One-Pan Cheeseburger Pie Dinner Recipe – Easy Family Comfort Food Idea

One-pan cheeseburger pie dinner baked golden brown in a skillet, layered with ground beef, cheese, and biscuit crust, garnished with fresh parsley.
Cheesy, savory, and hearty – one-pan cheeseburger pie dinner is the ultimate family comfort food idea! 🍔🥧✨

Engaging Opening Hook

Comfort food has a special way of bringing families together, and few dishes capture that feeling better than a hearty mashup of familiar flavors. Cheeseburger pie is exactly that—a nostalgic blend of juicy ground beef, gooey melted cheese, and a golden crust baked into one satisfying dish. It’s the kind of recipe that feels both playful and practical, combining the flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the convenience of a one-pan dinner. For busy weeknights, it’s a lifesaver: simple to prepare, easy to serve, and guaranteed to please both kids and adults. The appeal lies in its balance—savory beef filling, creamy cheese, and a crust that’s fluffy or crispy depending on how you make it. Cheeseburger pie is comfort food reimagined, a dish that’s hearty, family-friendly, and endlessly adaptable.

What is Cheeseburger Pie?

Cheeseburger pie is a savory baked dish that layers seasoned ground beef and melted cheese inside a biscuit-like or pastry crust. Unlike meatloaf, which is dense and uniform, or casseroles, which often rely on pasta or rice, cheeseburger pie focuses on recreating the flavors of a cheeseburger in pie form. The crust serves as the bun, the beef filling mimics the patty, and the cheese ties everything together. Some versions even incorporate ketchup, mustard, or pickles for authenticity. What makes it special is its versatility—you can prepare it with a flaky pastry crust for elegance, or a simple biscuit mix for ease. It’s nostalgic, reminiscent of retro recipes like the “Impossible Cheeseburger Pie” popularized in the 1970s, yet modern enough to adapt with new flavors and ingredients. Cheeseburger pie is both comforting and fun, making it a perfect family dinner or potluck dish.

History & Popularity of Cheeseburger-Inspired Dishes

The cheeseburger itself is an American classic, born in the early 20th century and quickly becoming a symbol of comfort food worldwide. Over time, its flavors inspired countless spin-offs, from casseroles to dips, pizzas, and pies. In the 1970s, retro recipes like the “Impossible Cheeseburger Pie” gained popularity, using baking mixes to simplify preparation while capturing the essence of a cheeseburger. These one-pan meals became staples in busy households, offering convenience without sacrificing flavor. Today, cheeseburger-inspired dishes remain popular, evolving with modern tastes and dietary preferences. Cheeseburger pie, in particular, has seen a resurgence as families rediscover its nostalgic charm and adaptability. Whether made with classic beef and cheddar or updated with turkey, plant-based meat, or gourmet cheeses, it continues to embody the spirit of comfort food mashups—familiar, hearty, and endlessly customizable.

Flavor Profile & Texture

Cheeseburger pie delivers a flavor profile that’s savory, hearty, and indulgent. The ground beef filling is seasoned with onions, garlic, and spices, creating a rich, meaty base. Gooey melted cheese adds creaminess and depth, while the crust provides contrast—fluffy if made with biscuit mix, or crisp and flaky if made with pastry. Together, the layers mimic the comforting taste of a cheeseburger, but in a warm, sliceable form. Texture is key: the crust offers structure, the beef is juicy and tender, and the cheese melts into every bite. Optional toppings like ketchup, mustard, or pickles can add tang and brightness, while herbs or spices elevate the flavor. The result is a dish that’s both familiar and exciting, indulgent yet approachable. Cheeseburger pie is the kind of meal that satisfies cravings, comforts the soul, and brings a smile to the table.

One-pan cheeseburger pie dinner baked golden brown in a skillet, layered with ground beef, cheese, and biscuit crust, garnished with fresh parsley.

One-Pan Cheeseburger Pie Dinner Recipe – Easy Family Comfort Food Idea

This one-pan cheeseburger pie dinner recipe is a cheesy and savory dish made with ground beef, melted cheese, and biscuit crust baked to perfection. Perfect for family dinners, weeknight meals, or a comforting twist on classic cheeseburgers.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Comfort Food, Main Dish
Cuisine American, Retro Classics
Servings 8
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Pie dish (9-inch)
  • Oven

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef (lean preferred)
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1½ cups biscuit mix (or pastry dough for crust)
  • 1 tbsp ketchup (optional)
  • 1 tsp mustard (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Pickles or parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Prepare Crust: Press biscuit mix or pastry dough into a greased pie dish.
  • Cook Beef: In a skillet, brown ground beef with onion and garlic. Drain excess fat.
  • Layer Filling: Spread beef mixture evenly in crust. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar.
  • Mix Custard: Whisk eggs, milk, ketchup, mustard, salt, and pepper. Pour over beef and cheese.
  • Bake: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes until set and golden.
  • Cool & Serve: Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with pickles or parsley.

Notes

  • Drain Beef Well: Prevents soggy crust.
  • Cheese Options: Try Swiss, provolone, or pepper jack for variety.
  • Make Ahead: Assemble and refrigerate; bake just before serving.
  • Freezer-Friendly: Freeze baked slices and reheat in oven.
  • Serving Idea: Pair with salad or fries for a diner-style meal.
Keyword Cheeseburger pie, family comfort food, ground beef casserole, one-pan dinner