Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole

This Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is a deliciously hearty dinner option that combines the irresistible flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the convenience of a one-dish meal. Rich, smoky bacon and juicy ground beef meld together with melted cheese and creamy eggs to create a comforting, satisfying dish perfect for anyone following a keto or low-carb lifestyle.

Ideal for busy weeknights, this casserole offers all the taste of your favorite comfort food without the heavy carbs. It’s easy to prepare and bakes to a golden, bubbly perfection that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients

• Ground beef (1 lb / 450 g): High-quality lean ground beef, providing the main protein base for rich and hearty flavor.
• Bacon (6 slices, cooked and crumbled): Crispy smoky bacon adds depth and texture, enhancing the savory profile of the casserole.
• Onion (1 small, finely chopped): Adds mild sweetness and aromatic depth to the beef mixture.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic infuses the casserole with savory, fragrant undertones.
• Eggs (4 large): Binds the casserole together, creating a custard-like texture while adding protein.
• Heavy cream (1 cup / 240 ml): Adds richness and creaminess to the egg mixture for a luscious finish.
• Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup, divided): Sharp cheddar provides classic cheeseburger flavor and melty texture.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup, divided): Mild mozzarella balances the sharpness and creates gooey cheese layers.
• Cream cheese (2 tbsp, softened): Adds extra creaminess and flavor, melting smoothly into the beef mixture.
• Sugar-free ketchup (2 tbsp, optional): Adds a touch of tangy sweetness without the carbs, enhancing the classic burger taste.
• Yellow mustard (1 tsp): Provides tangy brightness typical of cheeseburgers.
• Smoked paprika (½ tsp): Imparts a warm smoky flavor complementing the bacon and beef.
• Garlic powder (½ tsp): Enhances the garlic flavor with a gentle depth.
• Salt (½ tsp or to taste): Balances flavors and enhances savory notes.
• Black pepper (¼ tsp): Adds subtle heat and depth.
• Chopped pickles (2 tbsp, optional topping): Adds crunch and tangy contrast for garnish.
• Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional): Provides a fresh, herbal finish and color contrast.

Instructions

Cook the Bacon

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it reaches a crispy texture. Once cooked, remove the bacon slices and crumble them into small pieces. Set aside the bacon while retaining a small amount of the rendered bacon fat to keep flavor in the beef mixture.

Brown the Beef with Onions and Garlic

Drain most of the bacon grease from the skillet, leaving about one tablespoon to keep the dish flavorful without excess fat. Add the ground beef, finely chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook over medium-high heat until the beef is fully browned and the onions have softened, stirring to break up the meat evenly for a consistent texture.

Incorporate Cream Cheese and Bacon

Reduce the heat to low. Stir the softened cream cheese into the beef mixture until it melts completely and blends in smoothly, creating a creamy base. Then fold in the crumbled bacon to distribute smoky flavor throughout the mixture. Spread this beef and bacon mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish to form the casserole’s protein layer.

Prepare the Egg and Cheese Mixture

In a medium bowl, whisk together the large eggs, heavy cream, yellow mustard, and sugar-free ketchup if using. This combination creates a creamy custard that will set the casserole. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese to add cheesiness throughout the dish.

Assemble the Casserole

Pour the prepared egg and cheese mixture evenly over the layered beef and bacon in the baking dish. Then sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly on top. This ensures a bubbly, golden cheese crust once baked.

Bake Until Set and Golden

Place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the center is fully set and the top cheese is melted and golden brown. This baking step allows the flavors to meld and the custard to firm up for easy slicing.

Cool and Garnish Before Serving

Allow the casserole to cool slightly before cutting into portions to help it hold its shape. Garnish with chopped pickles or fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness if desired.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions gently in the microwave or oven to maintain the creamy texture without drying out.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs well with a crisp green salad or steamed low-carb vegetables. For a complete keto meal, serve alongside cauliflower mash or a simple side of roasted Brussels sprouts.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole dairy-free?

You can substitute dairy cheeses and cream with plant-based alternatives, but texture and flavor may slightly differ from the original recipe.

Is this casserole suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze the fully assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 1 month; bake directly from frozen, adding extra time.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Full-fat coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk can be used as lower-carb cream substitutes, but the casserole will be less rich.

Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Chopped low-carb veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms can be added to the beef mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.

How spicy is this dish?

This casserole is mildly spiced with smoked paprika and garlic powder, making it flavorful but not hot. Adjust seasoning to taste if preferred.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking, making it convenient for meal planning.

Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole

A hearty keto-friendly casserole with ground beef, smoky bacon, eggs, and melted cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights, this low-carb dish delivers rich flavor and satisfying texture.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course casserole, dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 6 people

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• 1 skillet for cooking bacon and browning beef
• 1 9x13-inch baking dish for assembling and baking casserole
• 1 mixing bowl for whisking egg mixture

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb ground beef
• 6 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
• 1 small onion finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese divided
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese divided
• 2 tbsp cream cheese softened
• 2 tbsp sugar-free ketchup optional
• 1 tsp yellow mustard
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt or to taste
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp chopped pickles optional topping
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

 

• Cook bacon in a skillet until crispy, then remove, crumble, and set aside.
• Drain most bacon grease, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the skillet, then add ground beef, onion, and garlic.
• Cook until beef is browned and onion is soft; stir in smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• Reduce heat and stir in softened cream cheese until melted and incorporated.
• Add crumbled bacon back into the beef mixture and spread evenly into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
• In a mixing bowl, whisk eggs, heavy cream, mustard, and optional ketchup.
• Stir in half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses into the egg mixture.
• Pour the egg mixture over the beef layer and top with the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
• Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, until set and golden on top.
• Let the casserole cool slightly before slicing; garnish with pickles or parsley if desired.

Notes

• Use sugar-free ketchup to keep it keto-friendly.
• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently to avoid drying out.