There is something truly special about diving into a comforting, home-cooked meal that warms both the heart and the belly, and this Hillbilly Pie Recipe does just that. This hearty casserole combines seasoned ground beef, sweet bursts of corn, and a creamy mantle of mashed potatoes, all crowned with gooey melted cheddar cheese. It’s a nostalgic nod to Southern kitchens where simple ingredients come together to create a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re gathering family or need a reliable weeknight dinner, this Hillbilly Pie Recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home too.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the way each ingredient brings a unique flavor and texture that makes the dish irresistibly satisfying. From the savory beef to the sweet corn and smooth mashed potatoes, every component plays its part.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty base that brings rich, savory flavor and protein to the dish.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth when cooked with the beef.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the meat’s flavor with a gentle garlicky warmth.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing all the ingredients’ flavors to life.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle, balancing kick without overpowering.
- 1 can (15 oz) sweet corn, drained: Provides a delightful pop of sweetness and a burst of color.
- 2 cups prepared mashed potatoes: Whether homemade or instant, they add creamy comfort as a fluffy topping.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully on top to form a golden, cheesy crust that completes the dish.
How to Make Hillbilly Pie Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté Onions
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat and cooking the ground beef along with the diced onions. It’s important to cook until the beef is fully browned and the onions turn soft and translucent, about 7 to 8 minutes. This combination lays the flavorful foundation for the pie, and the aroma at this point is just irresistible.
Step 2: Season and Drain
Sprinkle in garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to the cooked beef and onions, stirring well to distribute the seasoning evenly. After that, drain any excess grease to keep the dish flavorful but not greasy, which ensures a perfect texture in the final bake.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
Take an 8×8-inch baking dish and spread the seasoned beef and onion mixture evenly across the bottom. Next, layer the drained sweet corn over the beef. This sweet layer balances the savory meat beautifully and adds texture. Finally, spoon the mashed potatoes over the corn, spreading them gently into an even layer with a spatula for a smooth, creamy surface.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Bake
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the mashed potatoes. This final touch adds richness and creates that classic golden-bubbly topping. Bake the dish in a preheated 375°F oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly browned. Letting it rest for a few minutes after baking allows it to set, making it easier to serve.
How to Serve Hillbilly Pie Recipe
Garnishes
For a vibrant finish, consider sprinkling fresh chopped parsley or chives atop the baked pie. These green garnishes add a pop of color and a hint of fresh brightness that complements the rich casserole wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This Hillbilly Pie Recipe stands well on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad or steamed green beans. The fresh crunch and lightness of these sides balance the comforting richness of the pie perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Hillbilly Pie Recipe in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for single portions. It not only looks charming but also helps with portion control and adds a bit of rustic charm to the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Hillbilly Pie stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s a perfect ready-made meal to reheat for a quick lunch or second dinner without losing any of that cozy flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze the assembled pie before baking by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Frozen, it will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain the crispy cheesy top. If short on time, the microwave works too, though the texture will be less crisp but still delicious and comforting.
FAQs
Can I use leftover mashed potatoes for this Hillbilly Pie Recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover mashed potatoes is a great way to save time and avoid waste. Just make sure they’re smooth enough to spread evenly over the corn layer.
Is there a vegetarian version of Hillbilly Pie?
You can swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat substitute or use cooked lentils or black beans instead. Adding mixed vegetables instead of corn also boosts the veggie factor while keeping it hearty.
Can this recipe be doubled for a larger crowd?
Yes, doubling the ingredients and using a larger baking dish (like a 9×13 inch) will work perfectly. Just adjust the baking time slightly, checking for bubbling cheese on top as an indicator.
What kind of cheese works best if I don’t have cheddar?
Cheddar is classic for its flavor and meltability, but Colby, Monterey Jack, or a mild mozzarella can be excellent alternatives depending on your taste preferences.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This Hillbilly Pie Recipe is naturally gluten-free as written, but always double-check your mashed potatoes and any added ingredients to ensure no gluten-containing additives are included.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re seeking a meal that’s quick, satisfying, or full of nostalgia, this Hillbilly Pie Recipe ticks all the boxes with its simple ingredients and irresistible flavor layers. It’s the kind of dish that invites you to slow down, savor, and share with those you love. Give it a try soon — your taste buds and family will thank you!
Print
Hillbilly Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Hillbilly Pie is a hearty, comforting casserole featuring layers of seasoned ground beef, sweet corn, and creamy mashed potatoes, baked until golden and bubbling. This budget-friendly Southern favorite is perfect for a satisfying family dinner, combining savory flavors and a cheesy topping for a nostalgic taste of home.
Ingredients
Meat Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Additional Layers
- 1 can (15 oz) sweet corn, drained
- 2 cups prepared mashed potatoes (homemade or instant)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook Beef and Onion: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion together until the beef is browned and the onions are tender, about 7-8 minutes. Season the mixture with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Drain any excess grease to keep the casserole from being greasy.
- Layer Meat: Spread the cooked ground beef and onion mixture evenly over the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking dish, forming the first layer of the pie.
- Add Corn Layer: Evenly sprinkle the drained sweet corn over the meat layer, providing a sweet, juicy contrast.
- Top with Mashed Potatoes: Spoon the prepared mashed potatoes over the corn layer and gently spread them out using a spatula to create a smooth, even layer.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the mashed potatoes for a rich, melted topping.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the layers to set for easy slicing.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, add a can of cream of mushroom soup mixed into the cooked beef layer before layering.
- Swap sweet corn with mixed vegetables like peas, carrots, and green beans for variety.
- Use leftover mashed potatoes to speed up preparation time and reduce effort.
