Save
This Low Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole brings together everything you love about a classic cheeseburger in a comforting, easy-bake dinner that fits perfectly into a low-carb or keto lifestyle. Savory ground beef, crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and a creamy, tangy sauce meld together into pure comfort food satisfaction. This dish is a go-to for busy weeknights, meal prep, or whenever you crave burger flavors without the bun.
The first time I brought this casserole to a family get-together, it disappeared before anything else on the table. Now it is a repeat request at our house every month when the burger craving strikes.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: Use 80 or 85 percent lean for the richest flavor and juiciness
- Bacon: Fry extra crispy for ultimate crunch throughout the casserole
- Onion: A small sweet or yellow onion adds a flavor foundation to the beef
- Garlic powder and onion powder: Build savory and classic burger taste
- Smoked paprika: Adds smoky depth reminiscent of grilled burgers
- Salt and black pepper: Fresh cracked pepper is always best for vibrant flavor
- Eggs: Help create a creamy, rich base that holds everything together
- Heavy cream: Gives silky texture to the casserole’s egg mixture
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar delivers a classic cheeseburger punch
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts smoothly for stretch and creaminess
- Unsweetened ketchup: Brings that essential tang while keeping carbs low
- Yellow mustard: Adds signature burger zest
- Worcestershire sauce: Enhances umami with a big depth of flavor
- Optional garnish: Pickles tomatoes and lettuce mimic the best burger toppings
Tip
Select grass-fed beef if possible for richer flavor and nutrition. For cheese try grating it fresh as pre-shredded can have added starches.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the Beef:
- Cook the ground beef over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Break it up into small crumbles and stir frequently until no pink remains and some bits are crisp on the edges. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add Onion and Spices:
- Add diced onion to the beef. Sprinkle with garlic powder onion powder smoked paprika salt and black pepper. Stir and cook until onions are soft about four minutes. This step builds a solid flavor base and makes sure the onion is sweet not sharp.
- Mix Creamy Topping:
- In a bowl whisk together eggs with heavy cream ketchup mustard Worcestershire sauce a pinch of salt and black pepper. Whisk until smooth for even custard-like texture throughout the casserole.
- Layer and Cheese:
- Transfer beef and onion mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle evenly with cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Pour the egg and cream mixture all over to saturate the beef and cheese for a uniform bake.
- Top with Bacon:
- Scatter cooked crumbled bacon over the top so every bite has salty crunch in it. Press down gently to prevent the bacon from burning while baking.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for twenty to twenty five minutes or until the center is set and the edges are deeply golden. Let rest for five minutes to firm up before cutting.
- Finish and Serve:
- Garnish with sliced pickles diced tomatoes or shredded lettuce if desired to mimic the ultimate loaded burger effect.
Save
My favorite part of this dish is always the layer of crispy bacon melting into the hot cheese. My kids always rush to pick the pieces with the most bacon and we end up laughing over who got the cheesiest bite. This is real stick-to-your-ribs comfort food with great family memories built in.
Storage Tips
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This casserole also freezes well just slice and store in single portions for quick lunches or dinners. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven with a foil cover to preserve moisture.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version. Turkey bacon works well if you need a lower fat option. Dairy-free cheese shreds and unsweetened almond milk with a spoon of mayo can be swapped in for the cream and regular cheese if you have dietary restrictions.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole with a bright green salad or roasted broccoli for a well-rounded plate. It is delicious topped with chopped pickles tomatoes or even a dollop of sugar-free ketchup. Sometimes I layer everything with extra lettuce for a deconstructed burger bowl.
Burger Casserole Context
Casserole versions of classic comfort foods were big in Midwestern kitchens in the sixties and seventies when busy parents needed hearty meals fast. Combining burger flavors into one pan cuts prep and makes dinner cleanup a snap. This low carb adaptation keeps the nostalgia but fits modern diets.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Can I use turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for beef. The dish will be leaner, so consider adding a bit of oil for moisture, and adjust seasoning to taste.
- → Is this suitable for a keto diet?
Yes, with minimal carbs from onion and ketchup, this casserole fits well in most ketogenic meal plans.
- → What cheese works best?
Cheddar and mozzarella blend for optimal melt and flavor, but Monterey Jack or provolone can be used for a twist.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Let the casserole cool, then cover and refrigerate. It keeps well for up to four days and reheats nicely in the oven or microwave.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready for a fresh, hot meal.
- → Are there topping suggestions?
Garnish with sliced pickles, diced tomatoes, or chopped lettuce for added crunch and classic cheeseburger taste.