Venison Cheeseburger Pie
A hearty American pie that marries rich venison, spicy sausage, and tomato‑based gravy topped with a creamy cheese custard—perfect for cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oven to 425°F.
- Prepare a single 9‑inch pie crust.
- Brown the ground venison and hot sausage in a skillet, then drain excess fat.
- Stir in 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp oregano, 1/4 tsp pepper, 1/2 cup dry bread crumbs, 8‑oz can tomato sauce, 1/4 cup chopped onion, and 1/4 cup chopped green pepper.
- Pour the meat mixture into the prepared pie shell.
- In a bowl whisk together 1 egg, 1/4 cup milk, 1/2 tsp salt, Worcestershire sauce, and shredded cheese.
- Pour the custard mixture over the meat in the pie.
- Bake for 30 minutes until the top is golden and set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a slightly different flavor, consider using ground beef or turkey instead of venison. If you prefer a spicier kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes into the meat mixture. You can also swap the hot sausage for a milder variety to control the heat. Using a pre-made pie crust saves time, but homemade crust can elevate the dish. Pair with a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Venison Cheeseburger Pie hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an added pop of color. It pairs wonderfully with a side of coleslaw or a simple green salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving with seasoned roasted vegetables or crispy fries. This dish also complements a slice of Gram'S Lemon Icebox Pie for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, ensuring they are heated evenly. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Venison Cheeseburger Pie contains roughly 1005 calories, with 27g protein, 174g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (123% of the Daily Value), iron (113% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (62% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1291mg per serving (56% 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?
Yes, you can substitute ground venison with ground beef, turkey, or chicken. Each type of meat will impart its own flavor, so choose based on your preference. If using lean meats, be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How do I know when the pie is done baking?
The pie is done when the top is golden brown and the custard is set. You can check this by gently shaking the pie; if the center is firm and doesn't jiggle, it's ready. An internal temperature of 160°F will also indicate doneness.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and assemble the pie a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
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).