Name: Impossible Cheeseburger Pie: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6-8 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 medium onion, chopped; 1 green bell pepper, chopped; 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup; 1 cup milk; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup all-purpose baking mix (like Bisquick); 2 large eggs; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; Salt to taste; Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, pickles, ketchup, mustard

Impossible Cheeseburger Pie: Just the name alone conjures up images of cheesy, beefy goodness, doesn’t it? Get ready to experience a weeknight dinner miracle that will have your family begging for seconds! This isn’t just any pie; it’s a savory, comforting dish that perfectly captures the essence of a classic cheeseburger, all baked into a single, easy-to-make masterpiece.

While the exact origins of the Impossible Cheeseburger Pie are shrouded in a bit of mystery, its popularity exploded in the mid-20th century, coinciding with the rise of convenience cooking. It’s a testament to the ingenuity of home cooks who sought to create delicious, satisfying meals with minimal fuss. Think of it as a culinary hug, a dish that evokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia with every bite.

What makes this pie so irresistible? It’s the delightful combination of textures and flavors. The savory ground beef, melty cheese, and tangy tomato sauce create a symphony of taste that’s both familiar and exciting. The “impossible” part comes from the biscuit mix base, which bakes up into a light and fluffy crust, perfectly complementing the rich filling. Plus, let’s be honest, who can resist the allure of a cheeseburger in pie form? It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. So, let’s dive in and create this comforting classic together!

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
1 cup milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup all-purpose baking mix (like Bisquick)
2 large eggs
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste
Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, pickles, ketchup, mustard

Preparing the Meat Mixture:

First, we need to brown the ground beef. Grab a large skillet and place it over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and no longer pink. Drain off any excess grease. Nobody wants a greasy pie!
Now, add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. The aroma at this point is already making my mouth water!
Stir in the condensed cream of mushroom soup. Make sure it’s well combined with the beef and vegetables. This will act as a binder and add a lovely creamy texture to our pie.
Season the mixture with garlic powder, black pepper, and salt to taste. Remember, you can always add more seasoning later, so start with a little and adjust as needed. Give it a good stir to distribute the flavors evenly.

Preparing the “Impossible” Crust:

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, baking mix, and eggs until smooth. Make sure there are no lumps! A smooth batter is key to a good crust.
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. This will add a cheesy flavor and help the crust bind together. I love cheddar, but you could experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Colby Jack if you’re feeling adventurous.

Assembling and Baking the Pie:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s important to have the oven preheated so the pie cooks evenly.
Grease a 9-inch pie plate. This will prevent the pie from sticking and make it easier to remove after baking. You can use cooking spray or a little bit of butter.
Pour the meat mixture into the prepared pie plate, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
Pour the cheese and baking mix mixture over the meat mixture. Try to distribute it evenly so that the crust covers the entire surface.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. Keep an eye on it, as oven temperatures can vary.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the pie to set up a bit and make it easier to cut.

Serving Suggestions:

This Impossible Cheeseburger Pie is delicious on its own, but you can also add your favorite cheeseburger toppings! Here are a few ideas:

Shredded lettuce
Diced tomatoes
Pickle slices
Ketchup
Mustard
Chopped onions

Feel free to get creative and add whatever toppings you like! You can even serve it with a side of french fries or onion rings for a complete meal.

Tips and Variations:

Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meat mixture for a little heat.
Vegetarian option: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or a can of drained and rinsed lentils.
Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the meat mixture, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots.
Cheese variations: Experiment with different types of cheese in the crust, such as Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or pepper jack.
Make it ahead: You can assemble the pie ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Freezing instructions: Let the pie cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Detailed Explanation of Ingredients:

Ground Beef:

The star of our cheeseburger pie! I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor and texture. The fat content adds richness and keeps the pie moist. If you prefer a leaner option, you can use 90/10 ground beef, but you may need to add a little extra oil to the skillet to prevent it from drying out.

Onion and Green Bell Pepper:

These vegetables add flavor and texture to the meat mixture. I like to use yellow or white onion, but you can use red onion if you prefer. Green bell pepper is a classic cheeseburger topping, but you can use other colors of bell pepper if you like. Just make sure to chop them finely so they cook evenly.

Cream of Mushroom Soup:

This acts as a binder and adds a creamy texture to the pie. You can use other types of condensed soup, such as cream of chicken or cream of celery, if you prefer. However, I find that cream of mushroom soup complements the beef flavor the best.

