This Hamburger Pie is a vintage recipe that combines savory beef filling, a homemade flaky crust, and rich vegetable sauce. Perfect for family dinners, it delivers both warmth and nostalgia in every bite.
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Hamburger Pie
Hamburger Pie FAQ
Can I use a store-bought crust?
Yes, pre-made crusts save time and work well if you’re short on time.
Can I substitute tomato soup?
You can use canned diced tomatoes or tomato sauce as an alternative, though it may alter the flavor slightly.
What vegetables can I use?
Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables like peas, corn, or even mushrooms for the green peppers or carrots.
Food History
Hamburger Pie was a staple in mid-20th-century American kitchens. This dish, often referred to as a “meat pie,” became popular because it was economical and versatile. Betty Crocker introduced many variations of hamburger pies in their cookbooks, incorporating easy-to-make crusts and using pantry staples like tomato soup. The dish was a reflection of post-war America, where families prioritized hearty, budget-friendly meals that could feed everyone.
Timeline
- 1940s: Meat pies with homemade crusts gain popularity in the United States.
- 1947: This particular Betty Crocker recipe is introduced, offering a modernized, convenient version of the traditional meat pie.
- 1950s-1960s: Hamburger Pie becomes a go-to dish for home cooks, solidifying its place in classic American comfort food.
- Today: It remains a nostalgic favorite for many families.
Recipe Discussion
Hamburger Pie is a layered dish that starts with a rich, savory filling of ground beef, celery, onion, and green pepper. The tomato soup adds tang and depth, tying the flavors together. A homemade two-crust pastry encases the filling, providing a flaky and golden exterior.
The vegetable sauce is an optional addition but elevates the dish with its creamy texture and vibrant flavors. The sauce includes carrots, peas, and a savory broth that pairs wonderfully with the pie. Together, these elements create a meal that is hearty, satisfying, and full of classic flavors.
Preparation Tips
- Chill the dough: Refrigerate the crust dough for 20 minutes before rolling to make it easier to handle.
- Prevent sogginess: Cool the beef filling before placing it into the crust to keep the pastry crisp.
- Customize the vegetables: Use whatever vegetables your family loves or needs to use up.
- Brush with egg wash: For a golden, shiny crust, brush the top with a beaten egg before baking.
- Cool before slicing: Let the pie rest for a few minutes after baking to ensure clean slices.
Recommended Kitchen Products
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- Pastry Blender: Essential for making flaky homemade crusts.
- Pie Dish: A quality 9-inch pie dish ensures even baking.
- Rolling Pin: A reliable rolling pin is helpful for achieving a uniform crust.
Serving Suggestions
- With a side salad: Pair with a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Mashed potatoes: Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes for a filling meal.
- Gravy drizzle: Drizzle with brown gravy for added richness.
- Vegetable medley: Steam some broccoli, peas, or carrots as a healthy side dish.
- Leftover idea: Use the filling as a topping for baked potatoes or toast for a creative twist.
A Comfort Food Classic for All Generations
Hamburger Pie is a dish that feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re revisiting it from childhood memories or discovering it for the first time, this recipe is a testament to the power of classic home cooking. With its savory beef filling, buttery crust, and rich vegetable sauce, it’s a meal that never goes out of style.
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Hamburger Pie Recipe
Hamburger Pie
A classic Betty Crocker Hamburger Pie featuring a savory beef filling, homemade flaky crust, and a creamy vegetable sauce. Perfect for family dinners and nostalgic comfort food.
Ingredients
Filling:
- ½ cup chopped celery
- 2 tablespoons chopped onion
- ¼ cup chopped green pepper
- 2 tablespoons bacon fat
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (10 ½ ounces) tomato soup
- ½ teaspoon salt
Pastry for 9-Inch Two-Crust Pie:
- 2 cups sifted flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup shortening
- 4 tablespoons water
Vegetable Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons butter or margarine
- 4 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups soup stock or 2 bouillon cubes dissolved in 2 cups boiling water
- 1 cup cooked chopped carrots
- 1 cup cooked peas
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Sauté celery, onion, and green pepper in bacon fat.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned. Add tomato soup and salt. Simmer for 15 minutes. Cool.
- Prepare pastry for a two-crust pie.
- Roll out half the dough to line a 9-inch pie plate. Fill with beef mixture.
- Cover with top crust, seal edges, and make slits for steam to escape.
- Bake at 400°F for 45 minutes.
- Serve with Vegetable Sauce.