Imagine indulging in all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger—juicy beef, crispy bacon, and melty cheddar cheese—but without the carbs! This Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is a keto-friendly masterpiece that satisfies your burger cravings in a healthier way. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or any time you want a comfort food fix, this casserole is packed with protein and flavor, while keeping your carb count low. It's so good, your family and friends will be begging for seconds!
Why This Recipe is Irresistible
This casserole combines the savory richness of ground beef and bacon with a cheesy, creamy egg mixture that brings everything together. Whether you’re following a keto lifestyle or just looking for a hearty, low-carb meal, this dish delivers serious flavor with minimal effort. The golden cheesy topping is the perfect finishing touch, and it’s easy to customize with your favorite burger toppings.
Ingredients Breakdown
2 pounds ground beef – The star of this dish, ground beef provides the hearty base for the casserole. Choose 80/20 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and fat content.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic adds a subtle depth of flavor, giving the beef an extra layer of richness.
½ teaspoon onion powder – Onion powder complements the garlic, adding that classic cheeseburger taste without the carbs from actual onions.
1 pound cooked bacon, cut into pieces – Who can resist bacon? It adds salty, smoky flavor and crunchy texture throughout the casserole.
8 eggs – Eggs form the base of the creamy filling, holding everything together and giving the dish a satisfying, fluffy texture.
1 cup heavy whipping cream – Heavy cream adds richness and makes the casserole extra creamy without adding carbs.
½ teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors, making the dish more savory.
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper – Just a touch of spice to balance out the richness.
1 (12-ounce) package shredded Cheddar cheese, divided – Cheddar is the ultimate burger cheese, bringing sharp, tangy goodness to each bite. Half goes into the filling, while the other half melts on top to form a golden, bubbly crust.
Step-by-Step Directions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.
Brown the beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, garlic, and onion powder, cooking until the beef is browned and crumbly (about 5-7 minutes). Make sure to drain and discard excess grease to avoid a greasy casserole.
Layer the beef and bacon: Spread the cooked ground beef evenly across the bottom of your prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the bacon pieces on top, distributing them evenly so that each bite has that delicious crunchy bacon goodness.
Whisk the egg mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, salt, and pepper until fully combined. Stir in 8 ounces (about 2 cups) of the shredded Cheddar cheese.
Pour the egg mixture: Carefully pour the egg mixture over the beef and bacon, ensuring it covers everything evenly.
Top with cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 4 ounces (about 1 cup) of Cheddar cheese on top. This will melt and create a golden, cheesy crust that ties the whole dish together.
Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set in the center. You’ll know it’s done when a knife inserted into the middle comes out clean.
Serve and enjoy: Once baked, let the casserole rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to cut perfect squares.
Why People Love This Recipe
This Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is a hit because it brings the flavors of a classic cheeseburger to the table in a low-carb, keto-friendly form. It's filling, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. The crispy bacon and rich cheddar cheese make this dish feel indulgent, while the high-protein content keeps you full for hours. Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Casserole
- Choose high-quality beef: Opt for grass-fed beef or a fattier blend (like 80/20) for more flavor.
- Use pre-cooked bacon: To save time, you can use store-bought cooked bacon or prep your bacon in advance.
- Add burger toppings: Want to take it up a notch? Serve with your favorite cheeseburger toppings, such as sliced pickles, chopped tomatoes, or a drizzle of sugar-free ketchup.
- Double the recipe for meal prep: This casserole freezes well, so make a double batch and freeze the leftovers for easy lunches or dinners.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete low-carb meal. You can also pair it with keto-friendly buns or lettuce wraps to mimic the burger experience. For a real diner vibe, serve with pickle spears or a side of coleslaw.
Conclusion
This Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is a game-changer for anyone following a keto or low-carb lifestyle. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to become a family favorite. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering meal that feels indulgent without the carbs. Make it once, and you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again!
Don’t lose this recipe—bookmark it now! Trust me, you’ll want to keep it handy for those days when you need a quick, satisfying, and delicious low-carb meal. Happy cooking! ❤️