Beef Puff Casserole Recipe: A Delectable Crustless Cheeseburger Pie

Welcome to Love With Recipes! Today, we bring you a mouthwatering Beef Puff Casserole, a delightful dish that captures the flavors of a cheeseburger while offering the comfort of a pie without the crust. This recipe hails from the renowned Better Homes and Gardens Quick and Easy Cookbook and is perfect for busy weeknights or any occasion when you crave something hearty yet simple to prepare. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cooking time of 30 minutes, you can have a delicious meal on the table in under an hour.

Recipe Overview

Ingredients

To create this cheesy, meaty casserole, gather the following ingredients:

Nutritional Information

This casserole is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. Below is the nutritional information per serving:

Instructions

Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for preparing this delectable Beef Puff Casserole.

1. Preheat the Oven
   Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and achieves the perfect puffiness. Next, generously spray an 8-inch round baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

2. Cook the Beef Mixture
   In a large skillet, combine 1 lb of ground beef, 1 medium onion (finely chopped), and ½ tsp of dried thyme. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the onion becomes tender, about 5 to 7 minutes. Make sure to drain off any excess fat to keep the casserole light and flavorful.

3. Prepare the Binder
   In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 large egg and ¼ cup of milk. Add in ¾ tsp of Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp of salt, and ¼ tsp of pepper, mixing well to combine. Next, fold in 1 cup of bread crumbs (you can use regular or gluten-free, depending on your preference) until everything is thoroughly incorporated.

4. Combine Mixtures
   Add the cooked beef mixture to the bowl with the egg and breadcrumb mixture. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly combined. Once mixed, press this meat mixture into the bottom of the prepared baking dish, forming an even layer.

5. Blend the Cheese Mixture
   In a blender, combine 3 large eggs and 3 tbsp of milk. Blend until smooth. With the blender running, gradually add 6 oz of cream cheese and 4 oz of cheddar cheese (cut into small cubes) through the opening in the lid. Continue to blend until the mixture is nearly smooth and creamy.

6. Layer and Bake
   Carefully pour the cheese mixture over the pressed meat layer in the baking dish, ensuring even coverage. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until the mixture is puffy and set. You will know it’s ready when the top is golden and slightly springy to the touch.

7. Serve and Enjoy
   Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. The center will remain creamy, providing a delightful contrast to the fluffy edges. Serve immediately, and enjoy your flavorful Beef Puff Casserole!

Final Thoughts

This Beef Puff Casserole is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying, making it a perfect meal for family dinners or gatherings with friends. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. The combination of beef and cheese is always a winner, and this dish presents it in a fun, unique way that everyone will love.

Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or spices to the mix. Whether enjoyed as a main course or paired with a fresh salad, this casserole is sure to delight your taste buds. Thank you for joining us at Love With Recipes; we hope you enjoy making and sharing this delicious dish with your loved ones!