Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Dish

This hearty Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Pie transforms classic burger flavors into a comforting casserole that's perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of savory ground beef, smoky turkey bacon, and rich cheese creates a satisfying dish that eliminates the need for burger buns while keeping all the flavors you love.

I created this recipe when my family was craving burgers but I wanted something easier to serve to guests. Now it appears on our dinner table at least twice a month because everyone asks for seconds every time.

Ingredients

• Ground Beef 75 25%: adds the perfect amount of fat for flavor while keeping the dish juicy. Look for freshly ground beef with a bright red color.
• Turkey Bacon: provides smoky flavor with fewer calories than traditional bacon. Choose a quality brand without added sugars for best results.
• Eggs: work as a binding agent that helps hold everything together while adding protein. Farm fresh eggs with bright orange yolks will enhance the color.
• Cheddar Cheese: creates that classic burger flavor and forms a delicious crust on top. Freshly grated melts much better than pre shredded varieties.
• Heavy Cream: adds richness and creates a custard like texture when combined with eggs. Full fat works best here.
• Butter: for greasing prevents sticking and adds subtle flavor. Use unsalted to control sodium levels.
• Salt: enhances all the flavors and brings everything together. Sea salt or kosher salt work wonderfully.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Your Oven and Pan:

Preheat your oven to exactly 400°F and take the time to thoroughly grease your baking dish with butter making sure to get into all corners and slightly up the sides. This critical step ensures easy serving later.

Brown the Meat Mixture:

Chop the turkey bacon into small pieces about a quarter inch wide then cook it with the ground beef over medium high heat. Break up the meat into small crumbles with a wooden spoon as it cooks until no pink remains about 7 to 8 minutes. The turkey bacon will release its smoky flavor into the beef.

Create the Base Layer:

Transfer your cooked meat mixture to the buttered baking dish spreading it evenly across the bottom. Press it down slightly with the back of a spoon to create a firm base layer that will hold the rest of the ingredients.

Mix the Custard Layer:

Vigorously whisk the eggs in a separate bowl until frothy then pour in the heavy cream and continue whisking until completely combined. Fold in half of the grated cheddar cheese until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Assemble the Pie:

Pour the egg and cheese mixture over the meat layer making sure it seeps down into all the crevices. Top with remaining cheese and arrange the additional chopped turkey bacon pieces decoratively on top for both flavor and visual appeal.

Bake to Perfection:

Place the dish in the center of your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbling around the edges. The center should be just set but still have a slight jiggle when gently shaken.

Rest Before Serving:

Allow the pie to rest for a full 10 minutes before cutting. This crucial resting period allows the proteins to set properly making it easier to slice into clean portions while preserving the juiciness.

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The heavy cream is truly the secret ingredient here. I once tried substituting milk to save calories and the texture was completely different much less rich and satisfying. The splurge on good quality cream really makes this dish special and reminds me of the comfort food my grandmother used to make when we visited her farm.

Make Ahead Tips

This Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger Pie actually tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld together. You can prepare the entire dish up to two days ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to serve simply reheat individual slices in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes or warm the entire pie covered with foil in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes until heated through.

Perfect Pairings

While this dish stands beautifully on its own I love serving it with a crisp side salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness. For those not watching carbs a toasted brioche bun on the side gives everyone the option to make mini burger sandwiches with slices of the pie. Pickles dill chips sliced tomatoes and red onion served alongside create a build your own burger experience that kids especially enjoy.

Variation Ideas

This recipe serves as a wonderful base for countless variations. Try adding diced jalapeños and pepper jack cheese for a spicy southwestern version. Mediterranean flavors work beautifully with the addition of sun dried tomatoes feta cheese and oregano. For breakfast enthusiasts try adding breakfast sausage instead of ground beef and serve it for a hearty morning meal. The possibilities are truly endless based on your family's preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of ground beef works best for this dish?

For the best results, use 75-25% ground beef for a juicy and flavorful casserole.

→ Can I substitute turkey bacon with regular bacon?

Yes, regular bacon can be used as a substitute for turkey bacon to enhance the smokiness.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute cheddar with other cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor.

→ What can I serve alongside this dish?

This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.