The Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is a delicious and satisfying dish that captures all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a convenient, low-carb format. Perfect for those following a low-carb or keto diet, this casserole delivers a hearty meal without the need for a bun, making it a great option for anyone looking to enjoy comfort food while sticking to their dietary goals.
At its core, this casserole features a savory combination of ground beef, crispy bacon, and melted cheese, all layered together to create a dish that’s both rich in flavor and satisfying in texture. The base of the casserole starts with high-quality ground beef, which is browned and seasoned with a blend of garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. These seasonings add depth and enhance the natural flavors of the beef, while diced onions and minced garlic contribute aromatic notes that make the dish even more flavorful.
The inclusion of bacon is what truly elevates this casserole. Bacon adds a smoky, salty richness that pairs perfectly with the beef, giving the casserole a flavor profile reminiscent of a classic bacon cheeseburger. The bacon is cooked until crispy, then combined with the beef mixture, ensuring that every bite is packed with savory goodness.
To keep the casserole low-carb, the mixture is bound together with a combination of eggs and heavy cream instead of the usual bread or flour-based binding agents. This not only helps the casserole hold its shape but also adds a creamy, custard-like texture that contrasts beautifully with the meat and cheese. The eggs and cream mixture is poured over the beef and bacon, creating a rich, cohesive base for the casserole.
Cheese is a key component of any cheeseburger, and this casserole is no exception. A generous layer of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese is spread over the top of the casserole before baking. The cheddar cheese provides a sharp, tangy flavor, while the mozzarella adds a gooey, melty texture that makes the casserole irresistible. As the casserole bakes, the cheese melts and becomes bubbly, creating a golden, crispy topping that’s both visually appealing and delicious.
Once baked, the casserole is ready to serve. It can be garnished with classic burger toppings like chopped lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and pickles for added freshness and crunch. For those who like a little extra flavor, low-carb condiments like mustard or sugar-free ketchup can be drizzled on top. The result is a dish that’s not only filling but also full of the familiar flavors of a cheeseburger, all in a low-carb package.
One of the best things about the Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is its versatility. It’s easy to customize based on personal preferences or dietary needs. For instance, you can add in chopped vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to increase the nutritional value and add more texture to the dish. Alternatively, experimenting with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Swiss, can give the casserole a different flavor profile.
This casserole is also an excellent choice for meal prep. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days and can be easily reheated in the oven or microwave, making it a convenient option for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Whether you’re feeding a family or simply want a ready-to-eat meal on hand, this dish delivers both in terms of flavor and convenience.
The Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is more than just a simple dinner; it’s a way to enjoy the indulgent taste of a cheeseburger while sticking to a low-carb diet. It’s a comforting, satisfying meal that’s sure to become a favorite for anyone looking to enjoy the best of both worlds—delicious comfort food and a healthy, low-carb lifestyle.
Ingredients:
- For the Casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dill pickles, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- For Garnish (Optional):
- Chopped lettuce
- Sliced tomatoes
- Extra pickles
- Mustard or ketchup (low-carb options)
Instructions:
- Cook the Bacon:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the skillet.
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and optional chopped pickles. Mix well to combine.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Transfer the beef mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream until smooth.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the beef mixture in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle the cooked bacon evenly over the top.
- Top with shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing.
- Serve:
- Garnish with chopped lettuce, sliced tomatoes, extra pickles, or your favorite low-carb condiments like mustard or sugar-free ketchup.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips:
- Vegetable Add-Ins: For added nutrition, you can mix in chopped vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach with the ground beef.
- Cheese Variety: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Swiss, for a different flavor profile.
- Meal Prep: This casserole stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave for an easy, low-carb meal.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair this casserole with a side salad or roasted vegetables to keep the meal low-carb and balanced.
Enjoy your Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole—a delicious, satisfying dish that captures the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a convenient, low-carb casserole!
