If you are craving a dish that combines all the savory goodness of a cheeseburger with the comfort of a casserole, you are going to fall in love with this Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe. It’s a mouthwatering family-friendly meal that packs bold flavors from crispy bacon, seasoned ground beef, and gooey cheddar cheese, all baked to golden perfection. Plus, it satisfies that burger craving without the carbs, making it perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty dinner that’s both delicious and diet-conscious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This dish comes together with surprisingly simple ingredients that each play a crucial role in creating its rich flavor and perfect texture. From the smoky bacon to the creamy eggs and sharp cheddar, every component adds something special to this beloved casserole.
- Ground beef: The hearty base that delivers classic burger flavor and satisfying texture.
- Bacon: Crispy and smoky, it adds irresistible crunch and a burst of savory goodness.
- Onion: Finely chopped to bring a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth.
- Garlic: Minced fresh to give a fragrant and slightly spicy note that enhances the beef.
- Cheddar cheese: Shredded and divided for gooey layers and a golden crust on top.
- Eggs: These bind the casserole together while keeping it fluffy and rich.
- Heavy cream: Adds creaminess and moisture for a perfect casserole texture.
- Yellow mustard: A little tang that brightens the flavors and echoes a cheeseburger’s classic components.
- Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami depth and complexity to the beef mixture.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance and balance all the flavors.
- Chopped green onions and diced tomatoes (optional): Fresh garnishes that bring color, freshness, and a slight crunch.
How to Make Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready once your casserole mixture is assembled. This step sets you up for a perfectly baked dish with a bubbly, golden cheese topping.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
Cook the diced bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crisp and flavorful. Drain it well and keep the delicious bacon grease in the skillet for the next steps — this adds incredible depth to the dish.
Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Into the bacon grease, toss the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. These softened aromatics are vital for building that irresistible cheeseburger base.
Step 4: Brown the Ground Beef
Add your ground beef into the skillet with the cooked onions and garlic. Cook until browned and fully done, then drain any excess grease to keep the casserole balanced and not greasy.
Step 5: Combine Beef and Bacon
Stir the crispy bacon back into the beef mixture, ensuring every bite will have that smoky crunch. Let the combo cool slightly to prepare for mixing with the egg custard.
Step 6: Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper until smooth. This creamy mixture will bind your casserole and add velvety richness.
Step 7: Assemble the Casserole
Begin by spreading the beef and bacon mixture evenly in a greased 8×8-inch baking dish. Layer half the shredded cheddar cheese over the beef, then pour the egg mixture evenly, allowing it to soak into every nook and cranny.
Step 8: Add Final Cheese Layer and Bake
Top your casserole with the remaining cheddar cheese to create a golden, bubbly crust. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the casserole is set in the center and the cheese is beautifully melted and browned.
Step 9: Cool and Garnish
Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes out of the oven before slicing. This resting helps it firm up, making it easier to serve. Feel free to sprinkle chopped green onions and diced tomatoes on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
How to Serve Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Simple fresh additions like chopped green onions or diced tomatoes lift the dish with brightness and texture contrast. A small dollop of sour cream or a few pickle slices make delightful garnishes that evoke classic cheeseburger flavors.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, steamed low-carb veggies like broccoli or asparagus, or even a light coleslaw. These sides balance the richness of the casserole and keep your meal fresh and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this casserole in individual ramekins for a fancy touch, or top each portion with a fried egg for a cozy brunch option. For a party, scoop it into mini bread bowls made from low-carb keto bread to keep the carb count down while impressing your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This dish reheats beautifully, making it an excellent option for quick weekday meals.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole before baking for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil or use a freezer-safe container. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Reheating
Reheat portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. The cheese will remain melty, and the flavors stay just as delicious as when freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is classic and provides a great melt, you can substitute or add mozzarella, pepper jack, or even gouda for different flavor profiles and textures.
Is this casserole suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s perfect for making ahead and storing. Cook it in advance, and you have a ready-to-eat meal for busy days that warms up quickly without losing any flavor or texture.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, replace cheddar cheese and heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives like vegan cheddar and coconut cream. The texture might vary slightly but will still be delicious.
What’s the best way to add extra veggies?
Chop low-carb veggies like bell peppers or spinach finely and sauté with onions before adding the beef. This adds nutrition and bulk while keeping carb count low.
Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken can work well, but the flavor will be lighter. You might want to add extra seasoning or a bit more Worcestershire sauce to enhance the taste.
Final Thoughts
This Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe is a total game-changer for anyone who loves the taste of a classic cheeseburger but wants to skip the buns and carbs. It’s simple to make, packed with bold flavors, and perfectly comforting on any night of the week. Give it a try—you’ll want to keep this one in your regular rotation for easy, delicious dinners.
