Low Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole

Low-carb bacon cheeseburger casserole transforms the classic American favorite into a hearty, keto-friendly dish that sacrifices none of the savory satisfaction of the original. This comforting creation layers seasoned ground beef with crispy bacon and a rich, creamy egg mixture that bakes into a decadent, cheese-topped delight. Perfect for those following ketogenic or low-carb lifestyles, this protein-packed casserole delivers all the indulgent flavors of a loaded burger without the bun – creating a satisfying meal that will please the entire family while keeping carb counts impressively low.

I discovered this recipe during my first month of keto eating when I was desperately missing my favorite comfort foods. The first time I made it, my family didn't even realize it was a "diet" dish – they simply devoured it and asked for seconds! It's now in our regular dinner rotation, even when we're not specifically counting carbs.

Ingredients and Selection Tips

• Ground Beef: Choose 80/20 for the best flavor; the fat adds richness and prevents the casserole from becoming dry
• Bacon: Thick-cut provides more substantial texture; pre-cook until crispy for the best results
• Cheddar Cheese: Freshly shredded melts more smoothly than pre-packaged; sharp varieties provide the most flavor
• Heavy Whipping Cream: Adds luxurious richness; don't substitute with half-and-half or milk
• Eggs: Create the perfect binding agent while adding protein; bring to room temperature for best results
• Seasonings: Simple garlic and onion powder perfectly complement the beef without overwhelming

Pin it

Detailed Cooking Instructions

Step 1:

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring it reaches the proper temperature before baking. This consistent heat allows the casserole to cook evenly throughout, setting the egg mixture properly while melting the cheese to perfection.

Step 2:

Cook 1 pound of bacon until crispy using your preferred method – oven-baking on a rack over a sheet pan works particularly well for large amounts. Once cooled slightly, chop or crumble the bacon into bite-sized pieces. Preparing the bacon first allows you to use the rendered bacon fat to cook your beef for an extra layer of flavor.

Step 3:

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown 2 pounds of ground beef, breaking it into crumbles with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Add 2 minced garlic cloves and ½ teaspoon of onion powder during the final minute of cooking to bloom their flavors without burning the garlic.

Step 4:

Once the beef is completely browned with no pink remaining, carefully drain off excess fat. While some fat adds flavor and moisture, too much can make the casserole greasy. Leave just enough to keep the meat juicy.

Step 5:

Transfer the seasoned ground beef to a 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading it in an even layer across the bottom. This creates the substantial base of your casserole and ensures every bite contains beefy goodness.

Step 6:

Evenly distribute the bacon pieces over the beef layer, creating a second layer of savory flavor. The combination of beef and bacon provides the classic cheeseburger experience that makes this casserole so satisfying.

Step 7:

In a medium bowl, thoroughly whisk together 8 large eggs and 1 cup of heavy whipping cream until well combined. Season this mixture with ½ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, adjusting to your taste preferences.

Step 8:

Stir 8 ounces (about 2 cups) of shredded cheddar cheese into the egg mixture. The cheese will integrate throughout the casserole as it bakes, creating pockets of melty goodness rather than just sitting on top.

Step 9:

Pour this egg and cheese mixture evenly over the beef and bacon layers in the casserole dish. The liquid should seep down between the meat, ensuring that when baked, it binds everything together into cohesive slices.

Step 10:

Sprinkle the remaining 4 ounces (about 1 cup) of shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the top of the casserole. This creates a beautiful golden, bubbly crust during baking. Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the center is set but still slightly jiggly.

I discovered these tips through my own experimentation with this recipe. The first time I made it, I cut into it immediately and the slices didn't hold together well. Now I always allow for that brief resting period, which makes for much neater, more satisfying portions.

Pin it

The first time I served this casserole to friends following various eating styles, I was amazed at how enthusiastically it was received by everyone – not just those avoiding carbs. What I love most about this recipe is how it transforms a typically carb-heavy favorite into something that's equally satisfying but fits within more restrictive eating plans. The combination of savory beef, crispy bacon, and cheesy egg creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures that truly mimics the experience of biting into a loaded bacon cheeseburger. While certainly rich, it's also incredibly filling, meaning a small portion satisfies even hearty appetites. Whether you're committed to keto eating or simply looking for a comforting, protein-rich meal, this casserole delivers satisfaction without sacrifice.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the beef mixture and cook the bacon ahead of time, then store them separately in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. When ready to bake, assemble the casserole with the egg mixture and cheese, then bake as directed. You may need to add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if the ingredients are cold from the refrigerator.

→ What can I substitute for the no-sugar-added ketchup?

If you don't have no-sugar-added ketchup, you can make your own by combining 2 tablespoons of tomato paste with a pinch of sweetener (like stevia or erythritol), a splash of vinegar, and a dash of garlic powder and onion powder. Alternatively, you could use 1 tablespoon of tomato paste plus a few drops of liquid sweetener.

→ Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well after baking. Let it cool completely, then cut into portions and freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the microwave or oven until heated through.

→ What sides go well with this low-carb casserole?

Since this casserole is rich and filling, pair it with lighter side dishes like a simple green salad, steamed broccoli, cauliflower rice, or roasted zucchini. For those not strictly following low-carb, a side of sweet potato fries would complement the burger flavors nicely.

→ Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Absolutely! Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach would make great additions. Add them when cooking the onions and garlic. For pickles lovers, you could also add 1/4 cup of diced dill pickles to the beef mixture to really enhance that cheeseburger flavor.