This Easy Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is a comforting dish that packs all the flavors of a cheeseburger without the extra carbs! It’s loaded with tasty ground beef, crispy bacon, and melted cheese.
You won’t believe how simple it is to whip up! Just mix everything together and bake. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, and trust me, you’ll be going back for seconds. 🥓🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually go for 80/20 ground beef because it strikes a nice balance between flavor and fat. You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian twist.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds great flavor! If you’re looking for something lighter, turkey bacon is a good alternative. Just keep an eye on it; it can cook differently than pork bacon.
Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for a strong cheeseburger taste, but feel free to play around! Pepper jack can add a spicy kick, and you can even use cream cheese for a creamy texture.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness, but you can swap it with half-and-half or a low-carb nut milk if you’re looking to cut calories. Just make sure it has some fat for creaminess.
How Do I Get My Casserole to Set Perfectly?
Ensuring your casserole is set just right is key for a good texture. Mixing eggs with cream creates a custard-like base that holds everything together. Here’s how to make it work:
- Whisk the eggs until frothy before adding cream, mayo, and mustard. This helps incorporate air, resulting in a fluffier texture.
- Mix your meat and cheese right into the egg mixture to ensure even distribution. Don’t overmix, or it might become tough!
- Don’t rush the baking! Allow it to bake until firm and the top is golden. A bit of patience goes a long way here.
Enjoy your cooking experience, and this tasty dish that brings the flavor of a cheeseburger into a hearty casserole!
Easy Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp mustard (yellow or Dijon)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Serving (Optional):
- Pickles
- Diced tomatoes
- Chopped lettuce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then another 25-30 minutes to bake. Overall, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep Your Oven and Ingredients:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure it’s perfectly hot when you’re ready to bake your casserole.
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it becomes crispy. Once done, remove the bacon and place it on paper towels to drain the excess grease. Once it cools, chop it into small pieces.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet with the leftover bacon drippings, toss in the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and continue to cook for another minute, stirring to combine.
4. Brown the Ground Beef:
Now add the ground beef to the skillet with the onion and garlic mixture. Cook until the beef is fully browned and crumbled. Drain any excess fat if needed. Season with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce, and give it a good stir to mix.
5. Make the Egg Mixture:
In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, mayonnaise, and mustard until smooth and well combined. This will be the binding agent for your casserole.
6. Combine Everything Together:
Add the cooked beef mixture and chopped bacon into the egg mixture. Toss in half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, then mix everything well until combined.
7. Prepare for Baking:
Pour the combined mixture into a greased 8×8-inch baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula and sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly on top.
8. Bake Until Golden:
Pop the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the middle and the top is golden brown and bubbly.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, feel free to add your favorite toppings like pickles, diced tomatoes, or chopped lettuce for an extra burst of flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious low-carb bacon cheeseburger casserole!
FAQ for Easy Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner alternative and will work just fine in this recipe. Just keep in mind that turkey can sometimes be less flavorful, so you might want to adjust the seasonings slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm it in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. If it seems dry, you can add a splash of cream or broth.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance! Just assemble it up to the baking step and cover it tightly. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven, adding an extra few minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What Are Some Good Toppings for This Casserole?
Feel free to get creative! Traditional cheeseburger toppings like pickles, diced tomatoes, and chopped lettuce are popular choices. You can also add sliced jalapeños for heat or even a dollop of sour cream or avocado for extra creaminess.
