Microwave Cheese Burger Pie
A comforting microwave cheese burger pie with savory beef, creamy mashed potatoes, and melted American cheese, perfect for quick family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, 1 cup instant potato flakes, 1 cup milk, egg, catsup, onion flakes, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Spread into a 9-inch glass pie plate.
- Cover the pie with wax paper.
- Microwave on high for 16 minutes, turning the dish 1/4 turn every 4 minutes.
- Arrange 2 slices of American cheese on top of the beef mixture.
- Cover and let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding chopped pickles or mustard to the meat mixture. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you prefer a different cheese, cheddar or Swiss can work well. Ensure the meat is fully cooked before serving. This dish can be made in advance and reheated, making it a great choice for busy nights.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Microwave Cheese Burger Pie with a side of mixed greens or a simple coleslaw for a refreshing contrast. It also pairs beautifully with a bowl of soup or baked beans for a complete meal. For a fun twist, add a dollop of sour cream or your favorite hot sauce on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or until warmed through. If you want to restore some crispness, consider reheating in a toaster oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Cheese Burger Pie contains roughly 833 calories, with 14g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 71g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (69% of the Daily Value) and protein (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2182mg per serving (95% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of instant potato flakes?
While you can use fresh potatoes, the cooking time and method will change significantly. You would need to boil and mash the potatoes before incorporating them into the recipe. Instant potato flakes offer convenience and a consistent texture, making them a better choice for this quick dish.
What can I do if I don't have a microwave-safe pie plate?
If you don't have a microwave-safe pie plate, you can use a microwave-safe glass or ceramic dish that holds at least 9 inches. Just ensure it is marked as microwave-safe to avoid any accidents. You can also use a microwave-safe casserole dish if needed.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or finely chopped vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini. You can also enhance the flavor with additional spices and herbs. Use vegetable broth instead of milk for a dairy-free option.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).