Low-Carb Turkey Bacon Cheeseburger

This low-carb turkey bacon cheeseburger casserole transforms everyone's favorite fast food into a satisfying keto-friendly meal that doesn't sacrifice flavor. The combination of savory ground beef, crispy turkey bacon, and melty cheddar creates all the taste of a burger without the bun.

I first created this recipe when my family started our low-carb journey and my kids were missing their favorite burger takeout. Now they request this casserole over actual burgers most nights.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: delivers that classic burger flavor and provides plenty of protein
• Turkey bacon: offers a leaner alternative to regular bacon while still adding that essential smoky flavor
• Onion and garlic: create a flavor foundation that enhances the meaty taste
• Cheddar cheese: forms a golden bubbly crust that makes this casserole irresistible
• Eggs and heavy cream: work together to create a rich custard that binds everything together
• Mustard and ketchup: infuse the dish with authentic burger flavor in every bite
• Olive oil for sautéing: helps develop deeper flavor in the vegetables and meat
• Optional toppings like pickles lettuce and tomato: add freshness and complete the burger experience

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Your Baking Dish:

Preheat your oven to 350°F and thoroughly grease a 9×13 baking dish to prevent sticking. Make sure to get the corners and sides well as the cheese can adhere there during baking.

Create The Flavor Base:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers. Add the diced onion and minced garlic cooking for about 5 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant. This step builds the foundational flavor for your casserole.

Brown The Beef:

Add ground beef to your aromatics breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook thoroughly until no pink remains about 7 to 8 minutes. Season generously with salt and pepper remembering that good seasoning at this stage is crucial for a flavorful final dish.

Incorporate The Bacon:

Fold the chopped cooked turkey bacon pieces into the beef mixture ensuring even distribution. The bacon should be precooked until crisp for the best texture contrast in the finished casserole. Remove the skillet from heat once combined.

Layer The Base:

Transfer your meat mixture to the prepared baking dish spreading it in an even layer to ensure consistent cooking. Sprinkle half of your shredded cheddar over the warm meat which will begin to melt slightly and bind with the meat mixture.

Create The Custard:

In a medium bowl whisk together eggs heavy cream mustard and ketchup until completely smooth with no streaks of egg visible. This custard will set during baking creating a rich creamy texture throughout the casserole.

Assemble And Top:

Pour the egg mixture evenly over the meat and cheese layer taking care to cover all areas. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese distributing it evenly for that perfect golden top.

Bake To Perfection:

Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes. You'll know it's done when the edges are bubbling the center is set and the cheese on top has become golden and slightly crispy.

Save This

The turkey bacon is truly the secret ingredient in this recipe. While regular bacon works too I find turkey bacon provides just the right amount of smokiness without overwhelming the beef flavor which reminds me of those backyard cookouts my dad used to host every summer.

Storage Solutions

This casserole stores exceptionally well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days making it perfect for meal prep. Allow it to cool completely before covering with foil or transferring portions to airtight containers. When reheating individual portions microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. For the whole casserole cover with foil and reheat in a 325°F oven for about 15-20 minutes until the center is hot. The casserole also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months just be sure to thaw completely in the refrigerator before reheating.

Smart Substitutions

This recipe adapts beautifully to what you have on hand. Ground turkey can replace beef for a lighter option though you may want to add a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce to enhance the flavor. Plant-based ground meat works for a vegetarian version but add extra seasonings since it can be more bland. Dairy-free cheese alternatives melt reasonably well for those avoiding dairy though the texture will be slightly different. If you're out of heavy cream a combination of equal parts sour cream and milk creates a similar richness and consistency.

Serving Suggestions

While delicious on its own this casserole becomes a complete meal when paired with simple sides. A crisp green salad with vinegarette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich casserole. Roasted non-starchy vegetables like broccoli zucchini or bell peppers add color and nutrition while keeping the meal low-carb. For family members who aren't following a low-carb diet consider offering warm hamburger buns on the side they can spoon the casserole onto for a more traditional burger experience. A dollop of sugar-free ketchup or mayo on top just before serving adds that final authentic burger joint touch.

Common Queries

→ Can ground turkey be used instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for beef for a lighter version or to accommodate preference. Adjust seasoning as needed.

→ Is it necessary to use sugar-free ketchup?

No, regular ketchup is fine if you don't mind the extra carbs. Sugar-free helps keep it lower in carbohydrates.

→ Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, refrigerate covered, and bake when ready to serve. Add a few extra minutes to baking if chilling first.

→ Are there suggestions for additional toppings?

Diced pickles, lettuce, and tomato work well. You can also add avocado, jalapeños, or extra cheese to suit your taste.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Cool completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until hot.