Description
Bacon Cheeseburger Pie Recipe
Ingredients:
1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
500g ground beef
1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
4 slices cooked crispy bacon, crumbled
2 eggs
1/2 cup milk
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Cook ground beef with onions and garlic powder until browned; season with salt and pepper. Drain any excess fat.
3. Place the pie crust in a baking dish and fill with the beef mixture.
4. In a bowl, whisk together eggs and milk, then pour over the beef.
5. Sprinkle cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon on top.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the pie is set and the cheese is golden.
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Base: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). While it heats, press your pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish, crimping the edges. For a crispier crust, you can blind-bake it for 5-7 minutes first.
2. Cook the Filling: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion. Break the beef into small crumbles as it cooks. Once browned, drain the excess fat thoroughly. Stir in garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Assemble the Pie: Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly into the pie crust. In a separate bowl, vigorously whisk the eggs and milk until fully combined. Slowly pour this custard mixture over the beef, allowing it to seep into the gaps.
4. Add Toppings & Bake: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, followed by the crumbled bacon. Place the pie on a baking sheet (to catch any drips) and bake for 30-35 minutes. The pie is done when the center is set and the top is bubbly and golden brown.
5. Rest and Serve: Remove the pie from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. This allows the filling to firm up, making it easier to slice neatly.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty pie is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs perfectly with lighter sides. Consider serving it with a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, classic dill pickle spears, or simple steamed green beans. For a true diner-style experience, add a side of oven-baked fries or sweet potato wedges. A dollop of burger sauce, ketchup, or creamy ranch dressing on the side is always a hit.
How-to Summary
Brown seasoned beef and onions, place in a pie crust. Whisk eggs and milk into a custard and pour over the beef. Top with cheese and bacon, then bake at 180°C (350°F) for 30-35 minutes until golden and set. Let rest before slicing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the pie completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
What can I use instead of a pie crust? For a low-carb option, use a crust made from shredded cauliflower or almond flour. Alternatively, you can make it crustless by simply greasing the pie dish well.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave or the entire pie in a 160°C (325°F) oven until warmed through.
Can I use different cheeses? Absolutely. Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Colby blend work wonderfully. A small amount of smoked gouda can add a fantastic depth of flavor.
My filling is watery. What happened? This is usually due to not draining the cooked beef thoroughly enough, or from vegetables (like tomatoes) releasing moisture. Ensure all excess fat is drained after browning the meat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Draining the Fat: Skipping this step leads to a greasy, soggy pie.
- Overfilling the Crust: Leave a small gap at the top to prevent the egg custard from overflowing during baking.
- Skipping the Rest Time: Cutting into the pie immediately will cause it to fall apart. Letting it rest is crucial for clean slices.
- Using Raw Bacon: Always cook and crumble the bacon before adding it to the top, as it won’t crisp properly in the baking time.
Conclusion
This Bacon Cheeseburger Pie is the ultimate comfort food hack, delivering all the beloved flavors of a classic burger in an easy, shareable format. It’s forgiving for weeknight cooks and impressive enough for casual gatherings. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll achieve a golden, savory pie with a perfectly set filling every time. Give it a try—it’s sure to become a family favorite.