1-First Step: Prepare your ingredients and preheat the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Chop 1 cup of onion finely and gather 1 pound of lean ground beef (80% lean or higher). Measure out your baking mix, cheese, eggs, milk, and vegetable oil. Having everything ready simplifies your cooking process.

2-Second Step: Cook the beef and onions. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion together until the beef is browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season with ½ teaspoon of salt. Drain excess fat if necessary to keep the filling from becoming greasy. Mixing in ½ cup of crispy cooked and crumbled bacon at this point adds an extra layer of flavor if you choose.

3-Third Step: Assemble the pie base and beef layer. Spray a 9-inch pie plate lightly with cooking oil or butter to prevent sticking. Spread the cooked beef and onion mixture evenly in the pie plate, ensuring a uniform layer. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the beef to create a gooey, cheesy middle layer.

4-Fourth Step: Prepare and pour the crust batter. In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of baking and pancake mix, 1 cup milk, 2 eggs, and 1 teaspoon vegetable oil. Whisk these ingredients until smooth. Pour the batter evenly over the beef and cheese layer without stirring, allowing it to cover the filling.

5-Fifth Step: Bake the pie. Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 29 to 33 minutes. The crust will become set and golden. To check doneness, insert a knife into the center; it should come out clean without any wet batter. The cheese should be bubbling nicely.

6-Final Step: Rest and serve. Once out of the oven, let the cheeseburger pie rest for about 10 minutes to set properly, making slicing easier. Serve with optional burger-inspired sides or toppings such as sliced avocado, shredded lettuce, pickles, or tomato slices to complete the experience.