If you’re craving something that combines all the nostalgic flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the comforting warmth of a homemade casserole, the Cheeseburger Pie with Butternut Squash and Cheddar Recipe is your new best friend. This dish cleverly blends juicy ground beef, sharp cheddar cheese, and the subtle sweetness of butternut squash nestled in a golden hash brown crust. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or when you want to impress friends with something both hearty and a little unexpected. Trust me, once you try this pie, it’ll quickly become a staple in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is wonderfully simple but packed with ingredients that each have an important role, from texture to flavor to that gorgeous color contrast. Every item contributes to the perfect balance between rich, savory, and subtly sweet, making this pie irresistible.
- 16-ounce bag shredded hash browns, frozen: Creates a crispy, golden crust that holds everything together beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon oil: Helps crisp the hash browns perfectly without burning.
- 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Essential seasoning to bring out the natural flavors.
- ½ cup milk: Adds creaminess and moisture, helping the squash and hash browns meld.
- 1 cup finely diced butternut squash: Adds a subtle sweetness and vibrant orange color that contrasts the savory beef.
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder and ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: Layers extra flavor into the squash and milk mixture.
- ¾ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty, it adds that classic cheeseburger bite.
- 1 medium onion, very finely diced: Provides sweetness and depth to the beef filling.
- 1 lb. ground beef: The hearty, flavorful backbone of this dish.
- 1 teaspoon salt and 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Season the beef perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons ketchup: Adds tangy sweetness synonymous with cheeseburgers.
- 1 tablespoon mustard: Brings that signature sharp burger bite.
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the savory beef sauce for a luscious texture.
- ½ cup beef broth: Gives depth and moisture to the filling, keeping it juicy.
How to Make Cheeseburger Pie with Butternut Squash and Cheddar Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Hash Brown Crust
Start by heating the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the frozen hash browns seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until they become golden brown and slightly crispy. This will form the delicious crust, so don’t rush this step! Once browned, press the hash browns firmly into the bottom of a greased pie dish to create an even layer. This crust not only holds the pie together but adds a fantastic crunch with every bite.
Step 2: Cook the Butternut Squash
In a small saucepan, combine the diced butternut squash with milk, garlic powder, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Simmer gently until the squash softens and the mixture thickens just a little. This subtly sweet and creamy blend gives the pie a gorgeous color and balance against the savory beef, making it unique and comforting.
Step 3: Prepare the Beef Mixture
While the squash cooks, heat a skillet over medium heat and sauté the finely diced onion until translucent and fragrant. Add the ground beef, cooking and breaking it apart with a spatula until it’s browned and no longer pink. Season with salt, garlic powder, ketchup, and mustard, stirring to combine. Sprinkle the cornstarch evenly and pour in the beef broth, simmering until the sauce thickens slightly. This step ensures the filling is juicy but not watery, just like the perfect cheeseburger filling.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Spread the butternut squash mixture evenly over the hash brown crust. Next, layer the savory beef mixture on top, distributing it with care. Finally, sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese over everything, making sure every corner gets some cheesy goodness. The layering creates a satisfying contrast of flavors and textures that will make your taste buds dance.
Step 5: Bake Until Melty and Golden
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the assembled pie for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden brown. Let the pie rest for a few minutes before slicing so the layers set nicely. Your cozy, delicious cheeseburger pie is now ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Cheeseburger Pie with Butternut Squash and Cheddar Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra pop of freshness and color, sprinkle chopped green onions or fresh parsley on top just before serving. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a few pickles on the side to mimic those classic burger toppings. These little touches really elevate the flavors and add brightness to the rich, cheesy pie.
Side Dishes
This pie is quite hearty, but it pairs beautifully with crisp salads or steamed green vegetables like broccoli or green beans. A simple garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness, while roasted carrots or asparagus add an elegant touch without overpowering the dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual family gathering, slice the pie into squares and serve on colorful plates with a side of ketchup or your favorite burger sauce. If you’re aiming to impress guests, add a small ramekin of homemade pickles or caramelized onions next to each slice. You can even serve mini versions in muffin tins for fun, bite-sized cheeseburger pie muffins that everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld nicely overnight, making it even tastier the next day. Just be sure to cool the pie completely before refrigerating to keep your crust from becoming soggy.
Freezing
If you want to keep this delicious Cheeseburger Pie with Butternut Squash and Cheddar Recipe on hand, it’s freezer-friendly! Wrap the cooled, unbaked pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Reheating
Reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through and the crust is crisp again. Avoid microwaving to maintain that glorious crispy crust and melty cheese texture. If you’re in a rush, a toaster oven works well to bring back that freshly baked feeling.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of squash in the recipe?
Absolutely! While butternut squash offers a natural sweetness and beautiful color, delicata or acorn squash can be good substitutes. Just adjust cooking times to ensure the squash is tender and blends well with the other ingredients.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can swap the ground beef for a plant-based alternative or cooked lentils for a hearty vegetarian version. You’ll want to ensure the seasoning and sauce are adjusted to maintain that cheeseburger flavor profile.
Can I use fresh hash browns instead of frozen?
Freshly shredded potatoes can work too, but you should squeeze out any excess moisture before cooking to prevent a soggy crust. The frozen ones are convenient and produce a consistently crispy base.
What cheese works best if I don’t have sharp cheddar?
A good-quality medium cheddar works fine, but you could also try a combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack for a milder, creamier taste. Just make sure the cheese melts well to get that gooey topping we all love.
Can I add other burger toppings inside the pie?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in diced pickles, sautéed mushrooms, or even some crispy bacon bits before baking. Just remember to keep the balance so the butternut squash and cheese aren’t overwhelmed.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Cheeseburger Pie with Butternut Squash and Cheddar Recipe that makes it feel like a warm hug in food form. It’s comforting without being heavy, flavorful yet familiar, and perfectly crafted for any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and see how it becomes your own favorite way to enjoy all the best parts of a cheeseburger in one delicious pie. Happy cooking!
