Low Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is a delicious, keto-friendly dish that brings all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger into a hearty, comforting casserole. With ground beef, crispy bacon, and plenty of melted cheese, this dish is perfect for a family dinner or meal prep. It’s rich, satisfying, and easy to make, making it an ideal option for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a mouthwatering casserole that will please the whole family.
Ingredients for Low Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole
- 1 pound lean ground beef: The base of the casserole, providing protein and rich flavor.
- ½ pound sliced bacon, cut, cooked, and set aside: Adds a crispy, smoky element to the dish.
- ½ sweet onion, diced: Adds a mild, sweet flavor that complements the beef.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Provides a subtle, aromatic flavor.
- 4 tbsp cream cheese, softened: Adds creaminess and richness to the casserole.
- 2 tbsp low-sugar ketchup: Gives a hint of tangy sweetness without adding too many carbs.
- 1 tbsp mustard: Adds a sharp, tangy flavor that balances the richness of the cheese and meat.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Enhances the savory, umami flavor of the casserole.
- 1 tsp seasoning salt: Adds a well-rounded flavor to the dish.
- 4 large eggs: Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
- ¼ cup heavy cream: Adds richness and creaminess to the egg mixture.
- 1 tsp black pepper: Adds a bit of spice and enhances the overall flavor.
- 1 tsp hot sauce (optional): Adds a touch of heat, perfect for those who like a bit of spice.
- 8 ounces freshly grated Cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a sharp, cheesy flavor.
- 1 tsp fresh dill, for garnish: Adds a fresh, herby note to the dish.
Instructions: How to Make Low Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole
Step 1: Cook the Beef and Bacon
- Cook the Bacon:
- In a large skillet, cook the ½ pound of sliced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel to drain. Once cooled, chop the bacon into small pieces and set aside.
- Cook the Beef:
- In the same skillet, add the 1 pound of lean ground beef and cook over medium heat until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the Onions and Garlic:
- Add the ½ diced sweet onion and 1 minced garlic clove to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Incorporate the Cream Cheese and Seasoning:
- Stir in the 4 tbsp of softened cream cheese, 2 tbsp of low-sugar ketchup, 1 tbsp of mustard, 1 tbsp of Worcestershire sauce, and 1 tsp of seasoning salt. Mix until the cream cheese is fully melted and all ingredients are well combined. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture
- Whisk the Eggs and Cream:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs, ¼ cup of heavy cream, 1 tsp of black pepper, and 1 tsp of hot sauce (if using) until well combined.
- Combine the Egg Mixture with the Beef:
- Add the cooked ground beef mixture to the egg mixture and stir to combine.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake the Casserole
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch or 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Pour the beef and egg mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the 8 ounces of freshly grated Cheddar cheese evenly over the top, followed by the chopped bacon.
- Bake:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with 1 tsp of fresh dill for a pop of color and flavor.
- Serve:
- Slice the casserole into squares and serve hot. Pair it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete low-carb meal.
🍽 Cook’s Notes & Tips
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to use different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican blend, for a different flavor profile.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator overnight. When ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven and add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Variations of Low Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole
Here are some ways to customize your Low Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole:
- Vegetable Additions: Add chopped bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the beef mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
- Spicy Version: Increase the hot sauce or add diced jalapeños for a spicier casserole.
- BBQ Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole: Swap the ketchup and mustard for low-carb BBQ sauce for a BBQ twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative and will make the dish a bit leaner. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.
2. How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too greasy?
Using lean ground beef and draining any excess fat after cooking can help prevent the casserole from becoming too greasy.
3. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the baked casserole. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
4. What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or cauliflower rice.
5. Can I omit the hot sauce?
Yes, the hot sauce is optional and can be omitted if you prefer a milder flavor.
A Satisfying and Flavorful Low-Carb Meal
Low Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is a satisfying and flavorful dish that’s perfect for anyone following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. With its rich, cheesy topping, savory beef, and crispy bacon, this casserole is a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of a classic cheeseburger without the carbs. It’s easy to make, customizable, and sure to become a family favorite.
So gather your ingredients and enjoy this comforting Low Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole that’s as delicious as it is easy to make