Milk:

Milk is used to thin out the baking mix and egg mixture, creating a smooth and pourable batter. You can use any type of milk you like, such as whole milk, 2% milk, or skim milk. You can even use non-dairy milk, such as almond milk or soy milk, if you’re dairy-free.

Shredded Cheddar Cheese:

Cheddar cheese adds a cheesy flavor and helps the crust bind together. I recommend using sharp cheddar cheese for the most flavor, but you can use mild or medium cheddar cheese if you prefer. You can also use other types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or pepper jack.

All-Purpose Baking Mix (like Bisquick):

This is the key ingredient in the “impossible” crust. It creates a light and fluffy crust without any kneading or rolling. Make sure to use a good quality baking mix for the best results. If you don’t have baking mix, you can make your own by combining flour, baking powder, salt, and shortening.

Eggs:

Eggs help to bind the crust together and add richness. I recommend using large eggs for the best results. Make sure to whisk the eggs well before adding them to the baking mix mixture.

Garlic Powder and Black Pepper:

These seasonings add flavor to the meat mixture. You can adjust the amount of seasoning to your liking. You can also add other seasonings, such as onion powder, paprika, or chili powder.

Salt:

Salt is used to enhance the flavors of all the ingredients. Make sure to season the meat mixture to taste. You can also add a pinch of salt to the baking mix mixture.

Optional Toppings:

The possibilities are endless! Get creative and add your favorite cheeseburger toppings. Some popular options include shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, pickle slices, ketchup, mustard, and chopped onions.

Troubleshooting:

Crust is not browning:

If the crust is not browning, you can try broiling it for a minute or two at the end of the baking time. Just be careful not to burn it!

Filling is too watery:

If the filling is too watery, you can try adding a tablespoon of cornstarch to the meat mixture. This will help to thicken it up.

Pie is sticking to the plate:

Make sure to grease the pie plate well before adding the filling. You can also line the pie plate with parchment paper for easy removal.

Pie is not setting up:

If the pie is not setting up, you may need to bake it for a few extra minutes. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Nutritional Information (approximate):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

Calories: 400-500 per serving
Fat: 25-35 grams
Protein: 20-30 grams
Carbohydrates: 20-30 grams

Conclusion:

This Impossible Cheeseburger Pie is truly a game-changer, and I wholeheartedly believe it deserves a spot in your regular recipe rotation. Why? Because it delivers all the comforting, savory goodness of a classic cheeseburger in a surprisingly easy and satisfying package. Forget complicated crusts and fussy fillings; this recipe is all about simplicity and maximum flavor impact. The creamy, cheesy base, studded with seasoned ground beef and your favorite burger toppings, bakes into a golden-brown masterpiece that’s guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters. It’s the perfect weeknight meal solution, a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, or even a fun and unexpected brunch option.

But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! Feel free to get creative with your toppings. I’ve suggested the basics diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and a drizzle of your favorite burger sauce but the possibilities are endless. Consider adding crispy bacon crumbles for an extra layer of smoky flavor, or sautéed mushrooms and onions for a more sophisticated twist. If you’re a fan of spice, a sprinkle of jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce will kick things up a notch. For a vegetarian version, simply substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles and ensure your cheese is vegetarian-friendly. You could even add some chopped bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrients and texture.

Serving suggestions are just as flexible. A simple side salad is always a great accompaniment, providing a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pie. Coleslaw, potato salad, or even a bowl of crispy french fries would also be fantastic choices. For a lighter meal, serve smaller slices as appetizers or snacks. And don’t forget the condiments! Ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, and your favorite burger sauce should all be on hand for dipping and drizzling.

I’ve made this Impossible Cheeseburger Pie countless times, and it’s always a hit. It’s the kind of recipe that everyone asks for, and it’s so easy to make that you’ll be happy to share it. The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your personal preferences and dietary needs. Whether you’re feeding a family of four or a crowd of twenty, this recipe can be scaled up or down with ease.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of this Impossible Cheeseburger Pie. I promise you won’t be disappointed. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s both delicious and incredibly easy to make.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you’ve had a chance to bake it up, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. I’d love to hear about your variations, your serving suggestions, and any tips or tricks you discovered along the way. Let’s build a community of cheeseburger pie enthusiasts! Don’t forget to rate the recipe and share it with your friends and family. Happy baking! I am confident that this will become a family favorite.