tips:

• Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to the beef mixture for extra flavor.

• Use different cheeses like Swiss, pepper jack, or American.

• For a lower-carb version, bake the filling in a casserole dish without crust and top with cheese.