Pauline'S Hamburger Pie
A hearty and flavorful casserole combining seasoned ground beef, vegetables, and a cornmeal topping, perfect for comforting family dinners and versatile for various tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet with the chopped onion, chili powder, Worcestershire sauce, and salt.
- Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly in a baking dish.
- Layer diced potatoes, drained green peas, and drained corn over the beef mixture.
- Mix the juice from the corn and peas with the small can of tomato paste.
- Combine the cornmeal mix with the egg and buttermilk to make the batter.
- Spoon the batter over the layered vegetables and beef.
- Bake at 400°F for 35 minutes until the cornbread topping is brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using seasoned ground beef or adding garlic powder to the meat mixture. You can substitute the buttermilk with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar if needed. For a heartier dish, try adding shredded cheese to the batter or layering in some cooked bacon. If you want a spicy kick, you can incorporate diced jalapeños into the beef mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Hamburger Pie warm, garnished with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives. This dish pairs nicely with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a comforting twist, consider serving it alongside a portion of mashed potatoes or a slice of cornbread. It also complements well with green bean almondine.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Hamburger Pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, individual portions can be microwaved for about 2-3 minutes, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pauline'S Hamburger Pie contains roughly 852 calories, with 22g protein, 115g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (58% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (49% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (47% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1144mg per serving (50% 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 a different type of meat in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef if you prefer a lighter option. Pork or a mixture of meats can also add a unique flavor profile. Just ensure that you adjust the cooking time as needed, especially if using leaner meats that may cook faster.
What can I do if I don’t have cornmeal mix?
If you don't have cornmeal mix, you can make your own by combining equal parts cornmeal and all-purpose flour, along with a teaspoon of baking powder and a pinch of salt. This will create a similar batter for your pie. Alternatively, you can use a prepared cornbread mix if available.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Hamburger Pie in advance and store it unbaked in the refrigerator for up to a day. When ready to serve, simply bake it as directed. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights or meal prep. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly after refrigeration.
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).