Pizza Burger Pie

Pizza Burger Pie: The Ultimate Fusion of Pizza and Burger Flavors

Are you ready to experience a culinary delight that combines the best of two iconic comfort foods? The Pizza Burger Pie takes your favorite burger flavors—savory ground beef, tender onions, melty cheese—and merges them with the golden, fluffy goodness of a Bisquick™️ crust, reminiscent of pizza. This dish is more than just a pie; it’s an experience. From the first bite, you’ll be captivated by the contrast of textures: the tender, juicy beef filling, the slightly crisp yet soft crust, and the gooey cheese that binds everything together.

Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner, preparing a dish for a potluck, or looking for a comforting weeknight meal, this pie fits the bill. It’s straightforward to prepare, versatile, and customizable. Every component—from the beef to the Bisquick™️ topping—plays a crucial role in creating a flavor profile that is both hearty and satisfying.

Why This Recipe is Unforgettable

• Comfort-Food Fusion: Combines savory burger flavors with a pizza-like topping for a unique culinary experience.
• Quick & Easy: Minimal ingredients and simple preparation make it accessible to any cook.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by children and adults alike, perfect for gatherings and weeknight meals.
• Versatile: Allows endless customization with toppings, cheeses, and spices.
• Hearty & Filling: Packed with protein, cheese, and flavorful batter, it’s satisfying as a main course.

Ingredients & Their Role in the Recipe

• 1 lb Lean Ground Beef (at least 80% lean): Forms the savory base of the pie. Lean beef ensures richness and avoids excess grease while providing the familiar burger flavor.
• 1 large Onion, chopped (about 1 cup): Adds natural sweetness and moisture, balancing the savory beef and enhancing the overall flavor depth.
• ½ teaspoon Salt: Essential for amplifying flavors and ensuring the filling doesn’t taste flat. Salt interacts with the natural flavors of beef and onions to create a more complex taste.
• 1 cup (4 oz) Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Provides creamy, melty goodness that binds the beef and Bisquick™️ layers. Cheddar is sharp enough to contrast the sweet onions while complementing the beef.
• ½ cup Original Bisquick™️ Mix: Creates a soft, golden crust that covers the filling. Bisquick™️ ensures a fluffy texture and quick preparation.
• 1 cup Milk: Moisturizes the Bisquick™️ batter, keeping the crust tender while allowing it to set properly in the oven.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Pie Plate

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Use an ungreased 9-inch pie plate. Preheating the oven ensures even cooking and allows the Bisquick™️ batter to rise properly, forming a light, fluffy crust. The ungreased plate is important because the natural fats in the beef and cheese will prevent sticking while still allowing a golden bottom.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef and Onion (10–12 minutes)

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, combine the ground beef and chopped onion. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking. Cook until the beef is fully browned and the onions are translucent and slightly caramelized. The onions’ natural sugars will enhance the flavor of the beef, providing a subtle sweetness that balances the savory components.

Step 3: Drain Excess Fat

Once the beef and onions are cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Drain any excess fat using a colander or paper towels. This step is crucial; too much grease can make the pie soggy and prevent the Bisquick™️ topping from cooking evenly. Properly drained beef ensures a stable filling and a light, fluffy crust.

Step 4: Season and Spread the Filling

Add ½ teaspoon of salt to the beef mixture and stir thoroughly. Spread the mixture evenly into the bottom of the ungreased pie plate. Even spreading is key to ensuring each slice has a balanced amount of beef and onions, creating consistent flavor in every bite.

Step 5: Add Cheese (1 minute)

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef and onion mixture. This layer will melt during baking, binding the filling and topping together, and providing a creamy, gooey contrast to the savory beef.

Step 6: Prepare the Bisquick™️ Batter (2–3 minutes)

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together ½ cup of Bisquick™️ mix and 1 cup of milk until smooth. The batter should be pourable but not runny. Avoid overmixing; overworked batter can result in a dense, tough crust. This simple mixture will rise in the oven to form a soft, golden, cake-like layer that perfectly complements the savory filling.

Step 7: Pour Batter Over the Filling

Pour the prepared Bisquick™️ batter evenly over the beef, onions, and cheese layer. Use a spatula to gently spread it to the edges of the pie plate. This ensures full coverage and even cooking, preventing gaps where the crust may be too thin or thick.

Step 8: Bake the Pie (25–30 minutes)

Place the pie in the preheated oven. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown. Avoid opening the oven frequently, as sudden temperature changes can affect the rise and texture of the crust. The combination of melted cheese and fluffy Bisquick™️ topping creates a visually appealing, golden pie that’s ready to serve.

Step 9: Cool and Slice (5–10 minutes)

After removing the pie from the oven, allow it to cool for 5–10 minutes. This resting period lets the layers set, making it easier to cut neat wedges. Serve warm to enjoy the gooey cheese, savory beef, and fluffy crust at their best.

Pro Tips for Perfect Pizza Burger Pie

• Even Layering: Spread beef and onions evenly to ensure each slice has a balanced taste.
• Cheese Variations: Use a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack for a richer flavor and extra gooeyness.
• Optional Vegetables: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or jalapeños to the filling for additional texture and flavor.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing Bisquick™️ batter can lead to a tough crust instead of a light, fluffy one.
• Rest Before Serving: Allowing the pie to rest ensures clean slices and prevents filling from spilling out.
• Use Lean Beef: Prevents excess grease and keeps the pie from becoming soggy.
• Optional Sauce: Drizzle ketchup, pizza sauce, or mustard before serving for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Pair with French fries, potato wedges, or sweet potato fries for a complete comfort-food experience.
• Top with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for color and freshness.
• Slice into small wedges for parties, game nights, or potlucks for easy serving.
• Add a dollop of sour cream or guacamole for a modern twist.

Storage & Reheating Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes to refresh the crust.
• Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in a skillet for a crispier crust if preferred over microwave or oven reheating.

Creative Variations

• Spicy Pizza Burger Pie: Add diced jalapeños or chili flakes to the beef mixture for heat.
• Vegetable-Loaded: Incorporate mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and texture.
• Cheesy Overload: Mix different cheeses—cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack—for a gooey, melty topping.
• Mini Individual Pies: Bake in muffin tins for single-serving pies, ideal for parties or lunchboxes.
• Gourmet Upgrade: Add caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, or a sprinkle of truffle oil before baking for a restaurant-style twist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use pre-cooked ground beef?

Yes. Ensure it’s warm and evenly spread in the pie plate before adding cheese and batter. Adjust baking time slightly if needed.

Can I substitute Bisquick™️ with homemade mix?

Yes. Mix 1 part flour, 1½ tsp baking powder, and a pinch of salt for each ½ cup Bisquick™️. Adjust milk for consistency.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the pie and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Can I freeze the assembled pie before baking?

Yes. Cover tightly and freeze. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Definitely! Kids love the combination of cheese and beef, and the fluffy Bisquick™️ topping makes it fun to eat.

Conclusion – Fun, Flavorful, and Comforting

The Pizza Burger Pie is the ultimate comfort-food fusion, combining two classic favorites in one convenient, crowd-pleasing dish. With layers of savory beef, sweet tender onions, melty cheese, and a light, fluffy Bisquick™️ topping, it’s perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or a hearty weeknight meal. Its versatility, ease of preparation, and irresistible flavor make it a recipe that belongs in every home cook’s repertoire.

Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a pie that delivers all the joy of pizza and burgers in every bite. With the tips, variations, and serving suggestions provided, you can make it your own, impress guests, and create a memorable, flavor-packed experience.