If you’re craving a comforting dish that delivers all the satisfying flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a hearty, sliceable form, then this Cheeseburger Pie Recipe is about to become your new weeknight hero. It’s a delightful mix of crispy hash browns, savory ground beef, melty sharp cheddar, and a touch of tangy ketchup and mustard that all come together in one incredible pie. The surprise ingredient of finely diced butternut squash adds a subtle sweetness and moisture that’s just brilliant. Whether you’re feeding the family or looking for an impressive potluck dish, this pie is an absolute crowd-pleaser that brings burgers and dinner pie to a whole new level.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Cheeseburger Pie Recipe is a breeze because it relies on simple, straightforward ingredients that each play a crucial role. From the crispy hash browns creating a perfect crust to the cheddar cheese adding melty richness, every item helps build layers of flavor and texture.
- 16-ounce bag shredded hash browns, frozen: The base that crisps up golden to hold all those cheesy, meaty flavors together.
- 1 tablespoon oil: Helps to cook and crisp the hash browns perfectly without sticking.
- 2 teaspoons salt, divided: Enhances all the individual flavors and seasons the different layers just right.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a gentle hint of spicy warmth to the whole dish.
- 1/2 cup milk: Keeps the filling creamy and moist without weighing it down.
- 1 cup (5 ounces) finely diced butternut squash: Adds a subtle sweetness and tender texture that balances the savory beef.
- 1-1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, divided: Gives that classic garlic flavor that brings everything together.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper: For an extra touch of seasoning in the filling.
- 3/4 cup (3 ounces) shredded sharp cheddar cheese: The star cheese that melts into every bite with an ideal sharpness.
- 1 lb. ground beef: The protein powerhouse responsible for the rich, meaty base.
- 1 medium onion, very finely diced: Adds sweetness and a little bit of texture to the beef layer.
- 2 tablespoons ketchup: Brings that classic burger tang and slight sweetness to the filling.
- 1 tablespoon mustard: A sharp, tangy note that cuts through the richness perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch: Ensures the filling holds together nicely and isn’t soggy.
- 1/2 cup beef broth: Adds moistness and depth of flavor to the beef mixture.
How to Make Cheeseburger Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Hash Brown Crust
Start by heating the tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the frozen hash browns with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of ground black pepper, cooking until they’re golden and crispy on the edges, about 10 to 15 minutes. This crispy crust provides a satisfying texture contrast to the creamy filling.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef Mixture
While the hash browns crisp, brown the ground beef in another skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up as it cooks. Add the finely diced onion, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and the remaining teaspoon of salt. Cook until the beef is fully browned and the onions are softened, then drain excess fat.
Step 3: Make the Filling Sauce
Lower the heat and stir in ketchup, mustard, cornstarch, beef broth, butternut squash, milk, and remaining garlic powder and pepper to the beef mixture. Simmer gently until the squash has softened and the sauce thickens slightly, about 10 minutes. This step ensures the filling is flavorful yet holds together nicely when baked.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Press the cooked hash browns firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a greased 9-inch pie dish to form a crust. Pour the beef and squash filling into the crust, spreading evenly. Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the top in one glorious layer.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop the assembled pie into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let the pie rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing to allow everything to set perfectly.
How to Serve Cheeseburger Pie Recipe
Garnishes
The perfect finishing touch for your cheeseburger pie can be a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a few slices of pickles or a drizzle of extra ketchup or mustard on top to mirror classic burger toppings.
Side Dishes
Keep the sides simple and complementary. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or a coleslaw with a zingy dressing pairs beautifully to brighten the richness of the pie. Alternatively, some roasted vegetables or baked beans bring great texture contrasts and round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions of this Cheeseburger Pie Recipe in mini ramekins, perfect for parties or bite-sized delights. You can also turn it into a layered casserole by adding extra cheese between layers or topping with a breadcrumb mix for crunch. Presentation is just another way to elevate this cozy classic.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool your leftover Cheeseburger Pie entirely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making for an easy, delicious next-day meal.
Freezing
This pie freezes beautifully! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. For the oven, cover the pie loosely with foil and warm at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes. This keeps the crust crispier than the microwave.
FAQs
Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen?
Absolutely! If you shred fresh potatoes, just make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible before cooking to achieve that crispy crust you want in the Cheeseburger Pie Recipe.
Is the butternut squash necessary?
The butternut squash adds subtle sweetness and moisture, but you can substitute with cooked carrots or even sweet potatoes if you prefer. It’s an easy way to sneak in some veggies without overpowering the classic cheeseburger taste.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The sharp cheddar and seasoning still deliver plenty of flavor and satisfaction.
How spicy is this pie?
This recipe keeps it mild and approachable with the pepper and mustard providing gentle warmth and sharpness, so it’s great for all ages and tastes.
Can this dish be doubled easily?
Yes! Simply double all the ingredients and bake in a larger dish or two standard pie pans. Just keep an eye on the baking time since larger casseroles might take a bit longer to heat through.
Final Thoughts
This Cheeseburger Pie Recipe is truly a delicious twist on two all-time favorites—comforting pie and juicy cheeseburgers. It’s a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, wrapping everyone’s favorite burger flavors into a cozy, cheesy package. Give it a try and prepare to fall in love with a new classic that your whole family will be asking for again and again.
Print
Cheeseburger Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4-6
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This savory Cheeseburger Pie combines a crispy hash brown crust with a rich, flavorful ground beef and cheddar cheese filling. It’s a comforting casserole-style dish perfect for a hearty family meal, blending the classic flavors of a cheeseburger into an easy-to-make baked pie.
Ingredients
Crust
- 16-ounce bag shredded hash browns, frozen
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Vegetables & Cheese
- 1 cup (5 ounces) finely diced butternut squash
- 3/4 cup (3 ounces) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1–1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, divided
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Beef Mixture
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 medium onion, very finely diced
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup milk
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a mixing bowl, toss the frozen shredded hash browns with 1 tablespoon of oil, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper until evenly coated. Press the hash browns firmly into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie dish to form an even crust.
- Partially bake the crust: Place the pie dish with the hash brown crust in the oven and bake for about 15 minutes until the edges begin to crisp but the inside is still slightly soft. Remove from the oven and set aside.
- Cook the butternut squash: While the crust bakes, lightly steam or sauté the diced butternut squash until just tender, about 5 minutes. This softens the squash so it integrates well in the filling.
- Prepare the beef mixture: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the finely diced onion until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent. Drain any excess fat. Stir in 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 2 teaspoons salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, ketchup, and mustard. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with beef broth and milk, then add this mixture to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
- Combine filling ingredients: Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the cooked butternut squash, 3/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder until evenly distributed.
- Assemble the pie: Pour the beef and vegetable filling into the baked hash brown crust and spread evenly.
- Bake the assembled pie: Return the pie to the oven and bake for another 35-40 minutes until the filling is bubbly and the cheese has melted and slightly browned on top.
- Cool and serve: Let the cheeseburger pie cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps the filling set and makes serving easier.
Notes
- Using shredded hash browns directly from frozen ensures a crispier crust when baked.
- Finely dicing the butternut squash helps it blend seamlessly into the filling without overpowering the texture.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt, depending on your beef broth’s salt content.
- Letting the pie cool slightly before serving allows the filling to firm up and prevents it from falling apart.
- This dish can be reheated well, making it great for leftovers the next day.
