Just because you’re following a health-focused plan doesn’t mean you have to give up comfort food — and this Lean and Green Cheeseburger Pie proves it!
This recipe captures all the savory, melty, satisfying goodness of a cheeseburger, but with smart swaps to keep it lean, low-carb, and perfectly balanced for Optavia followers.
It’s quick to make, meal-prep friendly, and family-approved. Whether you’re on plan or just trying to eat cleaner, this cheeseburger pie will hit the spot without hitting the carb count.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a dream for busy weeknights or meal prepping. You get all the hearty satisfaction of a classic cheeseburger — seasoned beef, melted cheese, even that hint of mustard — baked into an easy, sliceable pie format.
It’s packed with protein, low in carbs, and has enough flavor to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it great for lunch leftovers the next day.
What You’ll Need
- 1½ pounds 93% lean ground beef
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- ½ cup diced yellow onion
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon mustard (yellow or Dijon)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup liquid egg whites
- ½ cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup chopped dill pickles (optional topping)
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)
Pro Tips
- Use lean ground beef to stay within Lean & Green guidelines. Drain any excess fat if needed.
- Chop pickles finely and sprinkle on top after baking for that classic cheeseburger flavor pop.
- If you want it spicy, add a little chopped jalapeño or hot sauce to the beef mixture.
- Don’t overbake — the center should be set but still soft and tender.
- This is a great recipe to double and freeze for future easy meals.
Tools You’ll Need
- Skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- 9-inch pie dish
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven mitts and knife for slicing
Substitutions and Variations
- Meat options: Swap beef for ground turkey or ground chicken for a leaner version.
- Cheese: Try reduced-fat mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
- Dairy-free? Use unsweetened almond or cashew milk and a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- Add greens: Throw in some chopped spinach or zucchini to boost your veggie intake.
Make Ahead Tips
You can prep this pie fully in advance. After baking, let it cool, cover tightly, and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat slices in the oven or microwave. You can also freeze individual portions for quick grab-and-go lunches.
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish with olive oil or nonstick spray.
2. Cook the Beef and Onions
In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add diced onions and sauté for 2–3 minutes until soft. Add ground beef, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until beef is browned and no longer pink. Stir in mustard and mix well. Remove from heat.
3. Make the Egg Mixture
In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, egg whites, and almond milk until smooth.
4. Assemble the Pie
Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly into the greased pie dish. Pour the egg mixture over the top. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the surface.
5. Bake
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the center is set and the cheese is melted and golden. Let cool slightly before slicing.
6. Garnish and Serve
Top with chopped pickles, fresh parsley, or green onions if desired. Serve warm, either on its own or with a side of roasted veggies or a green salad.
Leftovers and Storage
Let leftovers cool fully before storing. Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F until warm. To freeze, wrap slices in foil or store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Recipe FAQs
Q: Is this recipe approved for Optavia Lean and Green?
Yes! It includes the required lean protein and greens (if you serve it with a salad), with smart swaps to keep it on plan.
Q: Can I meal prep this recipe?
Absolutely. It holds up great in the fridge or freezer and reheats beautifully.
Q: What’s the best cheese to use?
Reduced-fat cheddar works well, but any reduced-fat, plan-friendly cheese you enjoy will be great.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes — use unsweetened almond or cashew milk and your favorite dairy-free cheese substitute.
A Lean Take on a Classic Comfort
This Optavia Lean and Green Cheeseburger Pie hits all the right notes — cheesy, savory, comforting — while keeping things light and balanced.
It’s a great example of how you can stick to your health goals without giving up the flavors you love.
Give it a try this week and let me know how it goes! Did you tweak it with your own favorite toppings or cheeses? Drop a comment and share your version — I’d love to hear how it worked for your family!