Low Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is a delicious, hearty dish that combines all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger without the carbs. With layers of seasoned ground beef, crispy bacon, creamy cheese, and flavorful toppings, this casserole is perfect for anyone following a low-carb or keto diet. It’s easy to prepare and delivers all the comfort of a cheeseburger in a satisfying, oven-baked dish.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped dill pickles (optional, for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-6 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is softened.
- Drain any excess fat and remove from heat.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Spread the cooked ground beef mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the beef.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, eggs, and mustard until well combined. Pour the mixture evenly over the beef and bacon.
- Top with the shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is set.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with chopped dill pickles and fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Tips & Notes
- Bacon: For the best flavor, use thick-cut bacon. You can cook the bacon in the skillet before cooking the ground beef to use the bacon fat for extra flavor.
- Cheese: Feel free to use a blend of cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gruyere in addition to or instead of cheddar for a different flavor.
- Pickles: Dill pickles add a classic cheeseburger taste, but they are optional. You can also add sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Variations
- Cheeseburger Veggie Casserole: Add 1 cup of chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the ground beef mixture for extra vegetables.
- Spicy Bacon Cheeseburger: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the egg mixture for a spicy version.
- Loaded Cheeseburger Casserole: Top with sliced tomatoes and extra crumbled bacon after baking for a fully loaded version.
- Bacon Cheeseburger Pie: Instead of a baking dish, use a pie dish for a fun presentation that resembles a savory pie.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven.
2. How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
3. Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked casserole. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
4. Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or even ground chicken for a lighter version of this casserole.
Serving Suggestions
- Salad: Serve the casserole with a side salad of mixed greens, cucumber, and tomatoes for a balanced meal.
- Cauliflower Rice: Pair with cauliflower rice to keep the meal low-carb while adding some extra bulk.
- Avocado Slices: Add a few slices of avocado on top for creaminess and healthy fats.
- Low-Carb Bread: Serve with a slice of low-carb bread or a keto roll for a complete burger-like experience.
Low Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is a simple, satisfying dish that brings all the flavors of a cheeseburger into a low-carb format. With savory beef, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese, it’s a meal that’s sure to be a hit with the whole family. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this casserole is perfect for meal prepping or serving as a comforting weeknight dinner. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delicious cheeseburger experience without the carbs!