If you love cheeseburgers but you’re too tired to stand over a grill tonight, this Impossible Cheeseburger Pie is about to become your new weeknight hero.
It’s everything you love about a juicy cheeseburger, seasoned beef, melty cheddar, and a savory bite, baked into one pie with a crust that forms all on its own while it cooks.
No rolling pin, no pastry dough, no fuss. You just mix a simple batter, pour it over the beef and cheese, and let your oven do the rest.
This recipe comes from a decades old classic that started showing up on the backs of Bisquick boxes, and it earned the name “impossible” because it seemed too easy to actually work.
It does work, and it’s still one of the most requested dinners in my house.
| Quick Recipe Summary | |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 45 minutes |
| Servings | 6 servings |
| Difficulty Level | Easy |
If you’re a fan of comfort food pies made the old fashioned way, you’ll probably also enjoy my Cheeseburger Pie Recipe, which uses a similar flavor profile with a slightly different method.
Why You’ll Love This Impossible Cheeseburger Pie Recipe
This recipe checks every box for a busy weeknight. It uses ingredients you probably already have on hand, and it comes together in one skillet and one pie plate.
There’s no dough to roll out and no crust to fuss over. The batter magically bakes into a soft, biscuit like crust that holds everything together.
It’s also endlessly kid friendly. Even picky eaters tend to love the cheeseburger flavors packed into every slice.
- Comes together with pantry staple ingredients
- No pie crust to make or roll out
- Ready in well under an hour
- Easily doubled for a crowd or potluck
- Reheats beautifully for next day lunches
- A guaranteed hit with kids and picky eaters
You might also enjoy: Bisquick Chicken Pot Pie Recipe
Ingredients
You only need a handful of ingredients to pull this pie together, and most of them are things you likely have in your kitchen right now.
- 1 pound ground beef, 80/20 blend
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 3/4 cup Bisquick baking mix
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 large eggs
- Cooking spray, for the pie plate
If you’re in the mood for another ground beef comfort classic, my Hamburger Pie Recipe is another one worth bookmarking.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
Nothing fancy here. A good skillet and a sturdy pie plate will get you through this entire recipe from start to finish.
- Large skillet
- 9 inch glass pie plate
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cheese grater, if shredding your own cheddar
Read Also: Broccoli Cheese Casserole Recipe
Recommended Products for This Recipe
These are a few products I personally rely on when I make this pie, and I think they genuinely make the process smoother and the results better.
1. Lodge Cast Iron Skillet
A heavy skillet browns the beef more evenly and develops better flavor than a flimsy nonstick pan.
It also holds heat well, which helps the onions soften evenly alongside the beef.
2. Pyrex 9 Inch Glass Pie Plate
A glass pie plate lets you see the crust browning on the bottom and sides, which helps you know exactly when the pie is done.
It also cleans up easily after all that melted cheese.
3. OXO Good Grips Box Grater
Freshly shredded cheddar melts smoother and tastes noticeably better than the pre-shredded bagged stuff, which is coated in anti caking agents.
A sturdy box grater makes quick work of a block of cheese.
4. Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese Block
Using an extra sharp cheddar instead of a mild one gives this pie a much bolder, more distinct cheeseburger flavor.
It’s a small swap that makes a big difference in the final bite.
5. OXO Good Grips Whisk
A sturdy whisk helps you blend the Bisquick, milk, and eggs into a smooth, lump free batter, which is key for that soft, even crust on top.
Another favorite: Taco Pie Recipe
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Impossible Cheeseburger Pie
1. Preheat the Oven and Prep Your Pie Plate
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit so it’s fully heated by the time your pie is ready to bake.
- Spray a 9 inch glass pie plate generously with cooking spray, making sure to coat the bottom and up the sides.
- Set the pie plate aside while you prepare the filling.
2. Brown the Ground Beef and Onion
- Place a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef and chopped onion.
- Cook, breaking the beef apart with a wooden spoon, for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the beef is fully browned and the onion has softened.
- Add the minced garlic during the last minute of cooking, stirring often so it doesn’t burn.
- Drain off any excess grease from the skillet and discard it.
3. Season the Beef Mixture
- Stir the salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce into the browned beef mixture.
