Low Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe

If you are on the hunt for a comforting yet health-conscious meal, the Low Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is an absolute game-changer. This casserole combines all the best flavors of a classic cheeseburger—crispy bacon, juicy ground beef, sharp cheddar cheese—without the carbs weighing you down. It’s rich, hearty, and unbelievably satisfying, perfect for anyone who loves indulging in cheeseburgers but wants to keep things low carb. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just craving a cozy dinner, this dish will have you coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What’s fantastic about this recipe is how simple and essential each ingredient is. Every item plays a crucial role, whether it’s bringing robust flavor, creamy texture, or that perfect golden color. Together, they create a casserole that’s both hearty and downright irresistible.

• 1 lb ground beef: The meaty foundation packed with savory richness.
• 6 slices of bacon: Adds crispy smoky crunch that elevates the flavor.
• 1 small onion, diced: Brings sweetness and depth once sautéed.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: For a subtle kick and aromatic punch.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: Makes the casserole luxuriously creamy and smooth.
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Enhances creaminess while adding a slight tang.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully to bind everything together.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Seasoning that sharpens all other flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds balanced heat and complexity.
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika: Infuses a subtle smoky warmth without extra carbs.
• 2 cups chopped lettuce (optional): Fresh crunch if you want a burger salad vibe.
• Diced tomatoes (optional): Brightens up the dish with juicy, fresh bursts.

How to Make Low Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Start by crisping the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat. This will create the smoky, savory backbone of the casserole. Once the bacon is perfectly crunchy, transfer it onto paper towels to drain and later crumble it into bite-sized bits that will sprinkle throughout the dish.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Drain most of the bacon fat, leaving just about a tablespoon in the pan to retain that signature smoky flavor. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent and fragrant. This step builds a subtle but essential flavor base for your ground beef.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Break it up with a spatula to ensure even browning and cook until there’s no pink left. Drain any excess fat if needed; the beef should be juicy but not greasy at this point.

Step 4: Mix Creamy Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, mayonnaise, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika until silky smooth. This mixture is what gives your casserole that irresistible creamy texture and gentle smoky heat.

Step 5: Combine Beef and Cheese

Stir 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese directly into the hot beef mixture, letting it melt gently. This step warms the cheese just right before layering everything in the baking dish.

Step 6: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the beef and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Pour the creamy sauce evenly on top, then sprinkle the crumbled bacon and the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over everything. This layered assembly promises cheesy, smoky goodness in every bite.

Step 7: Bake Until Bubbly

Pop the casserole into an oven preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese on top is melted, gooey, and just starting to bubble and brown around the edges. Let it rest a few minutes to settle before serving.

How to Serve Low Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole

Garnishes

To truly capture the cheeseburger spirit, top your casserole with fresh chopped lettuce and diced tomatoes. They add a refreshing crunch and light contrast that balance the rich casserole wonderfully.

Side Dishes

This casserole is nutritious and filling on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or roasted low-carb vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts can make for an even more satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this Low Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole in individual ramekins or small skillets. You can also spoon it over a bed of cauliflower rice for a complete low-carb feast that feels indulgent but stays healthy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Low Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator and can keep well for up to 3-4 days. This makes it a fantastic option for quick lunches or easy dinners later in the week.

Freezing

You can freeze this casserole after it has cooled completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or use a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn. When needed, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through and cheese is bubbly again, about 15-20 minutes. Microwaving works too, but the oven helps keep the texture perfect without making it soggy.

FAQs

Can I use turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great lean alternatives and will still give you that comforting, hearty vibe. Just be mindful they might cook a bit faster and be less fatty than beef, so adjust seasoning accordingly.

Is this recipe suitable for keto diets?

Yes, this Low Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole fits perfectly into ketogenic diets thanks to its low carb count and high fat content from cheese, bacon, and cream. Just avoid adding any high-carb sides if you’re strictly keto.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can modify it by using dairy-free cheese alternatives and substituting heavy cream with coconut cream. The texture and flavor will vary slightly but can still be deliciously satisfying.

How spicy is this casserole?

This casserole is more on the mild side, with just a hint of smokiness from the paprika and a subtle peppery kick. If you like heat, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne or some chopped jalapeños into the beef mixture.

What if I don’t have mayonnaise on hand?

Mayonnaise adds tang and creaminess, but if you don’t have it, sour cream or Greek yogurt can be a good substitute. Just make sure whichever you use blends smoothly into the sauce for that signature casserole texture.

Final Thoughts

This Low Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a low-carb celebration of one of America’s favorite comfort foods. Rich, cheesy, and packed with flavor, it’s perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or when you simply want a filling dish without the carbs dragging you down. Dive in, savor every bite, and treasure how easy it is to make something so delicious from such simple ingredients!

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