Impossible Cheeseburger Pie is a delightful fusion of classic American comfort food that revolutionizes the traditional burger experience. This innovative dish, which gained popularity in the 1970s through Bisquick’s creative recipes, transforms the familiar flavors of a cheeseburger into a hearty, satisfying pie that’s perfect for family dinners. What makes it truly “impossible” is the magical way the batter settles during baking – forming its own crust while creating distinct layers of textures and flavors.
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This recipe brilliantly combines the savory elements of ground beef, melted cheese, and aromatic onions with a simple batter that, when baked, creates a golden, fluffy top and a tender, custard-like interior. It’s a fantastic solution for busy families who crave the taste of a cheeseburger but desire something more sophisticated and easier to serve to a group. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility – it can be customized with different cheeses, vegetables, or seasonings to suit your family’s preferences.
Beyond its delicious taste, this pie represents the epitome of practical cooking. It’s a one-dish wonder that eliminates the need for multiple pans and complicated techniques. The preparation is straightforward, making it an excellent option for novice cooks or anyone looking to expand their weeknight dinner repertoire. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce children to helping in the kitchen, as the steps are simple and the results are consistently impressive.
Storage Options
- Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 3 days
- Freezer: Can be frozen for up to 2 months in an airtight container
- Reheating: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes
Imagine a dish that combines the nostalgic comfort of a classic cheeseburger with the ease of a home-cooked casserole – that’s the magic of Impossible Cheeseburger Pie. This culinary gem is more than just a recipe; it’s a delightful journey back to the heart of home cooking, popularized by Bisquick in the 1970s and still capturing hearts today.
The Essence of Comfort Cooking
Impossible Cheeseburger Pie represents the pinnacle of convenient and satisfying home cooking. It transforms simple, readily available ingredients into a mouthwatering meal that appeals to both kids and adults alike. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity – ground beef, cheese, eggs, and Bisquick mix come together to create a meal that feels both nostalgic and exciting.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are several compelling reasons to make Impossible Cheeseburger Pie a staple in your meal rotation:
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 45 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Kid-Friendly: The familiar flavors of a cheeseburger make it a hit with children.
• Pantry-Friendly: Uses basic ingredients most home cooks already have on hand.
• Versatile: Can be customized with various toppings like bacon, pickles, or additional seasonings.
A Culinary Magic Trick
What makes this pie truly “impossible” is its ability to form its own crust during baking. By mixing Bisquick, milk, and eggs, you create a batter that magically transforms into a golden, crispy crust surrounding the savory beef and cheese filling. It’s like a culinary magic trick that happens right in your oven!
Nutritional and Practical Considerations
The recipe is not just delicious but also practical. It makes a modest portion in a 9-inch pie plate, which means fewer leftovers and less food waste. The lean ground beef provides protein, while the cheese adds a rich, comforting element. You can even customize it with different cheese varieties or add vegetables for extra nutrition.
A Slice of Culinary History
Originally created by Bisquick, this recipe represents a fascinating moment in American home cooking. It embodies the 1970s trend of creating “impossibly easy” dishes that simplified meal preparation for busy families. Today, it continues to be a beloved recipe that bridges generations, offering a taste of nostalgia with modern convenience.
Whether you’re a busy parent, a cooking novice, or someone who appreciates classic comfort food, Impossible Cheeseburger Pie offers something special – a delicious, easy-to-prepare meal that brings joy to the dinner table. Check about Easy Recipes Dinner
15 Minutes Impossible Cheeseburger Pie
Equipment
- 9-inch pie plate
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Grater (for cheese)
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 cup Bisquick baking mix
- 2 cups milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Optional toppings: diced tomatoes shredded lettuce, pickle slices
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9-inch pie plate.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with chopped onion until meat is no longer pink (about 8-10 minutes).
- Drain excess fat from the meat mixture and season with salt and pepper.
- Spread the meat mixture evenly in the prepared pie plate.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the meat layer.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together Bisquick, milk, eggs, and garlic powder until well combined.
- Pour the batter evenly over the cheese and meat layers.
- Bake for 35 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
- If desired, top with traditional burger toppings like diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, or pickle slices.
Notes
Allow the pie to rest before cutting to ensure clean slices
You can substitute ground turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter version
Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties
The pie will puff up during baking but will settle as it cools
For a spicier version, add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the meat mixture