- Mix well so the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the meat.
- Remove the skillet from the heat.
4. Layer the Beef and Cheese
- Spread the seasoned beef and onion mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared pie plate.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the beef layer.
- Set the pie plate aside while you prepare the batter.
5. Make the Batter
- In a mixing bowl, add the Bisquick baking mix, whole milk, and eggs.
- Whisk everything together until the batter is smooth and no lumps of dry mix remain.
- Avoid overmixing, since this can make the finished crust dense rather than light and fluffy.
6. Pour and Bake
- Slowly pour the batter over the beef and cheese layer in the pie plate, letting it spread evenly on its own.
- Place the pie plate in the preheated oven and bake for 28 to 32 minutes.
- The pie is done when the top is golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Serve
- Remove the pie from the oven and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing.
- This resting time helps the pie set so your slices hold together neatly.
- Slice into wedges and serve warm.
This pairs beautifully with my Burger Sauce Recipe drizzled over each slice for extra cheeseburger flavor.
Tips for The Best Impossible Cheeseburger Pie
A few small details make a big difference between a good pie and a great one. Keep these tips in mind as you cook.
- Drain the beef well so the batter doesn’t turn greasy or soggy
- Shred your own cheese block rather than using pre-shredded bags for smoother melting
- Don’t overmix the batter, or the crust can turn out dense
- Let the pie rest before slicing so it holds its shape
- Use an 80/20 ground beef blend for the best flavor without excess grease
- Check for doneness with a knife or toothpick rather than relying on time alone
Read Also: Cowboy Casserole Recipe
Serving Suggestions
This pie is hearty enough to stand on its own, but a few sides really round out the meal. Think of it as a build your own burger plate in pie form.
Classic burger toppings like diced tomato, shredded lettuce, and dill pickles make a fun garnish right on top of each slice.
- Diced tomatoes and shredded lettuce for a fresh crunch
- Dill pickle chips scattered over each slice
- A side of Sweet Potato Casserole for a touch of sweetness
- A simple green salad with vinaigrette
- Crispy oven fries or air fryer potato wedges
- Extra ketchup and mustard on the side for dipping
Variations of Impossible Cheeseburger Pie
Once you’ve made this pie the classic way, it’s fun to switch things up based on what you’re craving or what you have on hand.
- Bacon Cheeseburger Pie: stir in 1/2 cup cooked, crumbled bacon with the beef
- Spicy Jalapeno Pie: add diced jalapenos and swap in pepper jack cheese
- Mushroom Swiss Pie: saute sliced mushrooms with the onion and use Swiss cheese instead of cheddar
- BBQ Cheeseburger Pie: mix 2 tablespoons of barbecue sauce into the beef mixture
- Low Carb Version: substitute a low carb baking mix in place of the Bisquick
Another favorite: Tater Tot Casserole Recipe
Storage and Reheating
This pie holds up well in the fridge and reheats nicely, which makes it a great option for meal prep or planned leftovers.
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Freeze cooled, wrapped slices for up to 3 months
- Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 60 to 90 seconds
- Reheat larger portions in a 350 degree oven for about 15 minutes, covered with foil
- Thaw frozen slices in the refrigerator overnight before reheating
This pairs beautifully with my Mashed Potato Casserole if you’re planning ahead for a full comfort food dinner.
Nutritional Facts
Nutrition will vary slightly depending on the exact brands and cheese amounts used, but here is a general estimate per serving, based on 6 servings.
| Nutrition Per Serving | |
|---|---|
| Calories | 390 kcal |
| Protein | 24 g |
| Carbohydrates | 14 g |
| Fat | 26 g |
| Saturated Fat | 12 g |
| Sodium | 620 mg |
Read Also: Pepperoni Pizza Casserole Recipe
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
While this is a comfort food recipe, several of its core ingredients bring real nutritional value to the table.
Ground beef and eggs both offer high quality protein that supports muscle repair and helps you feel full and satisfied after a meal.
