If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that comes together quickly and pleases everyone at the table, this Easy Hamburger Pie Recipe is exactly what you need. Picture a flaky golden pie crust hugging a savory mix of seasoned ground beef, sharp cheddar cheese, tangy pickles, and classic condiments baked to perfection — it’s a nostalgic dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a weekend family gathering, this recipe brings both convenience and flavor to your kitchen without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and familiar, each bringing an essential element to the Easy Hamburger Pie Recipe. From the rich, juicy ground beef to the crispness of the pickles, every component works together to create a dish packed with flavor, texture, and color.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: Provides the hearty, meaty base that makes this pie satisfying and delicious.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the beef mixture once sautéed.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Offers gooey, melty richness with a sharp tang that contrasts beautifully with other flavors.
- 2 pie crusts (store-bought or homemade): Creates the golden, flaky casing that holds the filling together.
- 1/4 cup ketchup: Brings a touch of sweetness and classic burger flavor.
- 2 tablespoons mustard: Adds a subtle tangy kick that livens up the filling.
- 1/2 cup chopped pickles: Infuse crisp texture and a vinegary bite that cuts through the richness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Season perfectly to enhance all other flavors without overpowering.
How to Make Easy Hamburger Pie Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
To start, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the pie will bake evenly from the moment you place it inside. While the oven warms up, gather all your ingredients so you can move smoothly through the recipe without any delays.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef and Onion
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Brown it thoroughly, breaking it up with your spatula until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess fat, then add the diced onion and cook until translucent and fragrant. This step builds the savory foundation of your pie filling and balances richness with sweetness from the onions.
Step 3: Mix in the Flavor Boosters
Now, stir in the ketchup, mustard, and chopped pickles. These ingredients introduce that unmistakable hamburger flair — tangy, sweet, and a bit juicy — transforming the beef into something truly special. Season with salt and pepper, tasting as you go to find your perfect balance.
Step 4: Assemble Your Pie
Roll out one pie crust and gently lay it into a pie dish, pressing it into the edges for a secure fit. Pour in the beef mixture, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top for that golden, melty layer we all love. Cover with the second pie crust, sealing the edges by pinching them together. Don’t forget to cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape while baking.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Place your assembled pie in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The crust should turn a beautiful golden brown, and the filling will be bubbly and warm inside. Once out of the oven, let the pie cool for a few minutes before slicing to ensure clean cuts and perfectly set filling.
How to Serve Easy Hamburger Pie Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives on top adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note that brightens the dish. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of ketchup on the side complements the flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or steamed vegetables to balance out its richness. Roasted potatoes or a simple coleslaw also make excellent side choices for a complete, hearty meal that keeps everyone happy around the table.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try making mini individual pies using ramekins. This not only makes serving easier but also enhances the presentation for parties or special occasions. You can even experiment with adding sautéed mushrooms or swapping cheddar for pepper jack to customize the flavor profile.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any pie left over, store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s tightly wrapped or in an airtight container to keep the crust flaky and the filling flavorful.
Freezing
You can freeze the assembled but unbaked pie wrapped securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and then proceed with baking as usual for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.
Reheating
Reheat leftover slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. This method helps keep the crust crisp and the filling warm throughout, avoiding sogginess that sometimes happens in the microwave.
FAQs
Can I use a homemade pie crust instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! Homemade crust adds a personal touch and extra flavor. Feel free to use your favorite recipe for a buttery, flaky crust that complements the filling perfectly.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, by using gluten-free pie crusts and ensuring all condiments are gluten-free, you can enjoy this recipe without worries. Just check labels carefully to avoid hidden gluten in ingredients.
Can I substitute the pickles for something else?
Definitely! If you prefer a different flavor, chopped olives or even jalapeños can work well to give the pie a unique twist while maintaining that bit of crunch and tang.
How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?
Make sure to drain excess fat after browning the beef and use slits on the top crust for steam to escape. Baking on the middle rack of the oven can also help achieve a crispier crust.
Can this dish be made vegetarian?
Yes, you can swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils. Adjust seasoning accordingly to maintain that hearty, savory flavor everyone loves in this Easy Hamburger Pie Recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Hamburger Pie Recipe is a delightful blend of simple ingredients and comforting flavors that come together to make a memorable meal. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, it’s a reliable crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress. Give it a try and enjoy the cozy satisfaction of a homemade pie that’s every bit as tasty as your favorite burger, wrapped in golden, flaky crust.
Print
Easy Hamburger Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This easy hamburger pie is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring a savory ground beef filling with onions, pickles, and a tangy ketchup-mustard sauce, all encased in a buttery, golden pie crust topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering, it combines classic burger flavors in a hearty, baked pie form.
Ingredients
Filling
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons mustard
- 1/2 cup chopped pickles
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Crust
- 2 pie crusts (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare it for baking the pie.
- Cook the ground beef and onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned, making sure to break it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat. Then add the diced onion and sauté until the onion becomes translucent and soft.
- Combine filling ingredients: Stir in the ketchup, mustard, chopped pickles, salt, and pepper into the meat and onion mixture. Mix thoroughly so all the flavors blend together well.
- Assemble the pie: Roll out one pie crust and fit it into a pie dish. Pour the beef mixture evenly over the crust. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef filling. Cover the pie with the second crust, sealing the edges well.
- Create steam vents and bake: Cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking. Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until the crust turns golden brown and fully cooked.
- Cool and serve: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving to allow the filling to set.
Notes
- You can substitute the cheddar cheese with your favorite cheese such as mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor.
- Use homemade pie crust if you prefer a fresher, flakier texture.
- If you like a spicier pie, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or some chopped jalapeños to the filling.
- Letting the pie rest after baking helps prevent the filling from spilling out when slicing.
