This Easy Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is packed with the flavors we love! Ground beef, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese come together in a simple, one-dish meal.
Who doesn’t love a cheesy dish that feels like a big hug in a bowl? I often whip this up when I need a quick dinner that makes my family happy—seriously, it’s that good!
It’s super easy to make, and you can even add veggies to sneak in some greens. Plus, leftovers? They reheat like a dream for lunch the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor and juiciness. If you prefer, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative with still great results.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a crunch! You can swap it for turkey bacon if you’re looking for a lower-fat option. Just remember, it may not be as crispy!
Cheese: I love using cheddar and mozzarella for that cheesy goodness, but feel free to experiment! Pepper jack adds a spicy kick, and goat cheese can give it a tangy twist.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, replace it with half-and-half or unsweetened almond milk. It will change the richness a bit but still works fine.
Pickles: Diced pickles are optional but add that classic cheeseburger flavor. If you’re not a fan, chopped bell peppers can add some crunch!
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Comes Out Perfectly Set?
Getting the casserole to set just right is key to a delicious dish. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Ensure the meat mixture is spread evenly in the baking dish so it cooks uniformly.
- The egg and cream mixture needs to be poured over the meat evenly. Stir it gently to combine.
- Baking it uncovered allows the cheese to get bubbly and golden. Keep an eye on it towards the end to prevent over-browning.
- Letting it sit for 5-10 minutes after baking lets everything set up nicely, making it easier to serve!
Easy Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chopped onion (optional)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup diced pickles (optional, for cheeseburger flavor)
- 2 tbsp ketchup (sugar-free if preferred)
- 1 tbsp mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole will take about 15 minutes of preparation time, followed by 25-30 minutes in the oven. In total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes before you can dig in and enjoy this delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Bacon:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, take a skillet and cook the bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy. Once it’s done, take the bacon out of the skillet and let it drain on paper towels. Once it cools, crumble or chop it into smaller pieces.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
In the same skillet (with the bacon fat for extra flavor), add the ground beef. Cook it over medium heat until it’s browned. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Remember to drain any excess fat once it’s nicely browned.
3. Add Onions and Garlic:
If you’re using them, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic into the beef mixture and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onions are soft.
4. Mix in Seasonings:
Add in the ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper into the skillet. Give it a good stir to combine everything, and then remove the skillet from the heat.
5. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream until they’re nice and smooth. Then, stir in the crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced pickles (if you’re using them).
6. Layer and Bake:
Take a 9×9 inch baking dish and spray it with cooking spray or grease it lightly. Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly in the dish. Then pour the egg and cheese mixture over the beef layer, spreading it out evenly. Lastly, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
7. Time to Bake:
Pop the dish in the preheated oven and bake it for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the casserole is set and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Let It Rest and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let it cool for 5-10 minutes, which helps it set up a bit. If you want, garnish with some fresh parsley or chives before serving!
Enjoy your delicious low-carb bacon cheeseburger casserole! Perfect for a cozy dinner—your family will love it!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative to beef. Just be sure to add a bit of olive oil to the pan as turkey can be drier than beef.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or unsweetened almond milk. The casserole will still be delicious but may be slightly less creamy.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When ready, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through.
