Keto Cheeseburger Casserole: The Perfect Low-Carb Dish for Burger Fanatics

This Keto Cheeseburger Casserole combines all the mouthwatering flavors of a cheeseburger, but without the bun. Perfectly seasoned beef, melted cheese, and savory toppings make this an easy, satisfying keto meal that’s great for weeknight dinners.

My Personal Experience

I’ve been missing cheeseburgers on keto, and when I tried this casserole, it completely satisfied my craving. It was super easy to throw together and smelled amazing while baking! The flavors of the beef, cheese, and creamy sauce really hit the spot, and the smoked paprika added a subtle smokiness that made each bite perfect. It’s become one of my go-to dishes for a hearty meal that feels like a cheat day, but it’s totally keto-friendly. It’s also perfect for batch cooking, so I can have a quick, satisfying meal ready for the week!

Why You’ll Love This Keto Cheeseburger Casserole

• Filling and satisfying: Packed with protein and fat, it keeps you full without any of the carb crashes.
• Family-friendly: Even those not on a keto diet will love this dish.
• Perfect for meal prep: You can make a large batch and freeze individual portions for easy weeknight meals.
• Cheesy and flavorful: A cheeseburger without the bun—what’s not to love?

Ingredients & Substitutions

• Ground Beef – I prefer using 80% lean ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and moisture. You can also use ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option.
• Onion – Dice a medium onion for a sweet and savory base. You can substitute with shallots for a milder flavor.
• Garlic – Fresh garlic cloves are best for maximum flavor, but garlic powder can work as a substitute if needed.
• Eggs – Eggs help bind the casserole and give it structure. There’s no substitute for this ingredient, but you could use flax eggs for a vegan version.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – This is the star of the show! You can substitute with mozzarella or a blend of your favorite cheeses.
• Heavy Cream – Adds richness to the casserole. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute half of it with unsweetened almond milk or coconut cream.
• Cream Cheese – Cream cheese adds richness and creaminess. You can substitute with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a tangy alternative.
• Mustard – A little mustard adds depth and tang. Use Dijon or yellow mustard as a substitute, depending on your preference.
• Smoked Paprika – Gives a smoky flavor. Regular paprika can be used as a substitute if you don’t have smoked.
• Pickled Gherkin – Optional for garnish, but adds a nice tangy crunch. You can substitute with dill pickles if preferred.
• Tzatziki, Ketchup, or Mustard – Serve with your favorite low-carb condiments.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Beef Mixture
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and diced onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent. Add ground beef, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and stir in tomato paste and mustard for added flavor.

2. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

3. Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the cooked beef mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the beef.

4. Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt. Pour this mixture evenly over the beef and cheese in the baking dish.

5. Top with Remaining Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top, adding the chopped pickles if desired for a true cheeseburger taste.

6. Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the cheese is bubbly and golden on top.

7. Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Slice and serve warm.

Tools You’ll Need

• Oven-safe baking dish – To bake the casserole.
• Skillet – For browning the beef and cooking the aromatics.
• Whisk – To blend the egg and cream mixture.

Tips for the Best Keto Cheeseburger Casserole

• Use full-fat cheese: For the best melt and flavor, stick to full-fat cheeses like cheddar.
• Experiment with toppings: Try adding crispy bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
• Make ahead: You can assemble the casserole the night before and bake it when ready to serve.

Storage Instructions

• Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Meal prep: This casserole is great for meal prepping! You can portion it out and freeze individual servings.
• Reheat: Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Freeze: Freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before freezing, and reheat in the oven or microwave.

Got Questions? Find Your Answers Here!

Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the heavy cream for coconut cream and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

Can I use turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely. Ground turkey works just as well if you’re looking for a lighter option.

Is this casserole freezer-friendly?
Yes! Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 1 month.

Nutrition (per serving, serves 6)

• Calories: 380
• Fat: 29g
• Protein: 22g
• Net Carbs: 4g

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