Low Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe

ByLucy
Jump to Recipe· 4.7 from 6 reviews

If you’ve ever craved a juicy cheeseburger but want to keep things low-key with your carbs, I’ve got just the thing for you: a Low Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe that’s genuinely fan-freaking-tastic. This recipe captures all those classic, savory flavors you love in a cheeseburger—bacon, ground beef, pickles, and plenty of melty cheese—without the bun. I stumbled on this dish during a busy weeknight when I needed something comforting yet guilt-free, and now it’s basically a staple in my kitchen. Stick with me, and I’ll walk you through the ins and outs so you nail it on your first try!

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Why This Recipe Works

  • Simple but Flavorful: The combo of bacon, beef, and pickles delivers that unmistakable cheeseburger taste you can enjoy without the bun.
  • Low Carb Comfort Food: Satisfy your cravings guilt-free with this keto-friendly spin on a classic.
  • Easy to Make: No fancy techniques—just browning meat, mixing, and baking, perfect for weeknight dinners.
  • Customizable: You can tweak the pickles, bacon amount, or cheese to suit your taste buds perfectly.
Low Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole, keto cheeseburger casserole, low carb dinner ideas, bacon cheeseburger skillet, healthy cheeseburger bake - A clear glass rectangular baking dish on a white marbled surface contains a layered casserole. The bottom layer is made of dark brown cooked ground meat. On top of that are pieces of cooked green vegetables and small chunks of dark red meat. The top layer is sprinkled with shredded bright orange cheese, covering the surface unevenly. A blue and white striped cloth is partly visible around the dish. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 this …

Ingredients & Why They Work

Every ingredient in this Low Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe plays a key role to bring out vibrant cheeseburger flavors while keeping carbs low. When shopping, I recommend looking for good quality bacon and cream cheese because they really amp up the dish’s richness.

Low Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole, keto cheeseburger casserole, low carb dinner ideas, bacon cheeseburger skillet, healthy cheeseburger bake - Flat lay of roughly chopped raw bacon strips, a mound of fresh raw ground beef, a small heap of coarse salt and black peppercorns, peeled whole garlic cloves, half of a freshly chopped white onion, a small white ceramic bowl of smooth cream cheese, a small white ceramic bowl of rich red ketchup, a small white ceramic bowl of dark Worcestershire sauce, six green dill pickle slices arranged neatly, two whole uncracked brown eggs, a small white ceramic bowl filled with thick heavy whipping cream, a small pile of shredded bright orange cheddar cheese, all placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997
  • Bacon: Adds smoky, crispy goodness—don’t skip it and try to get thick-cut for maximum texture.
  • Ground beef: The base of the dish, providing hearty flavor and texture; I usually go with 80/20 for juiciness.
  • Seasoning salt & garlic powder: These simple spices elevate the meat’s natural richness without overpowering it.
  • Onion & garlic: Adds aromatic depth and balances the meat’s savoriness nicely.
  • Cream cheese: Melts to give a creamy, dreamy consistency that turns the casserole irresistibly smooth.
  • No sugar added ketchup: Brings sweet tanginess without extra carbs—don’t sub regular ketchup, which is sweeter!
  • Worcestershire sauce: A little umami magic that ties the flavors together beautifully.
  • Dill pickles: The secret ingredient—brings crunch and that classic cheeseburger zing.
  • Eggs & heavy whipping cream: These bind the casserole and make it perfectly custardy in the middle.
  • Shredded cheddar cheese: Use sharp cheddar for boldness and melty deliciousness on top and inside.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of the things I love about this Low Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe is how easy it is to personalize. Over time, I’ve played around with amounts and added extras to make it just right for my family’s tastes, and you can too!

  • More veggies: Sometimes, I sneak in chopped bell peppers or mushrooms with the onions for extra texture.
  • Spice it up: Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce can give this casserole a fiery kick if you’re into that.
  • Different cheeses: Try swapping out cheddar for Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend for a slightly different cheesy flavor.
  • Make it dairy-free: Use cream cheese alternatives and cheese substitutes to fit dairy-free needs—experiment for what melts best.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Low Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Cook That Bacon Just Right

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then cook the bacon until it’s nice and crisp—this usually takes me about 8–10 minutes in a skillet or oven. Once cooked, drain the bacon on paper towels and roughly chop it. Crispy bacon adds so much flavor and contrast to the creamy beef mixture, so don’t rush this step!

Step 2: Brown the Beef with Aromatics and Seasoning

Place your ground beef in a skillet over medium heat and season it with seasoning salt, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chopped onion and garlic early on so they soften and infuse their flavor as the beef browns. Use a spatula to break the meat into small crumbles. Cook until it’s browned all over—no pink should remain.

Step 3: Mix in the Cream Cheese and Flavor Boosters

Drain excess grease and return the beef mixture to the heat on medium-high. Add cream cheese, no sugar added ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything together until the cream cheese melts and you have a creamy, flavorful mixture that’s perfect for the casserole base.

Step 4: Assemble Your Casserole

Spread your beef mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the chopped crispy bacon and chopped dill pickles evenly on top—those pickles definitely bring the classic cheeseburger zing. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, then pour this custardy mixture evenly over the beef and bacon. Finish with the remaining shredded cheese sprinkled on top.

Step 5: Bake Until Gooey and Golden

Bake the casserole for about 20 minutes until the cheese on top is fully melted and bubbly. When you take it out, let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving so it sets up nicely—it’ll slice better and taste even better!

