There’s something incredibly satisfying about a casserole, especially when it combines the savory, comforting flavors of a cheeseburger with the convenience of a single dish. The Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is a prime example of how to enjoy a hearty, indulgent meal without compromising on your low-carb goals. This dish marries the rich flavors of ground beef, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese with a creamy egg base, creating a deliciously filling casserole that’s perfect for any meal of the day.
I first encountered this casserole recipe during a period when I was exploring low-carb options while still craving the classic comfort foods I grew up with. The idea of combining a bacon cheeseburger with the convenience of a casserole was nothing short of a revelation. I recall the delight of my family as they tasted the casserole for the first time—each bite was met with praise and requests for seconds. It quickly became a staple in our household, especially on busy weeknights when I wanted something satisfying yet easy to prepare.
This casserole is not just for those following a low-carb diet; it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings the classic flavors of a cheeseburger to the table in a convenient, no-fuss format. Whether you’re a keto enthusiast, a busy parent, or simply someone who enjoys a good, hearty meal, this dish has something for everyone.
Ingredients
2 pounds ground beef
2 garlic cloves, minced
½ teaspoon onion powder
1 pound cooked bacon, cut into pieces
8 eggs
1 cup heavy cream
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 package (12 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Directions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Oven
Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). This ensures that the casserole will cook evenly and that the top will achieve a perfect golden-brown color.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
Prepare the Skillet:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. This is where you’ll cook the ground beef to get it nice and crumbly.
Cook the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the hot skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula or wooden spoon. Stir in the minced garlic and onion powder as the beef cooks. This adds depth of flavor and ensures that every bite of the beef is seasoned well.
Continue cooking until the beef is fully browned and crumbly, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. The beef should no longer be pink, and it should have a nice, caramelized appearance.
Drain the Fat:
Once the beef is cooked, drain the excess fat from the skillet. You can do this by carefully pouring the fat out or using a slotted spoon to transfer the beef to a plate lined with paper towels.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Prepare the Casserole Dish:
Spread the cooked ground beef evenly across the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish. This forms the base layer of your casserole.
Add the Bacon:
Sprinkle the cut-up bacon pieces over the beef. The bacon adds a delightful crunch and smoky flavor that complements the beef and cheese.
Mix the Egg Base:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream until well blended. This mixture will form the custard-like base of the casserole.
Season with salt and black pepper, then stir in 8 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese. This cheese will melt into the egg mixture, creating a creamy, cheesy consistency.
Pour the Mixture:
Pour the egg and cheese mixture evenly over the beef and bacon in the casserole dish. This ensures that every bit of the casserole is infused with the creamy, cheesy flavor.
Top with Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining 4 ounces of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. This will melt and create a golden, bubbly topping during baking.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
Bake:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. The casserole is done when the top is golden brown and the egg mixture is set. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean, indicating that the casserole has cooked through.
Cool Slightly:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set up a bit more, making it easier to cut into neat squares.
Variations and Substitutions
Vegetable Additions: For added nutrition and flavor, consider mixing in some chopped vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. Sauté these vegetables before adding them to the beef to ensure they are cooked through.
Different Cheeses: While cheddar cheese provides a classic flavor, you can experiment with other types of cheese like mozzarella, Swiss, or pepper jack to change up the flavor profile.
Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture before baking.
Low-FODMAP Option: If you’re sensitive to garlic or onions, consider using garlic-infused olive oil or a garlic substitute that’s friendly to low-FODMAP diets.
Conclusion
The Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is not just a meal; it’s an experience that combines the rich flavors of a classic cheeseburger with the convenience of a casserole. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a satisfying, low-carb meal that doesn’t skimp on taste or texture.
This recipe is a great way to enjoy the flavors of a cheeseburger in a format that’s easy to prepare and serve. Whether you’re cooking for a family, hosting a gathering, or just craving a hearty meal, this casserole is sure to please. Its blend of beef, bacon, and cheese creates a comforting dish that’s both filling and flavorful, while the low-carb elements make it a fitting choice for various dietary preferences. Enjoy the savory satisfaction and simplicity of this delightful casserole, and let it become a new favorite in your recipe rotation!
