Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe aroma of sizzling beef mingling with melted cheese has a way of sparking nostalgia, doesn’t it? That’s why I love my 30-Minute Keto Cheeseburger Casserole. This dish captures the classic flavors of a cheeseburger, transforming them into a hearty casserole that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Not only is it low-carb and gluten-free, but it also lets you customize with your favorite vegetables or substitute lean meats like ground chicken or turkey. What could be better than a comfort food that’s both easy to make and satisfying? If you’re ready to take your weeknight meals to the next level, keep scrolling to discover this delightful recipe! Why Try This Keto Cheeseburger Casserole? Flavorful Fusion: This dish combines the comforting essence of a classic cheeseburger into one convenient casserole, ensuring you savor every bite! Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it the perfect weeknight solution when time is tight. Versatile: You can easily swap in your favorite veggies or proteins, like ground turkey or chicken, for a personalized twist. Have you tried adding riced cauliflower or fresh spinach? Low-Carb Friendly: With only 4g of carbs per serving, it’s a fantastic choice for anyone following a keto or gluten-free diet. Family-Approved: The gooey cheese and savory flavor make it a hit, turning any meal into a family gathering. Pair it with a simple salad to complete your dinner! Store & Freeze: Not only is it delicious on the first day, but leftovers are perfect for reheat and go meals throughout the week. Keto Cheeseburger Casserole Ingredients For the Casserole Olive Oil Spray – Prevents sticking and helps in browning. Use any cooking spray or a light coating of oil. Olive Oil (2 tablespoons) – Adds moisture and flavor. Can substitute with avocado oil. Extra-Lean Ground Beef (2 pounds) – Main protein source providing richness. Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner option. Medium Onion (1, finely chopped) – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor. Shallots or leeks can be substituted. Diamond Crystal Kosher Salt (2 teaspoons) – Enhances flavor. Other salts can be substituted in smaller measurements. Black Pepper (¼ teaspoon) – Provides spice. Can be omitted for lower heat. Fresh Garlic (1 tablespoon, minced) – Adds aromatic flavor. Powdered garlic can be used as a substitute. For the Sauce Mayonnaise (¼ cup) – Adds creaminess and a tangy flavor. Greek yogurt can be used for a healthier option. Unsweetened Ketchup (¼ cup) – Brings sweetness and a hint of acidity. Sugar-free ketchup is an excellent substitute. Mustard (1 tablespoon) – Adds tanginess. Dijon mustard can be used as an alternative. For the Toppings Sharp Cheddar Cheese (1 ½ cups, divided) – Provides melty texture and flavor. Any cheese can substitute; consider mozzarella or gouda for variety. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Keto Cheeseburger Casserole Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating, grab a 2-quart baking dish and lightly coat it with olive oil spray to prevent sticking. This step ensures that your Keto Cheeseburger Casserole bakes evenly and can be easily served later on. Step 2: Sauté the Meat and Onions In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add 2 pounds of extra-lean ground beef and 1 finely chopped medium onion. Cook these ingredients for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the onions are soft and translucent. If there’s excess liquid, drain it before proceeding. Step 3: Add Seasonings Lower the heat to medium and stir in 2 teaspoons of diamond crystal kosher salt, ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 tablespoon of minced fresh garlic. Cook for an additional minute, allowing the garlic to release its fragrant aroma and infuse the meat mixture with flavor. This step adds depth to the overall taste of your Keto Cheeseburger Casserole. Step 4: Mix in Sauces and Cheese Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in ¼ cup of mayonnaise, ¼ cup of unsweetened ketchup, and 1 tablespoon of mustard. Mix thoroughly until all elements are combined. Then, fold in 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese, which will add a creamy texture and rich flavor to your casserole. Step 5: Assemble the Casserole Carefully transfer the beef mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top the casserole with the remaining ½ cup of sharp cheddar cheese, ensuring that every bite includes that gooey, melty goodness. This enticing layer will form a beautiful golden crust as it bakes. Step 6: Bake to Perfection Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the casserole is ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly, forming a golden layer on top. This step is crucial for achieving that comforting look and feel reminiscent of classic cheeseburgers. Step 7: Serve and Enjoy Once the Keto Cheeseburger Casserole is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This cooling time allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to slice. Pair this savory dish with a simple salad or steamed vegetables for a satisfying meal! Expert Tips for Keto Cheeseburger Casserole Drain Fat: Always drain any excess fat after sautéing the meat. This prevents your casserole from becoming too greasy and enhances flavor. Add Nutrients: Consider mixing in 1-2 cups of riced cauliflower or fresh spinach before baking for added nutrients. It’s a delicious way to enhance your Keto Cheeseburger Casserole! Watch the Cheese: If broiling the top for extra crispness, keep a close eye to avoid burning. It can go from perfect to overdone in seconds! Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to substitute different cheese varieties based on your preference. Mozzarella or gouda can offer a milder taste but still ensure that gooey finish. Storage Solutions: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days or frozen for up to three months. Remember to cool completely before storing! Keto Cheeseburger Casserole Variations Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize this delightful casserole to make it your own! Ground Chicken: Substitute ground beef with ground chicken for a lighter, lean protein option. It pairs beautifully with the other flavors. Cauliflower Rice: Stir in 1-2 cups of uncooked cauliflower rice to boost fiber content and pack in nutrients. This addition makes your casserole even more comforting! Spinach Boost: Add a handful of fresh spinach for an extra nutritional punch. It wilts beautifully and blends perfectly with the cheesy goodness. Seasoning Switch: Experiment with different spices like smoked paprika or chili powder for a flavor kick. Your taste buds will love this unexpected twist! Cheese Variety: Swap sharp cheddar with mozzarella or gouda for a different melty texture. Each cheese brings its own unique taste that’ll keep dinner interesting. