Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cheesy Hamburger Pie with Cornbread Crust?
It is a hearty comfort food dish featuring a savory ground beef and cheddar cheese filling encased in a crumbly crust made from herb-seasoned stuffing mix.
What are the main ingredients needed for the crust?
The crust is made using an 8-ounce package of herb-seasoned stuffing mix, one cup of boiling water, and half a cup of melted butter.
At what temperature should the oven be preheated?
The oven should be preheated to 375°F (190°C).
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe lighter by substituting the ground beef with ground turkey.
How do I prepare the stuffing mix for the crust?
Combine the stuffing mix, boiling water, and melted butter in a large bowl and stir until well blended.
Do I use all of the stuffing mixture for the crust?
No, you should set aside 1 cup of the prepared stuffing mixture to mix into the beef filling later.
What size pie plate is recommended for this recipe?
A 10-inch pie plate is recommended to fit the crust and filling properly.
Do I need to cook the ground beef before putting it in the pie?
Yes, you must brown the ground beef in a skillet until it is no longer pink and drain the excess fat before assembly.
What kind of cheese is used in the filling?
The recipe calls for one cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
How is the meat filling bound together?
One beaten egg is mixed into the beef mixture to help bind the ingredients together.
What seasonings are added to the ground beef mixture?
The beef is seasoned with dried onion flakes, seasoning salt, dried thyme, and black pepper.
Does the filling include any sauces?
Yes, 1/4 cup of ketchup is added to the meat mixture for flavor and moisture.
How long does the pie need to bake?
Bake the pie for 20 to 30 minutes until it is heated through and the edges of the crust are golden.
Why do I need to drain the fat from the beef?
Draining the fat prevents the pie from becoming greasy and ensures the crust stays firm.
What is the best way to serve this hamburger pie?
It is best served warm, potentially with a side salad to create a complete meal.
How do I form the crust in the pie plate?
Press the stuffing mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of the pie plate.
Can I use fresh onions instead of dried onion flakes?
Yes, you can use fresh diced onions, but it is best to sauté them with the beef while browning.
Is this recipe considered a quick weeknight meal?
Yes, with a bake time of under 30 minutes and simple assembly, it is perfect for busy weeknights.
What is the texture of the crust?
The crust has a golden, crumbly texture similar to traditional cornbread or stuffing.
Can I add vegetables to the meat filling?
While not in the original recipe, adding peas, carrots, or corn would complement the flavors well.
Should I let the pie cool before slicing?
Yes, letting it cool for a few minutes helps the slices hold their shape better.
Can this recipe be prepared in advance?
You can brown the beef and prepare the stuffing in advance, but for the best crust texture, assemble and bake just before serving.
How should leftovers be stored?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
How do I reheat the hamburger pie?
Reheat individual slices in the microwave or place the pie plate back in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Is this dish spicy?
No, the dish is savory and mild, making it very family-friendly.
Can I substitute the cheddar cheese?
Yes, you can use other melting cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican blend.
What if I don't have a 10-inch pie plate?
You can use a 9x9 inch square baking dish as a substitute, though the crust thickness may vary.
Is the stuffing mix intended to be the cornbread variety?
The recipe specifies herb-seasoned stuffing, but using a cornbread-style stuffing mix provides the signature 'cornbread crust' flavor.
What happens if I forget to reserve the 1 cup of stuffing?
The meat filling may be slightly less cohesive, but the pie will still taste great.
How many ingredients are in this recipe in total?
There are 11 ingredients required for this recipe.