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Tips from My Kitchen

  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When browning beef, keep space so it sears properly instead of steaming.
  • Use Full-Fat Cream Cheese: It melts smoother and gives the casserole a richer texture than low-fat versions.
  • Pick the Right Pickles: Dill chips work best—sweet pickles just don’t have that punch.
  • Let It Rest: Cooling before serving helps the casserole hold its shape and makes slicing easier.

How to Serve Low Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe

Low Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole, keto cheeseburger casserole, low carb dinner ideas, bacon cheeseburger skillet, healthy cheeseburger bake - The dish is a baked casserole inside a clear glass rectangular dish placed on a woven mat. It has a thick top layer of melted orange and white cheese, with some browned spots indicating it was baked until golden. Below the cheese, bits of cooked ground meat and some green jalapeño slices peek through, showing a mixed texture of gooey cheese and tender meat. The overall top layer is uneven with small pockets and clusters of cheese and meat, giving a hearty and rich look. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

I usually garnish mine with a little fresh chopped chive or green onion for a pop of color and a touch of fresh oniony brightness. Sometimes I add a dollop of sugar-free mustard or a sprinkle of extra pickles on top just like you get at a burger joint!

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs beautifully with simple low carb sides like a crisp green salad or roasted Brussels sprouts. Sometimes I whip up a batch of garlic butter sautéed green beans or serve it alongside some fresh tomato slices drizzled with olive oil for a fresh finish.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, I’ve served this in individual ramekins, topped with a mini pickle spear and crispy bacon bits sprinkled on top — it’s a fun way to make it feel like a special dish. It also works well layered in a trifle-type clear dish so guests can see all the delicious layers!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers store wonderfully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. I always let the casserole cool completely before covering it so the cheese sauce doesn’t get watery. It reheats nicely without losing its creamy texture.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this casserole a couple of times without any trouble. To freeze, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, I pop single servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or heat the whole casserole covered with foil in a 350°F oven until warmed through (about 15-20 minutes). Keeping it covered helps retain moisture and keeps cheese melty.

FAQs

  1. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

    Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be swapped in for ground beef if you prefer a leaner option. Just be mindful they have less fat, so you might want to add a little olive oil when browning to keep things moist and flavorful.

  2. Is this Low Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe suitable for keto?

    Yes! This dish is perfectly aligned with keto because it’s high in fats and proteins while keeping carbs very low thanks to swapping out the bun and using no sugar added ketchup.

  3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

    Definitely. You can prepare the entire casserole up to a day in advance, keep it refrigerated, and then bake it when you’re ready. This makes weeknight dinners a breeze!

  4. What can I substitute for the dill pickles?

    If dill pickles aren’t your thing, you can try bread-and-butter pickles for a sweeter tang or even omit them altogether, though I think the pickles add essential flavor that really makes this casserole taste like a cheeseburger.

Final Thoughts

This Low Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe is one of those meals I find myself going back to time and again when I want something hearty, comforting, and super easy. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser whether you’re serving family or friends. I love how it nails that cheeseburger flavor without the carbs and fuss of a bun, and once you make it, I’m confident you’ll feel the same. So, pull on your apron and try it out—you’re in for a delicious treat that’s ready in under an hour!

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Low Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.7 from 6 reviews
  • Author: Lucy
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 10 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Carb
Print Recipe

Description

This Low Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is a hearty, savory dish perfect for a comforting meal. It combines crispy bacon, seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese sauce, and flavorful pickles, all baked to cheesy perfection. Ideal for low carb diet enthusiasts looking for a satisfying, easy-to-make casserole.

Ingredients

Meat and Vegetables

  • 1/2 pound bacon, roughly chopped
  • 1 1/2 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, chopped
  • 6 dill pickle chips, sliced

Seasonings and Sauces

  • 1 teaspoon seasoning salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons no sugar added ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Dairy and Eggs

  • 2 oz cream cheese
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the casserole.
  2. Cook Bacon: Cook the bacon according to package instructions until crispy, then roughly chop and set aside for topping.
  3. Brown Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add ground beef and season with seasoning salt, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add chopped onion and garlic. Brown the meat by breaking it up and stirring until fully cooked.
  4. Drain and Return Meat: Drain any excess grease and return the meat to the skillet over medium-high heat to continue cooking.
  5. Add Creamy Ingredients: Add cream cheese, no sugar added ketchup, and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet. Stir until everything is combined and heated through.
  6. Assemble Casserole Base: Remove skillet from heat and spread the meat mixture evenly into a greased 9×13 baking dish.
  7. Add Toppings: Evenly distribute the chopped bacon and sliced dill pickles over the meat layer.
  8. Prepare Egg Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy whipping cream, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
  9. Pour Egg Mixture: Pour the egg and cheese mixture evenly over the meat, bacon, and pickle layers in the baking dish.
  10. Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of the casserole.
  11. Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  12. Cool Before Serving: Allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes before serving to let it set slightly.

Notes

  • You can adjust the amount of pickles based on your preference for tanginess.
  • For a crispier bacon texture, cook bacon separately and add immediately before baking.
  • Use full-fat cream cheese and heavy cream for the best creamy texture and flavor.
  • Substitute cheddar cheese with a sharp or smoked cheese for a different flavor profile.
  • If you prefer spicier flavors, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes while seasoning the beef.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 4 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 20 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg

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