In the world of home - cooked meals, few dishes can match the warmth and comfort of a classic hamburger pie. This Better Homes & Gardens classic is not only a tried - and - true recipe but also a quick and easy solution for a delicious dinner that can be on the table in just an hour.
One of the greatest advantages of this hamburger pie is its reliance on pantry staples. You don't need to make a special trip to the grocery store to whip up this delightful dish. Start by gathering ground beef, which is the heart of the pie. Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium - high heat. As it cooks, break it up into small pieces with a spatula. This step is crucial as it ensures even cooking and a nice texture in the final pie.
While the beef is browning, you can prepare the other ingredients. Onions are a must - have addition. Finely chop an onion and add it to the skillet once the beef has lost its raw color. The sweet and savory flavor of the onion will complement the beef perfectly. Stir the onion and beef together, allowing the onion to soften and release its aroma. This combination of beef and onion forms the base of the hamburger pie, creating a rich and meaty filling.
Next, it's time to add some seasonings. A sprinkle of salt and pepper is a good start, but you can also get creative. Garlic powder, paprika, or a dash of Worcestershire sauce can add an extra layer of flavor. These seasonings will enhance the taste of the beef and onion mixture, making it even more delicious. Stir the seasonings well into the beef and onion, ensuring that every piece is coated.
Once the beef and onion mixture is fully cooked and seasoned, it's time to transfer it to a pie dish. A 9 - inch pie dish works well for this recipe. Spread the beef mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish, creating a solid base for the rest of the pie.
Now comes the fun part - the toppings. Mashed potatoes are a traditional and essential topping for hamburger pie. You can make your own mashed potatoes from scratch by boiling potatoes until they are tender, then mashing them with butter, milk, and a bit of salt. The creamy texture of the mashed potatoes adds a wonderful contrast to the savory beef filling. Spoon the mashed potatoes over the beef mixture in the pie dish, spreading them out to cover the beef completely.
To take the hamburger pie to the next level, top it off with shredded cheddar cheese. The sharp and tangy flavor of the cheddar cheese melts beautifully over the mashed potatoes, creating a golden, bubbly crust. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes, making sure to cover the entire surface.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pie dish in the oven and bake for about 25 - 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges of the mashed potatoes start to turn golden brown. This baking process not only melts the cheese but also allows the flavors of the beef, potatoes, and cheese to meld together, creating a harmonious and delicious dish.
When the hamburger pie is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the pie to set slightly, making it easier to slice and serve. Serve the hamburger pie hot, perhaps with a side salad or some steamed vegetables. It's a complete meal that will satisfy the whole family.
In conclusion, the hamburger pie is a timeless recipe that combines the best of comfort food with the convenience of using pantry staples. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees a delicious dinner. So, the next time you're looking for a quick and comforting meal, give this hamburger pie a try. You won't be disappointed.