Why I Love This Recipe
This Easy Keto Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is one of those meals that feels like a treat but is entirely guilt-free! With only 2 grams of carbs per serving, it’s a fantastic option for anyone following a keto or low-carb lifestyle. The combination of ground beef, cream cheese, and cheddar cheeses creates a creamy, rich dish that delivers all the delicious flavors of a cheeseburger without the bun. It’s also incredibly versatile — you can easily customize it with your favorite keto-friendly toppings, like mushrooms or guacamole. Plus, it’s quick to make, and you can even enjoy it for breakfast. This casserole is a winner in every way!
Easy Keto Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 392 kcal per serving
Equipment
- 9×13 baking dish
- Meat chopper
- Onion chopper
- Meal prep containers (for storing leftovers)
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (I used Butcher Box ground beef for high quality)
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 oz cream cheese
- 2 large eggs
- 1-2 tablespoons mustard (I used 1 tablespoon)
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 teaspoon burger seasoning (I like Weber Burger Seasoning or McCormick Grill Mates Burger Seasoning)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 slices cooked bacon, crumbled (use more if you love bacon!)
- 1 kosher pickle, chopped (feel free to add more if you’re a pickle lover)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). - Cook the Ground Beef:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Once the beef starts to brown, add the onions, garlic, burger seasoning, and salt and pepper. Stir with a spatula to break the beef into small chunks. Cook until the beef is no longer pink and the onions have softened, about 5-7 minutes. - Add Cream Cheese and Worcestershire Sauce:
Stir in the cream cheese and Worcestershire sauce, allowing the cream cheese to melt and blend into the meat mixture. Remove from heat once everything is combined. - Prepare the Liquid Mixture:
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup shredded white cheddar cheese, and mustard until smooth. Set aside. - Assemble the Casserole:
Spray a 9×9 or 8×11 baking dish with oil or cooking spray. Pour the ground beef mixture into the prepared dish. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon and chopped pickles evenly over the top of the beef. - Add the Egg Mixture:
Pour the egg and cream mixture over the top of the beef and bacon. Make sure it’s evenly distributed across the casserole. - Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup shredded white cheddar cheese over the casserole. - Bake the Casserole:
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned. The casserole should be firm and the top golden. For me, 17 minutes was the perfect amount of time. - Cool and Serve:
Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This gives the dish a chance to set, making it easier to slice.
Tips & Tricks
- Add More Toppings: Feel free to get creative with your toppings! Mushrooms, avocado, and sautéed spinach are great keto-friendly additions to this dish. You could even throw in some jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Texture Variations: If you prefer a bit of crunch, consider topping the casserole with crushed pork rinds or almond flour breadcrumbs before baking for a crispy finish.
- Bacon Lovers: Don’t hesitate to add more bacon! The extra crunch and flavor are always a hit.
- Use Full-Fat Dairy: For the creamiest texture, always use full-fat cream cheese and heavy cream. They help maintain the rich flavor and smooth consistency.
Recipe Notes
- Cheese Varieties: The cheddar cheese can be substituted with any cheese you prefer, like mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
- Make It Spicy: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some hot sauce or chopped green chilies to the beef mixture for extra spice.
- Breakfast-Friendly: This casserole is great for meal prep and can be eaten for breakfast! Serve it with a side of avocado or a few more pickles for a satisfying morning meal.
FAQs
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or ground chicken for a lighter version of this casserole. Keep in mind that ground beef tends to have more fat, which contributes to the rich, savory flavor, so the turkey version may be a bit leaner.
2. Can I freeze the casserole for later?
Yes! To freeze, bake the casserole as instructed, then let it cool completely. Cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
3. What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?
If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, you can substitute it with soy sauce or a balsamic vinegar and garlic combo for a similar umami flavor.
4. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, you can use dairy-free cream cheese and cheese alternatives to make this casserole dairy-free. Look for full-fat options for the best texture.
5. Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Yes, feel free to add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the casserole for extra veggies. Just be sure to cook them first to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
This Keto Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is a simple, delicious, and filling meal that delivers all the best flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a low-carb, keto-friendly form. It’s an easy-to-make, hearty dish that can be enjoyed for lunch, dinner, or even breakfast. Perfect for meal prep or a weeknight family dinner
