Cheeseburger Pie (Inspired by Pioneer Woman)

If you’re a fan of juicy cheeseburgers but want a comforting, no-fuss casserole-style dish that brings all the flavors to your dinner table in one delicious pie, then this Cheeseburger Pie inspired by The Pioneer Woman is exactly what you need. This hearty, family-friendly recipe combines ground beef, onions, cheddar cheese, and a buttery cracker crust to deliver a satisfying meal that’s both nostalgic and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re feeding hungry kids after school or looking for a quick weeknight dinner idea, this cheesy, savory pie hits all the right notes — and it’s guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen.

The History

The concept of a “cheeseburger pie” has roots deeply embedded in American comfort food culture, particularly from the mid-20th century when home cooks began experimenting with ways to reimagine classic diner favorites into oven-baked casseroles. Dishes like tuna noodle casserole, shepherd’s pie, and tamale pie paved the way for creative reinterpretations of familiar meals. The Cheeseburger Pie, as popularized by celebrity chef and Food Network star Ree Drummond — better known as The Pioneer Woman — took this tradition and elevated it with bold flavors, simple ingredients, and a homestyle presentation that resonates with fans across the country.

Ree Drummond first shared her version of this beloved recipe on her blog and television show, showcasing her signature approach: rustic, flavorful, and unapologetically indulgent. Her inspiration likely came from the classic “hamburger pie” recipes found in vintage community cookbooks, which used ground beef, vegetables, and sometimes a potato topping. By adding a buttery cracker crust and a generous layer of melted cheddar cheese, she transformed an old-school casserole into a modern comfort food phenomenon. Since then, thousands of home cooks have adapted and shared their own twists, making this dish a timeless favorite across blogs, Pinterest boards, and family dinner tables.

Ingredients Breakdown

One of the reasons this Cheeseburger Pie is so beloved is its simplicity. Every ingredient serves a purpose, contributing to the rich, savory flavor and satisfying texture that defines the dish. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

Ground Beef: The star of the filling, 80/20 ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat) is ideal for maximum flavor and juiciness. It provides that authentic burger taste and holds together well during baking.
Saltine Crackers: Crushed saltines form the base of the crust, offering a slightly salty, crunchy foundation that mimics the texture of a toasted bun while absorbing the savory juices from the beef.
Butter: Melted butter binds the cracker crumbs together and adds richness, helping the crust crisp up beautifully in the oven.
Yellow Onion: Finely diced onion adds sweetness and depth when sautéed with the beef, enhancing the overall umami profile.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives the filling a warm, aromatic kick that elevates the entire dish.
Tomato Paste: A small amount thickens the mixture and contributes a tangy-sweet tomato essence reminiscent of ketchup without making the pie soggy.
Worcestershire Sauce: This umami-rich condiment deepens the meaty flavor and adds complexity, much like the secret sauce on a gourmet burger.
Milk: Used to moisten the filling slightly and create a creamy consistency, especially important before adding the eggs.
Eggs: These act as a binder, helping the filling set during baking and giving the pie a firm yet tender texture.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is preferred for its bold flavor and excellent meltability. It’s layered throughout — in the filling and generously on top — for maximum cheesiness.
Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all the other flavors.
Paprika (optional): Adds a subtle smokiness and beautiful color to the top of the baked pie.

Step-by-Step Recipe

Follow these detailed steps to create a golden, bubbling Cheeseburger Pie that looks impressive and tastes even better.

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the pie bakes evenly from the moment it goes in.
Prepare the Crust: In a medium bowl, crush about 30 saltine crackers into fine crumbs (you can use a food processor or place them in a zip-top bag and roll with a rolling pin). Mix the crumbs with 4 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom and slightly up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Bake the crust for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden. Remove and let cool slightly while preparing the filling.
Cook the Beef Filling: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 1.5 pounds of ground beef with 1 finely diced yellow onion. Break the meat apart with a spoon and cook until browned and the onions are translucent, about 8–10 minutes. Drain excess grease if necessary (though some fat helps flavor).
Add Aromatics and Seasonings: Stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Then mix in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
Incorporate Milk and Eggs: Remove the skillet from heat. Gradually stir in 1/2 cup of milk, then beat in 2 large eggs until fully combined. This mixture will help bind the filling and give it a custard-like texture when baked.
Add Cheese: Stir in 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, reserving another 1/2 cup for topping. Mix well so the cheese begins to melt into the warm beef.
Assemble the Pie: Pour the beef and cheese mixture into the pre-baked cracker crust, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the top. For extra appeal, dust lightly with paprika or a pinch of garlic powder.
Bake the Pie: Place the pie dish on a baking sheet (to catch any potential spills) and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is bubbly and golden. A knife inserted near the center should come out clean.
Cool Slightly: Allow the pie to rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This helps it hold its shape and makes serving easier.
Serve Warm: Cut into wedges and serve hot, ideally with a side of pickles, lettuce, or even a dollop of ketchup or mustard on top for that true burger experience.

