Based on the search results, I’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to the Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole. This casserole is a popular comfort food that captures all the flavors of a classic bacon cheeseburger in a convenient, keto-friendly dish.
📝 Classic Recipe Overview
Here are the key details for a standard serving of this dish, which makes 6-12 portions depending on the recipe.
· Prep Time: 5-30 minutes
· Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
· Oven Temperature: 350°F (175°C)
· Key Macros (per serving): High in protein and fat, very low in carbohydrates
🥘 Core Ingredients and Common Variations
The dish is built around a few essential components, with plenty of room for customization.
The Foundation:
· Protein: Ground beef is the most common base, often using an 80/20 blend for flavor. Ground turkey is a popular leaner alternative.
· Bacon: Adds a smoky, crispy element. Regular or turkey bacon can be used.
· Cheese: Shredded cheddar is standard, but other cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella work well.
· Binding Agent: A mixture of eggs and a dairy component (like heavy cream, mayonnaise, or cream cheese) holds the casserole together and creates a creamy texture.
Popular Flavor Additions & Swaps:
· Vegetables & Pickles: Diced onion, garlic, tomatoes, or dill pickles/relish add classic burger toppings.
· Sauces & Seasonings: Mustard, Worcestershire sauce, no-sugar-added ketchup, and seasoned salt are common flavor builders.
· Creative Twists: For variety, you can add diced jalapeños, use a sugar-free BBQ sauce drizzle, or mix in vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Cooking Method
The process is straightforward and designed for minimal cleanup.
1. Prep & Cook Meat: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Dice and cook bacon until crisp, then set aside. In the same skillet, brown the ground beef with aromatics like onion and garlic. Drain excess grease from both.
2. Combine & Layer: Spread the cooked meat mixture evenly in a greased baking dish (typically 9×13-inch or 8×8-inch). Stir in the cooked bacon pieces.
3. Make the Custard: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, your chosen dairy (cream, mayo, etc.), and seasonings until smooth. Many recipes also mix part of the cheese into this custard.
4. Assemble & Bake: Pour the egg mixture over the meat in the baking dish, ensuring it seeps into all the gaps. Top with the remaining shredded cheese. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
5. Rest & Serve: Let the casserole cool for 5-15 minutes before slicing. This makes it easier to cut and allows the flavors to settle.
📊 Nutritional Profile and Dietary Benefits
This casserole is designed to fit within low-carb and ketogenic dietary frameworks. A typical serving provides:
· High-Quality Protein: Roughly 28-32 grams per serving, which helps promote satiety and supports muscle maintenance.
· Healthy Fats: Around 43-53 grams, primarily from the meat, cheese, and cream. These fats are a key energy source on a keto diet.
· Very Low Net Carbs: Generally 3-4 grams per serving, achieved by omitting the bun and using low-carb sauces.
· Essential Vitamins & Minerals: It is a good source of Vitamin B12, Calcium, Selenium, and Zinc.
💡 Practical Tips for Success
· For Meal Prep: You can brown the meat and prepare the egg mixture a day ahead. Assemble and refrigerate, then bake when ready. Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 4 days or can be frozen for 1-2 months.
· Avoiding an “Eggy” Taste: The eggs primarily act as a binder. With only 4-8 eggs in an entire casserole, the cheeseburger flavors dominate and the egg taste is not prominent.
· Making it Keto-Friendly: Be sure to check labels on ingredients like ketchup and Worcestershire sauce for hidden sugars. Opt for “no sugar added” varieties.
❓ Answering Common Questions
· Can I make it ahead of time? Yes. You can fully assemble the casserole and refrigerate it overnight before baking.
· What can I serve it with? It’s a complete meal on its own, but pairs well with a fresh green salad, cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or avocado slices.
· Can I make it dairy-free or vegan? This is challenging as the recipe relies heavily on cheese, cream, and eggs. Substitutions would significantly alter the texture and flavor.
✨ Conclusion
The Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s a practical solution for satisfying classic comfort food cravings while adhering to dietary goals. Its simplicity, versatility, and family-friendly appeal have made it a favorite. As one home cook noted, it’s a dish you can crave and make repeatedly.
If you’re interested in a specific variation—like a spicy version, one using ground turkey, or a different sauce base—let me know, and I can provide more detailed instructions for that twist.