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb twist, mix in some spiralized zucchini. This adds a fun texture and delicious taste while keeping it keto-friendly. Add Heat: Spice things up with diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes. A little heat can elevate the overall flavor of your comforting casserole! Fruit Twist: Try mixing in a touch of diced tomatoes or salsa for added moisture and a hint of sweetness. This will enhance the casserole’s flavor profile. Let your imagination run wild, and enjoy the delicious results! For more comforting casserole ideas, don’t miss my Dorito Casserole Cheesy or dive into a flavorful Mediterranean Vegetable Casserole. What to Serve with Keto Cheeseburger Casserole Transform your dinner table into a wholesome feast with delightful side dishes that complement this savory casserole beautifully. Crisp Garden Salad: A refreshing mix of greens and vegetables adds a crunchy contrast, balancing the richness of the casserole. Steamed Broccoli: Vibrant and tender, this side provides fiber and nutrients, enhancing the overall meal enjoyment. Zucchini Noodles: A low-carb alternative to pasta, they soak up flavors and add an extra layer of freshness alongside the hearty casserole. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: Creamy and savory, this dish is a fantastic substitute for traditional mashed potatoes, maintaining that comforting feel without the carbs. Riced Cauliflower Pilaf: Flavorful and light, the subtle seasoning in the pilaf pairs wonderfully with the bold flavors of the casserole. Deviled Eggs: These classic appetizers add protein and richness to your meal, making them a satisfying addition to the table. Sugar-Free Coleslaw: A tangy and crunchy slaw can bring brightness and a vibrant texture contrast, balancing out the comforting flavors of the casserole. Sparkling Water with Lime: This refreshing drink option quenches your thirst while offering a zesty touch that elevates your dining experience. How to Store and Freeze Keto Cheeseburger Casserole Fridge: Store your Keto Cheeseburger Casserole in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual portions of the casserole in airtight containers for up to three months. This is perfect for quick meals later on! Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through. For best results, cover with a damp paper towel in the microwave to retain moisture. Serving Suggestions: Pair leftover servings with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables to create a quick, balanced meal during your busy week! Make Ahead Options These Keto Cheeseburger Casseroles are a blessing for busy weeknights! You can prepare the meat mixture (ground beef, onions, and seasonings) up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to finish the meal, simply mix in the sauces and cheese, transfer the mixture to your baking dish, and bake as directed. Alternatively, you can assemble the entire casserole without baking it and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just cover it with foil to maintain moisture and prevent browning. When you’re set to serve, bake right from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes if needed, for a delicious meal that saves you time while still being just as delightful! Keto Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe FAQs What type of ground meat can I use in my Keto Cheeseburger Casserole? Absolutely! While the recipe calls for extra-lean ground beef, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. These alternatives provide a lighter flavor and still maintain the comforting essence of the dish. How should I store leftovers from my Keto Cheeseburger Casserole? To keep your casserole fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing. This way, you’ll retain that rich flavor and prevent any sogginess! Can I freeze Keto Cheeseburger Casserole? Very much! For long-term storage, divide the casserole into individual portions in airtight containers and freeze them for up to three months. When you’re craving a quick meal, simply reheat them in the microwave or oven, and savor that delightful comfort food once again. What should I do if my casserole is too greasy? A common issue, but no worries! If you find your Keto Cheeseburger Casserole too greasy, make sure to drain the excess fat after browning the meat. Also, consider using an extra-lean ground beef, or even riced cauliflower, to help absorb some of that fat during cooking. Can I add vegetables to my casserole? Absolutely! Adding in 1-2 cups of riced cauliflower or fresh spinach is a fantastic way to enhance the nutrient profile of your casserole. Simply fold them in with the meat before transferring it to the baking dish. It not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds a delightful texture! Are there any allergy considerations with this recipe? If anyone in your household has allergies, be sure to check the ingredient labels. For example, if someone is avoiding dairy, you can use dairy-free cheese alternatives. Additionally, ensure that any condiments, like mayonnaise and ketchup, are free from allergens such as gluten and soy. Always feel free to adapt ingredients based on dietary needs! Keto Cheeseburger Casserole: Comfort Food Made Easy This Keto Cheeseburger Casserole encapsulates the classic flavors of a cheeseburger in a low-carb, gluten-free casserole, perfect for a quick dinner. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsCooling Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 400 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Casserole2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can substitute with avocado oil.2 pounds Extra-Lean Ground Beef Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner option.1 Medium Onion, finely chopped Shallots or leeks can be substituted.2 teaspoons Diamond Crystal Kosher Salt Other salts can be substituted in smaller measurements.¼ teaspoon Black Pepper Can be omitted for lower heat.1 tablespoon Fresh Garlic, minced Powdered garlic can be used as a substitute.For the Sauce¼ cup Mayonnaise Greek yogurt can be used for a healthier option.¼ cup Unsweetened Ketchup Sugar-free ketchup is an excellent substitute.1 tablespoon Mustard Dijon mustard can be used as an alternative.For the Toppings1 ½ cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese, divided Any cheese can substitute; consider mozzarella or gouda for variety. Equipment large skillet2-quart baking dish Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and coat a 2-quart baking dish with olive oil spray.In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat, then add ground beef and chopped onion. Cook for about 5 minutes until browned.Lower heat, add salt, pepper, and garlic. Cook for an additional minute.Remove from heat and stir in mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard. Fold in 1 cup of cheddar cheese.Transfer the mixture to the baking dish, top with remaining cheddar cheese, and spread evenly.Bake for approximately 15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 4gProtein: 30gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg NotesConsider adding riced cauliflower or fresh spinach for added nutrients. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days or frozen for up to three months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
