Cheeseburger Pie Recipe: Simple Ingredients and Nutritional Benefits
Impossibly Easy Cheeseburger Pie combines the hearty flavors of a cheeseburger in a convenient pie form. It’s made with ground beef, onions, and cheddar cheese, mixed with a batter of Bisquick mix, eggs, and milk. The ingredients blend to create a savory meal that’s both simple and satisfying.
The Origin of the Recipe
Betty Crocker popularized Impossibly Easy Cheeseburger Pie in the 1970s. The recipe became a favorite due to its simplicity and the reliable results it provided home cooks. The concept capitalizes on the use of Bisquick mix to make a versatile batter that sets into a crust-like base, transforming a classic cheeseburger into a pie.
Ingredients and Substitutions
Essential Ingredients for the Classic Pie
To create an Impossibly Easy Cheeseburger Pie, you’ll need specific key ingredients. Make sure you have:
- Ground Beef: Use 1 lb of lean ground beef for optimal flavor and texture.
- Onion: Finely chop 1 small onion to mix with the ground beef.
- Cheddar Cheese: Grate 1 cup of cheddar cheese to top the pie.
- Bisquick Mix: Utilize 1/2 cup of Bisquick mix to form the pie’s crust-like base.
- Eggs: Beat 2 large eggs to incorporate into the batter.
- Milk: Measure out 1 cup of milk to blend with the eggs and Bisquick mix.
- Seasonings: Add salt and pepper to taste while browning the beef.
These ingredients create the foundation of the classic cheeseburger pie, ensuring a rich and savory dish.
Creative Substitutions for Dietary Needs
If you need to adjust for dietary requirements, consider these substitutions:
- Ground Turkey or Chicken: Replace ground beef with 1 lb of ground turkey or chicken for a lower-fat option.
- Dairy-Free Cheese: Use 1 cup of dairy-free cheddar cheese if you need a lactose-free version.
- Gluten-Free Bisquick Mix: Opt for a gluten-free Bisquick mix to maintain the recipe’s structure without gluten.
- Plant-Based Milk: Substitute 1 cup of almond milk or soy milk in place of regular milk for a dairy-free alternative.
- Egg Replacer: Use commercial egg replacers equivalent to 2 large eggs for a vegan-friendly pie.
These substitutions allow you to customize the pie while retaining its quintessential cheeseburger flavor.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Preparing the Ingredients
Gather all the necessary ingredients first. You’ll need 1 pound of ground beef, 1 chopped onion, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of Bisquick mix, 1 cup of milk, and 2 eggs. To prep the ingredients, follow these steps:
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Chop the Onion: Finely chop the onion. If desired, sauté the onion until it’s translucent for a milder flavor.
- Shred the Cheese: Shred 1 cup of cheddar cheese, or use pre-shredded cheese for convenience.
- Measure the Bisquick Mix and Milk: Measure 1/2 cup of Bisquick mix and 1 cup of milk.
- Beat the Eggs: Beat 2 eggs in a small bowl until well combined.
Your ingredients are now ready for assembly.
Baking Instructions
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Follow these steps to bake your Impossibly Easy Cheeseburger Pie:
- Combine Ingredients: Spread the cooked ground beef and chopped onion evenly in a greased 9-inch pie plate.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the beef and onion.
- Mix Batter: In a separate bowl, mix Bisquick mix, milk, and beaten eggs until smooth. Pour this mixture over the beef and cheese layers in the pie plate.
- Bake the Pie: Place the pie plate in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes, or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Let the pie cool for 5 minutes before serving. Slice into wedges and enjoy.
This method guarantees a consistently delicious Impossibly Easy Cheeseburger Pie.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Best Sides to Complement the Pie
Choosing the right sides enhances your Impossibly Easy Cheeseburger Pie experience. Consider classic, crowd-pleasing options:
- French Fries: Opt for crispy, oven-baked, or air-fried alternatives for a healthier choice.
- Garden Salad: Mix lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette to balance the pie’s richness.
- Coleslaw: Use a tangy, vinegar-based slaw to add crunch and contrast to the savory pie.
- Roasted Vegetables: Combine carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini, seasoned with olive oil and herbs for a nutritious side.
Wine and Beverage Pairings
Selecting the ideal beverage can elevate your meal. Here are some pairings to consider:
- Red Wine: A light red like Pinot Noir complements the cheeseburger pie’s flavors without overpowering them.
- Beer: A lager or light ale pairs well and adds a refreshing note to each bite.
- Iced Tea: Choose a classic unsweetened or lemon-flavored iced tea to keep the focus on the pie.
- Soda: A modest fizzy drink like cola or root beer offers a nostalgic touch that complements the dish.
These suggestions aim to create a well-rounded meal, ensuring you enjoy every aspect of your Impossibly Easy Cheeseburger Pie.
Nutritional Information
Calorie Count and Nutritional Breakdown
The Impossibly Easy Cheeseburger Pie offers a nutritional profile that includes calories, macronutrients, and micronutrients essential for your diet. A single serving, approximately one-sixth of the pie, contains around 350 calories. Here’s the breakdown of key nutrients:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 18 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 23 grams |
| Fat | 20 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 9 grams |
| Fiber | 1 gram |
| Sodium | 600 mg |
| Cholesterol | 95 mg |
| Calcium | 200 mg |
| Iron | 2 mg |
Each nutrient plays a distinct role. Protein supports muscle repair, carbohydrates provide energy, and fats are essential for various bodily functions. Fiber aids digestion, while micronutrients like calcium and iron are vital for bone health and oxygen transport.
Discussing the Health Benefits
Consuming the Impossibly Easy Cheeseburger Pie offers several health benefits. It’s a good source of protein, supporting muscle growth and repair. The dish also provides essential fats needed for hormone production and absorption of vitamins A, D, E, and K. While relatively higher in sodium, which requires moderation, it delivers a balance of carbs for energy. The inclusion of cheese offers calcium, which is crucial for bones and teeth.
If you maintain portion control and pair the pie with nutrient-rich sides like garden salad or roasted vegetables, it can contribute to a balanced diet. Make informed choices regarding portion sizes and complementary dishes to maximize its benefits.
Conclusion
The Impossibly Easy Cheeseburger Pie is a delightful dish that brings together simplicity and flavor. With its straightforward ingredients and cooking process, it’s perfect for both novice and seasoned cooks. Pairing it with sides like French fries or a fresh salad enhances the meal, while a glass of wine adds a touch of elegance.
Nutritionally, this pie offers a good balance of protein, essential fats, and calcium, making it a wholesome choice. Remember to enjoy it in moderation and complement it with nutrient-rich sides for a well-rounded diet.
Give this recipe a try and experience the ease and deliciousness of the Impossibly Easy Cheeseburger Pie.
