If you love the juicy, mouthwatering flavors of a classic cheeseburger but want to keep it low-carb and comforting, this Keto Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe is going to be your new best friend. It’s like all the best parts of a cheeseburger, layered into a warm, cheesy casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you’re craving something hearty without the carbs. Rich ground beef, sharp cheddar, and a tangy, savory sauce come together to create a dish that both keto fans and burger lovers will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simplicity fool you—each ingredient in this Keto Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe is chosen to deliver maximum flavor, texture, and nutritional balance. These essentials come together in harmony to create a satisfying meal that feels indulgent but stays on track.
- Olive oil spray: Prevents sticking and helps your casserole bake perfectly without extra calories.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a subtle richness that keeps the beef juicy and flavorful while cooking.
- 2 pounds extra-lean ground beef: The hearty protein base providing that classic burger flavor and keeping it keto-friendly.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Brings a touch of sweetness and depth to the beef mixture.
- 2 teaspoons Diamond Crystal kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the savory notes.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right hint of spice to balance flavors.
- 1 tablespoon fresh garlic, minced: Infuses the skillet with aromatic warmth and a tasty punch.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise: Creates a creamy, tangy base that replaces traditional buns and ketchup sauces.
- 1/4 cup unsweetened ketchup: Adds that familiar burger tang without the sugar overload.
- 1 tablespoon mustard: Gives the dish a slight zest and complexity that keeps things interesting.
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded and divided: Melts into gooey perfection, bringing that irresistible cheeseburger appeal.
How to Make Keto Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish
Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot when your casserole is ready to bake. Give a 2-quart baking dish a good spray of olive oil—this simple step ensures your cheesy creation won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Brown Beef and Onions
Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat for about two minutes. Toss in the extra-lean ground beef and finely chopped onion, breaking up the beef with a spoon to get an even cook. Let everything brown nicely, about five minutes, until the beef is cooked through and the onions turn tender and translucent. This step builds the savory base that carries all the flavor.
Step 3: Drain and Season
If you spot any excess liquid in your skillet, now’s the time to drain it off carefully—too much moisture can make your casserole soggy. Return the beef and onion mixture to the skillet, then stir in the kosher salt, black pepper, and freshly minced garlic. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, so the garlic releases its fragrant goodness without burning.
Step 4: Add Sauce and Cheese
Turn off your heat and mix in the mayonnaise, unsweetened ketchup, and mustard until everything is combined into a creamy, tangy mixture. Stir in 1 cup of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, letting it melt slightly on the residual heat—this makes sure the cheese is evenly distributed and pokes through the hearty beef filling.
Step 5: Assemble Casserole
Transfer this flavorful beef mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it out so it holds together well. Sprinkle the remaining half cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top, creating a golden crust once baked that’s pure cheesy bliss.
Step 6: Bake or Broil
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and everything is heated through. If you want a slightly crispier, golden-bubbly top, switch to broil and place the dish 6 inches below the element for 1 to 2 minutes—just watch closely so it doesn’t burn! Serve your Keto Cheeseburger Casserole hot for the best melty, comforting experience.
How to Serve Keto Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Topping your casserole with chopped fresh parsley or chives adds a burst of color and freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich beef and cheese. For an extra flair, a few sliced jalapeños or a dollop of sour cream can bring different textures and a touch of creaminess that makes every bite exciting.
Side Dishes
This casserole is a meal in itself, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or roasted low-carb vegetables like asparagus or broccoli allows the flavors to shine while adding a satisfying crunch and an extra boost of fiber. Cauliflower rice also makes a perfect substitute if you want something to mop up the cheesy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
You can turn this casserole into individual servings by baking it in muffin tins for grab-and-go portions ideal for lunches. Or serve it over lettuce wraps for a light, handheld version of your cheeseburger craving. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses or spices to suit your taste buds—it’s a versatile canvas for creativity.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let your leftover Keto Cheeseburger Casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, it’ll keep delicious for up to four days, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or a quick reheat when hunger strikes.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers or wrap the whole dish tightly with foil and plastic wrap. When frozen, it will maintain its flavor and texture for up to three months—just perfect for those busy weeks when you need a wholesome, comforting meal with zero fuss.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15–20 minutes, to keep that melty cheese texture intact. Alternatively, microwave individual portions for a quick fix, but cover loosely to avoid drying out. Adding a sprinkle of extra cheddar during reheating will refresh that oven-baked delight.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in the Keto Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey makes a leaner option and still pairs wonderfully with the seasonings and cheese. Just be mindful that turkey may cook a bit faster and can be less juicy, so consider adding a bit more olive oil or a splash of broth to maintain moisture.
Is this Keto Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe dairy-free?
Not in its current form, since sharp cheddar cheese and mayonnaise are key ingredients. However, you can experiment with dairy-free cheese alternatives and a suitable dairy-free mayonnaise to make it fit your dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead and bake it later?
Yes! Assemble the casserole and keep it covered tightly in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, simply place it in the preheated oven and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What can I add to make the casserole spicier?
Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper when cooking the beef mixture. You can also sprinkle some hot sauce on top before serving for an extra kick. Just adjust according to your spice tolerance to keep the flavors balanced.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Definitely! The Keto Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe is perfect for meal prepping because it keeps well in the fridge and freezer and tastes just as delicious reheated. It’s a satisfying, low-carb option that will keep lunches and dinners both exciting and easy.
Final Thoughts
This Keto Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe is a personal favorite for good reasons: it’s simple, comforting, and bursting with all the flavors you love from a cheeseburger without the carb overload. Whether you’re new to keto or a seasoned pro, this dish will quickly become a staple in your rotation. Dive in, share it with friends, and enjoy every cheesy, savory bite!
Print
Keto Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
This Keto Cheeseburger Casserole is a delicious low-carb, high-protein dish perfect for those following a ketogenic lifestyle. Featuring lean ground beef, sharp cheddar cheese, and a tangy blend of mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard, this casserole combines all the classic cheeseburger flavors in a warm, cheesy bake that’s ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- Olive oil spray, for greasing the baking dish
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 pounds extra-lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped (about 6 ounces)
- 2 teaspoons Diamond Crystal kosher salt (or equivalent kosher salt)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup unsweetened ketchup
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 6 ounces total), divided
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray a 2-quart baking dish with olive oil to prevent the casserole from sticking.
- Brown Beef and Onions: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes. Add the extra-lean ground beef and finely chopped onion. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until the beef is browned and the onions are softened, approximately 5 minutes.
- Drain and Season: Carefully drain any excess liquid or fat from the skillet. Return the meat and onions to the skillet. Stir in 2 teaspoons kosher salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 tablespoon minced garlic. Cook, stirring constantly, for an additional 1 minute to incorporate the seasonings.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup unsweetened ketchup, 1 tablespoon mustard, and 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined and creamy.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the beef mixture into the prepared 2-quart baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake or Broil: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake until the cheese is melted and the dish is heated through, about 15 minutes. Alternatively, for a golden bubbly top, broil 6 inches below the broiler element for 1–2 minutes if your baking dish is broiler-safe. Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
- Diamond Crystal kosher salt is lighter and less dense than other kosher salts; adjust salt quantity if using a different brand.
- Unsweetened ketchup keeps the recipe keto-friendly by avoiding added sugars.
- Use extra-lean ground beef to reduce fat and make the casserole healthier.
- Broiling the casserole for a couple of minutes adds a crispy, golden topping but watch carefully to prevent burning.
- For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free cheese alternatives and substitute mayonnaise accordingly.
