A Weeknight Dinner Miracle
If you’re looking for a family-friendly, comfort-filled dinner that comes together in under an hour with pantry staples, look no further than Impossible Cheeseburger Pie. This retro classic, popularized in the 1970s by Betty Crocker, is still one of the most satisfying, budget-friendly meals you can bake on a busy weeknight. With savory ground beef, sweet sautéed onions, gooey cheddar cheese, and a magic Bisquick batter that creates its own crust as it bakes, this dish is nothing short of a miracle.
Whether you’re a parent trying to feed a picky eater, a beginner cook looking for a foolproof recipe, or just someone craving the nostalgic flavors of a cheeseburger without the grill, this Impossible Cheeseburger Pie is for you. It’s hearty, packed with protein, and endlessly customizable to suit your tastes or what you’ve got in the fridge.
Why It’s Called “Impossible” Cheeseburger Pie
The name might make you raise an eyebrow, but it’s “impossible” in the best way—impossibly easy, impossibly delicious, and impossibly fast. The magic lies in the batter: once poured over the meat and cheese, the Bisquick mixture forms a light crust during baking without needing to roll, chill, or knead any dough. You get all the structure and texture of a savory pie, with none of the hassle.
Who Will Love This Recipe?
This recipe is ideal for:
- Busy parents who need dinner on the table fast
- College students working with minimal kitchen gear
- Beginner cooks looking for an easy confidence-boosting recipe
- Retro recipe lovers and fans of vintage comfort food
- Low-fuss meal preppers who want tasty leftovers
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything required to make this delicious cheeseburger pie:
- 1 lb. lean ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- ½ teaspoon seasoned salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- A dash of Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or use ¾ cheddar and ¼ mozzarella for a fun twist)
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup Original Bisquick mix
- 2 eggs
These ingredients are probably already in your pantry or fridge, making it a great last-minute dinner option.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly spray a 9-inch pie plate with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Cook the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion for about 10 minutes, until the beef is fully browned and the onions are softened. Drain off any excess fat.
3. Season the Meat
Stir in the seasoned salt, garlic powder, and a dash of Worcestershire sauce. This seasoning combo gives the pie that iconic “cheeseburger” flavor profile.
4. Build the Pie
Spread the seasoned meat mixture evenly into your prepared pie plate.
5. Add the Cheese
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese (or the cheddar-mozzarella blend) generously over the meat layer.
6. Make the Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and Bisquick until smooth and lump-free.
7. Pour and Bake
Pour the batter evenly over the beef and cheese layers. Bake for 25 minutes, or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let it sit for 5 minutes before slicing to allow the layers to set.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
You’ll only need a few basic kitchen tools:
- 9-inch pie plate
- Skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Non-stick spray
This makes it a great choice for small kitchens or beginner cooks with minimal gear.
Recipe Tips and Variations
✦ Add More Veggies
Mix in chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or even zucchini with the beef to sneak in more veggies.
✦ Make it Spicy
Swap the seasoned salt for Cajun seasoning, or add a chopped jalapeño for a spicy kick.
✦ Cheese Swap
Try using pepper jack, Monterey Jack, or smoked gouda for a gourmet twist.
✦ Make it Bacon-y
Add crumbled cooked bacon to the meat mixture before baking for an irresistible bacon cheeseburger pie.
✦ Gluten-Free Version
Use gluten-free Bisquick for a gluten-free alternative without sacrificing flavor or texture.
✦ Dairy-Free Option
Substitute dairy-free milk, cheese, and use an egg replacer to make it dairy-free (though the texture may vary slightly).
How to Store and Reheat
Leftovers? No problem! This pie stores beautifully and reheats like a dream.
- Refrigerator: Store slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Microwave individual slices for 1–2 minutes, or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes until heated through.
Perfect for meal prep or quick lunches.
What to Serve with Impossible Cheeseburger Pie
Round out your meal with these complementary sides and drinks:
🥗 Sides
- A fresh green salad with vinaigrette
- Roasted broccoli or green beans
- Sweet potato fries or tater tots for a diner-style vibe
🥤 Drinks
- Iced tea or lemonade for a classic family dinner
- A crisp lager or amber ale for the adults
- A tall glass of cold milk—a nostalgic favorite
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can fully bake the pie and refrigerate it. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving. You can also prep the filling and batter separately, then assemble and bake fresh.
Can I double the recipe?
Definitely. For a crowd, double the ingredients and use a 9×13-inch baking dish. You may need to add 5–10 minutes to the bake time.
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely. Both are great lean alternatives. Just make sure to season generously, as these meats have a milder flavor.
Is there a low-carb version?
Yes! You can try almond flour baking mix or look for low-carb Bisquick-style mixes. Keep in mind that texture and flavor may differ slightly.
Why didn’t my pie set properly?
Make sure your oven is fully preheated, and that you drained excess fat from the meat. Also, whisk the batter thoroughly so there are no floury lumps, and bake until the center tests clean.
Final Thoughts
Impossible Cheeseburger Pie is the kind of recipe that earns a permanent spot in your rotation. It’s adaptable, kid-approved, and satisfying in every bite. From the crispy top crust to the cheesy, meaty filling, every forkful feels like a warm hug. It’s the kind of dish that brings people to the table—and keeps them coming back for seconds.
If you try this recipe, don’t forget to share it with friends and family—they’ll thank you! And if you’re loving simple, satisfying recipes like this one, subscribe to the blog for more cozy favorites, weekly meal inspiration, and time-saving kitchen tips.
Happy cooking! 🍽️