Tips

Use Full-Fat Ingredients: For the richest flavor, opt for full-fat cheddar and whole milk. Low-fat versions may result in a drier, less creamy pie.
Don’t Skip the Crust Pre-Bake: Par-baking the cracker crust prevents sogginess and ensures a crisp, sturdy base.
Drain Grease Well: While some fat is good, too much can make the filling oily. Drain excess grease after browning the beef, but leave about a teaspoon for flavor.
Let It Rest: Allowing the pie to cool slightly after baking helps the custard set and prevents it from falling apart when sliced.
Make Ahead Friendly: Assemble the pie up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Add 5–10 minutes to the baking time if starting cold.
Freezer Option: This pie freezes well either before or after baking. Wrap tightly in plastic and foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating at 350°F.
Sharp Cheese Matters: Use aged or sharp cheddar for a more pronounced flavor. Avoid pre-shredded cheese if possible, as it contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting.

Variations and Customizations

The beauty of this Cheeseburger Pie lies in its versatility. Feel free to personalize it to suit your tastes or dietary needs:

Bacon Lover’s Version: Add 6 strips of cooked, crumbled bacon to the beef mixture for a smoky, indulgent twist.
Loaded Cheeseburger Style: Mix in diced dill pickles, chopped tomatoes, and a splash of yellow mustard for that classic “everything-on-it” burger vibe.
Spicy Kick: Add 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder, a dash of cayenne, or diced jalapeños to the filling for heat.
Different Crusts: Swap saltines for Ritz crackers, buttery breadcrumbs, or even crushed tater tots for a crispy, potato-based crust.
Veggie-Packed: Add finely diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or shredded carrots to the beef mixture for added nutrition and texture.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free crackers (like Schär or homemade almond flour crust) and ensure Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free (Lea & Perrins is certified GF).
Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with vegan butter, cheese with dairy-free cheddar, and milk with unsweetened almond or oat milk.
Turkey or Chicken Version: Replace beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Add 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika to compensate for less natural richness.
Breakfast Cheeseburger Pie: Serve with a fried egg on top or add hash browns to the crust for a brunch-inspired twist.

Health Considerations and Nutritional Value

While undeniably delicious, this Cheeseburger Pie is a rich, high-calorie dish best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Here’s a nutritional estimate per serving (based on 6 servings):

Calories: ~450–500
Protein: ~25g (excellent source from beef and eggs)
Fat: ~30g (including 12g saturated fat)
Carbohydrates: ~20g (mostly from crackers and minimal sugar)
Fiber: ~1g
Sodium: ~600–800mg (can be reduced by using low-sodium crackers, cheese, and Worcestershire sauce)

Health Notes:

This dish is high in protein and iron, thanks to the ground beef, making it suitable for active individuals or those needing satiating meals.
The saturated fat and sodium content can be concerns for those with heart conditions or hypertension. Opting for leaner meat (90/10), reduced-fat cheese, and low-sodium ingredients can help mitigate this.
To boost fiber and nutrients, consider adding vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to the filling.
Serving with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables balances the meal and adds vitamins and antioxidants.

Ingredients

30 saltine crackers, crushed (about 2 cups)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1.5 pounds ground beef (80/20 recommended)
1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)
2 large eggs, beaten
1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Paprika, for garnish (optional)

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, combine crushed saltine crackers and melted butter. Press firmly into a 9-inch pie dish to form a crust. Bake for 8–10 minutes until golden. Set aside to cool slightly.
In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and onion until browned and onions are soft, about 8–10 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
Stir in garlic, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes more.
Remove from heat. Stir in milk, then beaten eggs, followed by 1 cup of cheddar cheese.
Pour mixture into the pre-baked crust. Top with remaining 1/2 cup cheese. Sprinkle with paprika if desired.
Bake for 25–30 minutes until center is set and top is golden and bubbly.
Let rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing and serving.

FAQ

Can I make this Cheeseburger Pie ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the entire pie (except baking) up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake as directed, adding 5–10 minutes to the cook time.

Can I freeze Cheeseburger Pie?
Absolutely. Freeze unbaked or baked pie for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat at 350°F until warmed through (about 20–30 minutes).

Why did my pie turn out soggy?
This usually happens if the beef wasn’t drained well or if the crust wasn’t pre-baked. Make sure to drain excess grease and always par-bake the crust.

Can I use a different meat?
Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, pork, or plant-based beef alternatives work well. Adjust seasoning accordingly.

What can I serve with Cheeseburger Pie?
Try a side of coleslaw, roasted vegetables, corn on the cob, green salad, or even tater tots for a fun twist.

Can I make mini versions?
Definitely! Use muffin tins to make individual portions. Line each cup with cracker crust, fill, and bake for 18–22 minutes.

Summary

This Cheeseburger Pie, inspired by The Pioneer Woman, is a decadent, flavorful mashup of a classic burger and a comforting casserole, featuring a buttery cracker crust, savory seasoned beef, and layers of melted cheddar cheese. Easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, it’s a hearty dish that delivers big on taste and nostalgia in every bite.