Name: Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef ((85–90% lean for balance)); 6 strips bacon (diced); ½ medium onion (finely chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided); 4 large eggs; ½ cups heavy cream ((or unsweetened almond milk for lighter option)); 1 tbsp yellow mustard; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper

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When cravings hit, most people think of burgers and fries, but that usually means extra carbs, buns, and a crash later. This low-carb bacon cheeseburger casserole flips that script. You get the same smoky bacon, juicy ground beef, and golden melted cheese you’d expect from a diner-style burger, but without the bread, fries, or guilt.

For anyone following a low-carb or high-protein diet, this dish is more than just comfort food, it’s a reliable weeknight staple. Each slice delivers hearty protein (to keep you full) and balanced fats (to satisfy cravings), while staying within keto and low-carb guidelines. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week, serving a family dinner, or just want something that feels indulgent without breaking your diet, this casserole delivers.

Ingredients for Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole

1 pound ground beef (85–90% lean for balance)
6 strips bacon, diced
½ medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
4 large eggs
½ cup heavy cream (or unsweetened almond milk for lighter option)
1 tablespoon yellow mustard
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional garnishes: chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, fresh parsley

Substitution notes:

Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Colby Jack, or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner, higher-protein option.
Add mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrients without spiking carbs.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon, leaving bacon fat in the pan.
Sauté onion and garlic in bacon fat until translucent and fragrant (2–3 minutes).
Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Drain excess grease.
Combine with bacon and set aside to cool slightly.
Whisk eggs, cream, mustard, Worcestershire, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl until smooth.
Assemble casserole: Spread beef mixture in a greased 8×8 dish. Sprinkle with half the cheese. Pour egg mixture evenly over top. Finish with remaining cheese.
Bake for 25–30 minutes until set in the center and cheese is bubbly and golden.
Cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with green onions and tomatoes if desired.

Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Cheeseburger Casserole

Avoid watery texture: Drain beef thoroughly and avoid adding too many watery veggies.
Extra crispy bacon: Cook slightly longer than usual, bacon softens once baked.
Cheese layering tip: Always add some cheese under and over the custard for that gooey center + golden crust combo.

Why is my casserole watery?

Usually it’s from excess grease or vegetables releasing moisture. Always drain beef fully, and pre-sauté veggies like mushrooms or zucchini before adding.

Substitutions & Variations

Protein swaps: Ground turkey or chicken lowers fat but keeps protein high.
Cheese options: Mozzarella for milder flavor, pepper jack for spice, or dairy-free cheese for lactose-sensitive eaters.
Veggie add-ins: Spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms boost nutrition while staying low-carb.
Meal prep hack: Bake in muffin tins for portable, portion-controlled mini casseroles.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a simple green salad with vinaigrette, acidity balances the richness.
Add roasted low-carb veggies like cauliflower, broccoli, or zucchini on the side.
For a burger-inspired plate, serve with pickles, sugar-free ketchup, or mustard drizzle.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I freeze bacon cheeseburger casserole?

Yes. Cool completely, then portion into airtight containers or wrap the whole dish in foil + plastic wrap. Freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How do I reheat leftovers?

Best method: oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes. Microwave works for quick reheating but may soften the cheese topping.

Is this keto-friendly?

Yes, at only ~4g net carbs per serving, this fits into keto macros while delivering high protein and healthy fats.

Nutrition Information (per serving, approximate)

Calories: 400
Protein: 28g
Fat: 30g
Carbs: 5g
Fiber: 1g
Net Carbs: 4g

This low-carb bacon cheeseburger casserole is proof you don’t need buns or fries to satisfy a burger craving. Each serving packs in over 28 grams of protein, enough to keep you fueled for hours, while keeping carbs low for keto or low-carb goals. It’s indulgent enough for family dinners yet practical enough for meal prep.

So next time you’re looking for comfort food that won’t derail your diet, pull out this recipe. Try it as-is or experiment with your favorite burger toppings baked right in. And when you do, let me know, did you go classic cheddar-bacon, or did you add your own twist?

Print this recipe, save it for later, and share with anyone looking for a high-protein, low-carb dinner idea that never gets old.