Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole

tctqThis casserole brings all the flavors of a classic bacon cheeseburger without the bun, perfect for those on a low-carb or keto diet. It’s rich, cheesy, and packed with savory flavors that make it a hit for weeknight dinners or meal prepping. Enjoy it as a standalone meal or serve it with a fresh side salad to balance the richness.

Why You’ll Love It:

Keto-Friendly: With a focus on protein and healthy fats, this casserole fits perfectly into a low-carb or ketogenic diet.
Easy Meal Prep: Prepare it ahead of time for busy weeknights or make it on the weekend and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of bacon, beef, and cheese is a guaranteed hit with both adults and kids.
Minimal Ingredients: You likely already have most of the ingredients in your pantry or fridge.

Key Ingredients:

Ground Beef: Opt for a blend that’s 80/20 for the right balance of flavor and moisture. You can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Bacon: Cook your bacon until it’s crispy for the best texture. You can prep this ahead of time and keep it in the fridge for quick assembly.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a great depth of flavor, but you can swap in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or a blend for a different twist.
Heavy Cream: Provides a rich, custard-like base. For a slightly lighter version, half-and-half can be used but may affect the thickness slightly.
Garlic and Onion Powder: These are subtle seasonings that add layers of flavor without overpowering the dish. Feel free to add more if you like a stronger garlic or onion taste.

Complete list of ingredients with quantities and instructions is located in the recipe card below

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it is ready for baking as soon as the casserole is assembled.

Cook the Ground Beef:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add 1 pound of ground beef, 2 cloves of minced garlic, and 1 teaspoon of onion powder to the skillet.
Cook, breaking up the beef with a spatula, until it is browned and crumbly, about 5-7 minutes.
Drain any excess grease to prevent the casserole from becoming too oily.

Assemble the Casserole Base:
Spread the cooked ground beef evenly across the bottom of a 9×13-inch casserole pan.
Sprinkle ½ cup of cooked, crumbled bacon over the beef, distributing it evenly.

Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs, ½ cup of heavy cream, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper.
Stir in 8 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese until well combined.

Pour and Top:
Pour the egg and cheese mixture evenly over the beef and bacon in the casserole pan.
Sprinkle the remaining 4 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese on top for an extra cheesy finish.

Bake:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the egg mixture is set. You can check doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean.

Cool and Serve:
Allow the casserole to cool slightly for about 5 minutes before slicing.
Serve warm, and enjoy as is or alongside a side salad for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions:

Pair your Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole with low-carb sides for a balanced meal:

Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the casserole.
Pickles and Relish: Serve with dill pickles or a spoonful of relish to add a tangy contrast.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus or Brussels sprouts are great low-carb options that complement the flavors.
Low-Carb Buns: Turn this casserole into a handheld meal by serving it inside keto-friendly buns or lettuce wraps.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips:

Ensure your casserole stays fresh and delicious with these storage guidelines:

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the oven for best results.
Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Once cooled, slice it into portions and wrap each piece in plastic wrap. Place wrapped pieces in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To maintain the texture, reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes. For quicker reheating, the microwave works, but the casserole may be slightly softer.

Variations:

Looking to customize your casserole or make it fit specific dietary preferences? Try these fun ideas:

Veggie Boost: Add cooked mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to sneak in some extra veggies.
Different Cheeses: Try a blend of mozzarella and provolone for a gooey, stretchy texture.
Spicy Twist: Mix in chopped jalapeños or sprinkle red pepper flakes over the top for heat.
Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free cheese alternative and replace heavy cream with unsweetened almond or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Topping Swap: Substitute the bacon with cooked sausage crumbles or pancetta for a slightly different flavor.

Conclusion:

This Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is everything you love about a classic burger minus the bun. It’s cheesy, satisfying, and loaded with protein, making it a great weeknight meal or a hit at your next gathering. Serve it up with your favorite toppings, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular in your meal rotation.