Low Carb Cheeseburger Bake

This low carb bacon cheeseburger casserole brings all the flavors of your favorite fast food into a comforting, keto-friendly dish that satisfies those burger cravings without the carbs. The melty cheese, savory beef, and crispy bacon create layers of indulgence that make you forget you're eating healthy.

I created this recipe during my first month of keto when I was desperately missing cheeseburgers. My husband who normally avoids diet food went back for seconds and now requests it weekly even though he's not following a low carb lifestyle.

• Ground beef the foundation of any good cheeseburger experience use 80/20 for best flavor
• Onion and garlic they add classic burger joint flavor without adding significant carbs
• Worcestershire sauce provides that umami depth that makes burgers so craveable
• Cream cheese creates a velvety texture and richness that binds everything together
• Heavy cream adds silky smoothness and richness to the cheese sauce
• Cheddar cheese sharp varieties work best to cut through the richness
• Sugar free ketchup delivers that familiar burger taste without added sugars
• Yellow mustard brings the tangy zip that balances the rich cheese and meat
• Eggs they help set the casserole into a sliceable texture
• Bacon because everything is better with crispy bacon bits
• Mozzarella adds that stretchy cheese pull we all love from a good burger
• Chopped pickles they provide brightness and acidity to balance the richness

How To Make Low Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole

Prepare the beef mixture

Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef and continue cooking until the onions turn translucent and the meat is completely browned about 3 more minutes. The beef should no longer show any pink color. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce salt and pepper letting them incorporate completely. If there is excessive fat in the pan drain it off but leave a little for flavor.

Create the cheese sauce

In a medium bowl soften the cream cheese in the microwave for about 30 seconds until it can be easily stirred. Add the heavy cream and whisk vigorously until no lumps remain. The mixture should be smooth and pourable. Mix in the shredded cheddar mustard and sugar free ketchup stirring until well combined. Beat in the eggs which will help the casserole set properly during baking. The sauce should have a rich orange hue reminiscent of special burger sauce.

Assemble the casserole

Spread the seasoned beef mixture evenly across the bottom of your greased baking dish pressing it down gently to create a solid base layer. Pour the cheese sauce mixture over the beef ensuring it covers the entire surface. Use a spatula to spread it evenly if needed. The liquid will seep down into the meat layer which is exactly what you want for flavor infusion. Top the casserole with an even layer of crumbled bacon pieces followed by both the mozzarella and remaining cheddar cheese.

Bake to perfection

Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for exactly 25 to 30 minutes. You'll know it's done when the cheese on top turns golden brown with slightly crispy edges and the center is set but still slightly jiggly. Allow the casserole to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving which helps it set completely and makes it easier to cut into clean portions.

The secret ingredient here is definitely the pickles. I was skeptical at first about adding them but they perfectly mimic that classic burger experience by cutting through the richness with their tangy brightness. My son who claims to hate pickles devours this casserole and has no idea they're responsible for the flavor he loves so much.

Make Ahead and Storage

This casserole is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the entire dish up to the baking stage cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking. Just add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold. Once baked leftover portions store beautifully in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 1 to 2 minutes or until heated through. The flavors actually develop and improve after a day in the refrigerator making this ideal for planned leftovers.

Easy Substitutions

If you need to adapt this recipe there are several simple swaps that work beautifully. Ground turkey can replace beef for a lighter option though I recommend adding a tablespoon of olive oil for richness. For dairy sensitivities substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and dairy free cream cheese alternatives work surprisingly well. No sugar free ketchup? Simply use 1 tablespoon tomato paste mixed with a pinch of sweetener. The yellow mustard can be swapped for dijon if you prefer a more complex flavor. For a spicy kick add diced jalapeños to the meat mixture or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese blend.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole shines as a complete meal on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple sides. A crisp green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides refreshing contrast to the rich casserole. For family members not following low carb offer toasted burger buns on the side they can spoon the casserole onto for a deconstructed burger experience. For an extra special touch serve each portion with additional burger toppings like sliced avocado extra bacon crumbles or a fried egg on top. For a restaurant quality presentation drizzle a small amount of additional sugar free ketchup and mustard over each serving.

The Burger Joint Connection

This casserole was inspired by my favorite local burger restaurant that makes a special sauce mixing ketchup mayo mustard and pickle relish. Their classic cheeseburgers always hit the spot but wreaked havoc on my low carb goals. By deconstructing those flavors into a casserole format I found I could enjoy the essence of their burgers without the carb overload. The combination of the three cheeses mimics the way cheese melts on a hot burger patty while the pickle garnish adds that fresh crisp element that makes burger toppings so enjoyable. Even the small amount of onion in the beef layer recalls the thin slice of onion that makes a burger complete. This dish proves you don't need the bun to enjoy authentic burger flavor.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make this bacon cheeseburger casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the entire casserole up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate it covered before baking. You may need to add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold. Alternatively, you can cook the beef mixture ahead of time and assemble with the remaining ingredients just before baking.

→ How many carbs are in this low carb casserole?

This casserole contains approximately 4-6g of net carbs per serving, making it suitable for most low-carb and ketogenic diets. The exact carb count will vary slightly depending on the specific brands of ingredients used, particularly the ketchup and any added garnishes.

→ What can I substitute for the cream cheese?

If you don't have cream cheese, you can substitute with mascarpone for a similar texture and richness. For a lighter version, Greek yogurt can work, though it will alter the flavor profile slightly. In either case, ensure your substitution is at room temperature for smooth incorporation.

→ What sides pair well with this cheeseburger casserole?

To keep it low carb, serve with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or cauliflower, or steamed broccoli. For those not following a strict low-carb diet, it also pairs wonderfully with sweet potato fries or a crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

→ Can I freeze leftover casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then portion and store in airtight containers or wrap well with aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a 350°F oven until heated through, or microwave individual portions on medium power.

→ How can I add more vegetables to this dish?

You can easily incorporate more vegetables into this casserole. Try adding finely chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the beef mixture while cooking. Spinach can also be wilted into the beef layer. Just be sure to cook off any excess moisture from the vegetables to prevent a watery casserole.