Impossible Cheeseburger Pie

This Impossible Cheeseburger Pie puts a delicious plant-based spin on a beloved comfort-food favorite. A buttery homemade crust cradles a savory filling of meatless ground protein, sautéed vegetables, and melted cheddar cheese, creating all the familiar flavors of a classic cheeseburger in pie form. What makes this dish special is the creamy egg-and-milk mixture poured over the filling before baking. As it cooks, it settles throughout the pie, creating a soft, custard-like texture that binds everything together beautifully. The result is a satisfying, hearty meal that blends traditional comfort with a modern meat-free approach.

Ingredients

For the Filling

• 1 lb plant-based ground meat substitute
• 1 cup diced onion
• 1 cup diced bell pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (vegan if preferred)
• 1 teaspoon mustard
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Crust

• 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
• ⅓ cup cold butter or vegan butter, cubed
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 3–4 tablespoons cold water

For the Binder

• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup milk or plant-based milk

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Combine the flour and salt in a mixing bowl. Add the cold butter and work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water, mixing just until the dough comes together. Form into a disc, wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Filling

While the dough chills, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the onion, bell pepper, and garlic for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the plant-based meat, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking for 7–10 minutes, stirring frequently, until nicely browned. Remove from the heat and mix in 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese.

Step 3: Prepare the Pie Shell

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll the chilled dough into a circle large enough to fit a standard pie plate. Transfer it to the dish, trim the edges, and lightly prick the bottom with a fork.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

Spread the filling evenly inside the crust. In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth. Pour the mixture over the filling so it distributes throughout the pie. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top if desired.

Step 5: Bake

Place the pie in the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the center is set and the crust is golden brown. The filling should be bubbly around the edges.

Step 6: Cool Before Serving

Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.

Helpful Tip

Giving the pie time to rest is important. This brief cooling period allows the filling to firm up, making it easier to cut neat slices and serve without the filling falling apart.

Serve warm and enjoy!