Mini BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Pies
These Mini BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Pies bring the bold, smoky flavors of a backyard barbecue right to your kitchen. Bite-sized and packed with savory goodness, these delicious mini pies combine tender ground beef, crispy bacon, gooey cheddar cheese, and tangy barbecue sauce in a flaky pie crust. Perfect for parties, game day snacks, or a fun dinner idea, they’re guaranteed to be a hit with everyone!
Ingredients Overview
- 1 pound ground beef:
Ground beef is the heart of this recipe, providing a juicy and flavorful filling. Opt for 80/20 ground beef to get the best balance of flavor and moisture. - 1/2 cup barbecue sauce:
Adds a sweet and smoky flavor to the beef mixture. Choose a sauce with a bold flavor to really make the filling stand out. - 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese:
Cheddar melts beautifully and adds a rich, creamy texture. Sharp cheddar works well for a more intense cheese flavor. - 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled:
Crispy bacon brings a smoky, salty crunch to the mini pies. Use thick-cut bacon for a heartier texture. - 1 package refrigerated pie crusts:
Using pre-made pie crusts saves time while still providing a flaky, buttery shell for the filling. Let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before using to make them easier to work with.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Filling:
Preheat the oven to 375°F. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it into small crumbles. Drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep the filling from becoming greasy. Stir in the barbecue sauce, shredded cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon. Remove from heat once the cheese is melted and the mixture is well-combined. - Prepare the Pie Crusts:
Roll out the refrigerated pie crusts on a lightly floured surface. Use a round cutter (approximately 3-4 inches in diameter) to cut out circles from the dough. You should be able to get about 12-15 circles from the package, depending on the size of the cutter. - Assemble the Mini Pies:
Gently press each dough circle into the cups of a muffin tin, forming a small crust for the pies. Make sure the dough is pressed all the way up the sides of each cup. Spoon the beef mixture into each crust, filling them generously but not overfilling. - Bake the Pies:
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pie crusts are golden brown and crisp. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to ensure the crusts don’t over-brown. - Serve Warm:
Allow the mini pies to cool for a few minutes before carefully removing them from the muffin tin. Serve warm, optionally garnished with a drizzle of barbecue sauce, chopped green onions, or a dollop of sour cream.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storage:
Leftover pies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. - Freezing:
Freeze the baked pies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. - Reheating:
Reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. For a quick option, microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, though the crust may not stay as crisp.
20 Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well as a leaner alternative.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and refrigerate the pies for up to 24 hours before baking.
3. Do I have to use cheddar cheese?
No, other cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda can be substituted.
4. Can I use homemade pie crust?
Absolutely! Homemade pie crusts will work perfectly for this recipe.
5. How do I prevent the crusts from getting soggy?
Make sure to drain any excess grease from the beef and avoid overfilling the pies with sauce.
6. Can I add other toppings to the filling?
Yes, you can mix in jalapeños, sautéed mushrooms, or diced bell peppers for added flavor.
7. Can I make these in a mini muffin tin?
Yes, for bite-sized versions, use a mini muffin tin and cut smaller circles from the pie crusts.
8. What can I serve with these mini pies?
Pair with a fresh salad, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
9. Can I make these gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free pie crust and ensure the barbecue sauce is gluten-free.
10. Can I use a different type of barbecue sauce?
Yes, feel free to use your favorite barbecue sauce, such as spicy, honey, or mustard-based.
11. Should the bacon be cooked before adding it to the mixture?
Yes, make sure the bacon is cooked and crumbled before adding it to the beef mixture.
12. Can I add some spice to the recipe?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
13. Can I use puff pastry instead of pie crust?
Yes, puff pastry can be used for a lighter, flakier crust.
14. How many servings does this recipe make?
The recipe makes about 12-15 mini pies, depending on the size of the cutter.
15. Do I need to grease the muffin tin?
Yes, lightly grease the muffin tin to prevent sticking.
16. Can I use leftover cooked beef?
Yes, leftover roast beef or brisket can be used, chopped finely.
17. Can I add extra cheese on top before baking?
Definitely! A sprinkle of cheese on top adds extra deliciousness.
18. Should I let the pies cool before serving?
Yes, let them cool for 5 minutes for the filling to set slightly.
19. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, the recipe can easily be doubled to make more mini pies.
20. Can I use a different type of dough?
Pizza dough, biscuit dough, or crescent roll dough can also be used.
20 Secrets for Culinary Perfection
- Use High-Quality Beef for Better Flavor:
Higher-grade beef results in a more flavorful filling. - Cook the Bacon Extra Crispy for Better Texture:
Crispy bacon adds a delightful crunch. - Drain Excess Grease from the Beef for a Non-Greasy Filling:
It keeps the filling light and prevents soggy crusts. - Let the Beef Mixture Cool Slightly Before Filling the Crusts:
This helps prevent the crust from becoming too soft. - Use a Cheese Blend for a Richer Taste:
Mixing cheddar with other cheeses, like Monterey Jack, adds depth. - Brush the Edges of the Crust with Egg Wash for a Golden Finish:
An egg wash gives the crust a nice shine and color. - Pre-Bake the Pie Crusts for a Crispier Bottom:
Bake the crusts for 5 minutes before adding the filling. - Add a Splash of Worcestershire Sauce for Extra Umami:
It deepens the savory flavor of the beef. - Include Diced Pickles in the Filling for a Cheeseburger Twist:
Adds a tangy contrast to the rich filling. - Use Flaky Sea Salt to Garnish for a Touch of Sophistication:
It enhances the flavor of the finished pies. - Add Caramelized Onions to the Filling for Sweetness:
They bring a subtle sweetness and depth. - Sprinkle Smoked Paprika for a Hint of Smokiness:
It complements the barbecue sauce perfectly. - Serve with a Side of Extra Barbecue Sauce for Dipping:
Extra sauce makes for a tasty finishing touch. - Add a Pinch of Brown Sugar to the Filling for Sweetness:
Balances the acidity of the barbecue sauce. - Cook the Beef Mixture a Day Ahead for Deeper Flavor:
Letting it sit overnight allows the flavors to meld. - Don’t Overfill the Pies to Prevent Spillage:
Leave a little room at the top for expansion during baking. - Line the Muffin Tin with Parchment Paper Circles for Easy Removal:
Ensures the pies pop out effortlessly. - Chill the Pie Dough Before Rolling for Easier Handling:
Cold dough is less likely to tear. - Use a Variety of BBQ Sauces for Different Flavors:
Try honey, spicy, or smoky BBQ sauces to change things up. - Add Fresh Herbs Like Chives or Parsley Before Serving:
It adds a burst of color and freshness.
