If there’s one dish that combines the down-home charm of Southern cooking with the all-American love for burgers, it’s the Southern Style Cheeseburger Pie. Imagine juicy ground beef, gooey melted cheese, and a buttery crust (or biscuit-style topping) all baked together in one hearty dish. It’s like biting into your favorite cheeseburger but served in warm, comforting pie form.
This recipe is a family favorite, perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or anytime you’re craving something satisfying. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and guaranteed to please both kids and adults alike.
Why This Recipe Works
All the Flavor of a Cheeseburger, None of the Mess
You get the taste of a juicy cheeseburger without firing up the grill or dealing with drippy buns.
Customizable
Add bacon, jalapeños, pickles, or different cheeses to make it your own.
Comfort in Every Bite
Between the savory beef, creamy cheese, and fluffy topping, this dish screams Southern comfort food.
One-Dish Wonder
No need for multiple pans – everything comes together in a single pie dish or skillet.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Beef Filling:
1 lb ground beef (80/20 for juiciness)
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, adds depth)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For the Pie Topping:
½ cup all-purpose flour
½ cup cornmeal (for Southern flair)
1 ½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
¾ cup buttermilk (or milk with 1 tsp vinegar)
1 egg, beaten
2 tbsp melted butter
Optional Garnishes:
Sliced pickles
Diced tomatoes
Extra shredded cheese
Crumbled bacon
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Beef Filling
In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned.
Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.
Stir in Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
Drain excess grease if necessary.
Spread the beef mixture evenly into a greased 9-inch pie dish.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the beef.
2. Make the Topping
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, combine buttermilk, egg, and melted butter.
Stir wet ingredients into the dry until just combined (don’t overmix).
3. Assemble the Pie
Pour the topping batter over the beef and cheese layer, spreading it evenly.
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until the topping is golden and cooked through.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Garnish with pickles, tomatoes, bacon, or extra cheese.
Tips + Tricks for Recipe Success
Add Heat: Mix in diced jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Make It Creamier: Stir ½ cup of cream cheese into the beef filling before baking.
Bacon Lovers: Sprinkle cooked bacon bits over the beef before adding the cheese.
Shortcut Version: Use Bisquick for the topping if you’re short on time.
Kid-Friendly: Serve with ketchup or BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.
Serving Suggestions
This Southern Cheeseburger Pie is versatile and pairs wonderfully with classic sides:
Coleslaw – crunchy and tangy for balance.
French fries or tater tots – lean into the burger vibes.
Simple green salad – lightens up the richness.
Sweet tea or lemonade – the perfect Southern beverage pairing.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F until hot, or microwave slices for quick meals.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
The Southern Style Cheeseburger Pie is more than just dinner—it’s comfort food at its finest. It’s nostalgic, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re feeding a crowd, meal-prepping for the week, or simply craving something indulgent, this recipe delivers every single time.
Think of it as the perfect fusion between a cheeseburger and a casserole, with that unmistakable Southern twist that makes it even more special.
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