- Ground beef: a strong source of protein, iron, and vitamin B12
- Eggs: provide protein along with choline for brain health
- Cheddar cheese: contributes calcium and additional protein
- Onion: contains antioxidants and compounds linked to heart health
- Garlic: offers immune supporting properties
- Milk: adds calcium and vitamin D to the finished dish
For a lighter option, try: Classic Beef Chili Recipe
FAQs About Impossible Cheeseburger Pie
1. Why is it called Impossible Cheeseburger Pie?
It gets its name because the batter magically forms its own crust as it bakes, without any rolled out dough involved.
Home cooks in the 1970s thought this seemed nearly impossible, and the playful name stuck ever since.
2. Can I use a different type of ground meat?
Yes, ground turkey or ground chicken both work well as substitutes for the beef in this recipe.
Just keep in mind that leaner meats may need a touch of oil in the skillet to prevent sticking while browning.
3. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
You can brown the beef mixture and shred the cheese up to a day in advance and store them separately in the fridge.
Assemble and bake the pie fresh when you’re ready to eat for the best texture on the crust.
4. Why did my crust turn out dense instead of fluffy?
This usually happens when the batter is overmixed, which activates the gluten in the baking mix.
Whisk just until the ingredients are combined and stop as soon as the lumps disappear.
5. Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Absolutely, you can double all the ingredients and bake the pie in a 9 by 13 inch baking dish instead of a pie plate.
You’ll likely need to add another 10 to 15 minutes to the bake time, so check for doneness with a knife before removing it from the oven.
If you love this kind of budget friendly, ground beef comfort food, my Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes is another dinner worth adding to your rotation.
Impossible Cheeseburger Pie
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef 454g, 80/20 blend
- 1 small onion about 1/2 cup, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese 170g, shredded
- 3/4 cup Bisquick baking mix 95g
- 1 cup whole milk 240ml
- 2 large eggs
- Cooking spray for the pie plate
- Diced tomatoes
- Shredded lettuce
- Dill pickle chips
- Ketchup for dipping
- Mustard for dipping
Equipment
- Large skillet
- 9 inch Glass Pie Plate
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk A sturdy whisk is key for a lump-free batter.
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cheese grater (optional) For shredding your own cheese from a block.
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Generously spray a 9-inch glass pie plate with cooking spray, coating the bottom and sides.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion for 8-10 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon, until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Add the minced garlic during the last minute of cooking.
- Drain off any excess grease from the skillet. Stir in the salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce, mixing well to combine. Remove from heat.
- Spread the seasoned beef mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pie plate. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the Bisquick, whole milk, and eggs until smooth and no lumps remain. Be careful not to overmix.
- Slowly pour the batter over the beef and cheese in the pie plate, letting it spread evenly on its own. Bake for 28-32 minutes, until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the pie rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This helps it set so the slices hold their shape. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.
Notes
- Drain the beef well: After browning, thoroughly drain the fat to prevent the batter from becoming greasy or soggy.
- Shred your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese is coated with anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly. Shredding from a block ensures a creamy, gooey texture.
- Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing activates the gluten in the Bisquick, which can lead to a dense and tough crust. Mix just until the lumps disappear.
- Let the pie rest: Allowing the pie to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking is crucial for it to set properly, making it easier to slice and serve neat wedges.
- Use 80/20 ground beef: An 80/20 blend provides the best flavor and juiciness for this pie. Leaner meats may result in a drier texture.
- Check for doneness: Oven temperatures can vary. Use a knife or toothpick inserted in the center to ensure it comes out clean, rather than relying solely on the bake time.
- Make-Ahead: You can brown the beef mixture and shred the cheese up to a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble fresh before baking.
- Storage & Reheating: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat slices in the microwave or in the oven.
- Variation – Low Carb: For a low-carb version of this pie, substitute the Bisquick with your favorite low-carb baking mix.
Private Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Conclusion
This Impossible Cheeseburger Pie is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated.
It’s warm, cheesy, and packed with all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger, minus the bun and the grill time.
Give it a try this week and let me know how your family likes it.
I’d love to hear your favorite variation in the comments below, and if you enjoyed this recipe, please share it with a friend who needs an easy weeknight dinner idea.
Recommended:
- Taco Casserole Recipe
- Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole Recipe
- Beef Stroganoff Recipe
- Green Bean Casserole Recipe
- Corn Casserole Recipe
