Why You’ll Love This Venison Cheeseburger Pie Recipe
If you’re a fan of hearty, comforting meals, you’re going to love this Venison Cheeseburger Pie recipe. This dish combines the rich flavor of venison with the familiarity of a cheeseburger, all nestled in a flaky crust.
It’s an easy one-dish meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Not only does it satisfy your hunger, but it also warms your soul with every bite.
Plus, it’s a great way to impress friends and family with something unique. Trust me, once you try it, this pie will become a regular at your dinner table!
Ingredients of Venison Cheeseburger Pie
When it comes to whipping up something delicious and filling, this Venison Cheeseburger Pie has got your back. Imagine hearty venison mingling with gooey cheese, nestled in a flaky crust. It’s like all your favorite cheeseburger fixings came together for a cozy dinner party.
So, whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself to a comforting meal, this pie is just the ticket. Plus, it’s super easy to make, which is a big win for those of us who mightn’t be professional chefs (guilty as charged).
Here’s what you’ll need to bring this tasty pie to life:
- 1 1/2 lbs venison, chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 green pepper, chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 9 inches deep dish pie shells
- 10 – 12 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1 egg, beaten
Now, before you get started, let’s talk about some of these ingredients. Venison, for instance, is leaner than beef, which means it can cook up a bit differently. If you’re new to cooking with venison, don’t worry! Just be sure to keep an eye on the cooking time—overcooking it can lead to a dry pie, and nobody wants that.
And if you’re not a venison fan or can’t find it, ground beef or turkey can easily step in as a substitute. The ketchup adds a nice tanginess that balances everything out, while the breadcrumbs help bind the filling together.
How to Make Venison Cheeseburger Pie
Alright, let’s plunge into the delicious world of making Venison Cheeseburger Pie. First things first, you’re going to want to get a large skillet on the stove. Start by adding 1 1/2 lbs of chopped venison along with a large chopped onion and a green pepper—both chopped, of course. You want to cook these together over medium heat until the meat is browned and the veggies are tender. It’s like a little party in your pan, and the smell will have you dreaming of cheeseburgers.
Once everything is cooked, don’t forget to drain the excess fat. We want to keep things tasty, not greasy.
Next up, let’s bring everything together. In that same skillet, add in 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper. Stir in 1/2 cup of ketchup, mixing it all up until it’s well combined. This mixture is going to be the star of your pie.
Now, grab your 9-inch deep dish pie shell and spoon this hearty filling right into it. But wait, we’re not done yet. We need to make that cheese topping. In a separate bowl, mix together 10 to 12 ounces of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1 tablespoon of milk, and 1 beaten egg. This cheesy concoction will create a delightful layer on top of the filling. Spread it evenly over the meat mixture, and you’re ready to bake.
Pop that beauty into a preheated oven at 350 degrees and let it bake for about 35 to 40 minutes. The cheese will melt and bubble, and the crust will turn a lovely golden brown. Take a moment to soak in the aroma wafting through your kitchen—pure bliss.
Once it’s done, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing into it. Trust me, this pie is going to be a hit. Your friends might think you’ve been slaving away in the kitchen for hours, but we’ll keep that little secret between us. Enjoy!
Venison Cheeseburger Pie Substitutions & Variations
There’s always room for creativity in the kitchen, especially when it comes to making Venison Cheeseburger Pie. If you don’t have venison on hand, ground beef or turkey works just as well.
I love experimenting with different cheeses, so feel free to swap sharp cheddar for pepper jack or mozzarella for a milder taste. Adding spices like garlic powder or smoked paprika can elevate the flavor too.
For a healthier twist, replace breadcrumbs with crushed cauliflower or oats. You can even toss in veggies like mushrooms or spinach for added nutrients.
The possibilities are endless, so get creative!
What to Serve with Venison Cheeseburger Pie
Serving Venison Cheeseburger Pie isn’t just about the main dish; it’s about creating a balanced meal that complements its rich flavors.
I love pairing it with a fresh green salad, drizzled with a light vinaigrette to cut through the pie’s richness. Sweet potato fries add a comforting crunch and a hint of sweetness, while pickles or coleslaw offer that perfect tangy bite.
For a drink, an ice-cold root beer or a light lager works wonders. Each of these sides elevates the experience, making it a delightful meal that everyone will enjoy.
Trust me; you won’t be disappointed!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing your Venison Cheeseburger Pie, keep in mind a few tips to enhance both flavor and texture. First, don’t skip the browning step for the venison; it adds depth.
I also recommend using fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an extra layer of flavor. If you want a bit of spice, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the meat mixture.
For a crispier crust, pre-bake the pie shell for about 5 minutes before adding the filling.
Finally, let the pie rest for a few minutes after baking; it makes slicing easier! Enjoy!