This Easy Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is a winner! It features juicy ground beef, crispy bacon, and melted cheese, all in a tasty, one-pan dish that makes dinner a breeze!
Trust me, when these delicious flavors come together, even non-low-carb eaters will want to dig in. I love serving it with a simple salad for a complete meal. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using 80/20 ground beef gives the casserole great juiciness and flavor. You can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, but expect a slightly different taste.
Bacon: Bacon adds a nice crunch and smokiness. If you’re avoiding pork, turkey bacon works well too! Just keep an eye on the cooking time since it may crisp up faster.
Cream Cheese: This ingredient provides a creamy, rich texture. If you’re looking for dairy-free alternatives, consider using a vegan cream cheese. It might alter the flavor a bit, but it will still work.
Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for a strong cheese flavor. If you want to switch it up, try mozzarella for a milder taste or pepper jack for some heat.
Pickles: Chopped dill pickles add crunch and tanginess! If you’re not a fan, you can leave them out or substitute with jalapeños for a spicy kick.
How Do I Get the Bacon Extra Crispy?
Getting perfectly crispy bacon can be tricky, but here’s a great method! Cook your bacon slowly over medium heat to render the fat without burning it. This allows it to become crispy instead of chewy.
- Start by laying raw bacon strips in a cold skillet. Turn the heat to medium and let it cook slowly.
- Cook for about 8-10 minutes, flipping occasionally, until you reach your desired crispiness.
- Remember to reserve some bacon grease in the pan for added flavor!
Easy Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (preferably 80/20 for juiciness)
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup dill pickles, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup tomato paste or low-carb ketchup
- 1 tsp mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. So, you’ll need about 40-45 minutes in total, making it a quick and satisfying meal option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start off by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready when your casserole is assembled.
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s crispy. Once cooked, remove it and place it on a paper towel to drain excess grease. When it’s cool, crumble it into small pieces. Make sure to keep about 1 tablespoon of the bacon grease in the skillet for flavor.
3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the reserved bacon grease. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, making sure not to burn it.
4. Brown the Beef:
Now, it’s time to add the ground beef to the skillet. Season it with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook it thoroughly until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. If there’s extra fat, feel free to drain it.
5. Mix the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, tomato paste (or low-carb ketchup), mustard, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s all smooth and creamy.
6. Combine Everything:
Next, fold the cooked ground beef, onion, garlic mixture, and crumbled bacon into the cream cheese mixture. If you’re including pickles, stir those in now too!
7. Bake the Casserole:
Transfer the combined mixture into a greased 9×9-inch (or similarly sized) baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top it with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese. Bake it in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the casserole is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if you like, and serve it warm. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or steamed low-carb veggies!
Enjoy your comforting, easy-to-make low-carb bacon cheeseburger casserole!
FAQ for Easy Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for beef if you prefer a leaner option! Just make sure to season it well as turkey has a milder flavor compared to beef. Cooking time may be slightly less, so keep an eye on it!
Is There a Vegetarian Alternative for This Recipe?
Definitely! You can use sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based ground meat substitute to replace the beef. For added protein, consider including beans or lentils. Adjust the seasonings as needed to ensure a tasty flavor!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just make sure to reheat thoroughly when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Casserole?
Absolutely! Adding veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach can enhance the flavor and nutrition of the dish. Just sauté any firmer vegetables with the onions to soften them before mixing them in.