Description

A comforting, low-carb weeknight meal that tastes like a cheeseburger without the bun. This one-pan casserole is easy to make, kid-approved, and perfect for using up pantry staples.

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 lbs ground beef (80/20 fat content)
6–8 slices thick-cut bacon
1 medium yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup dill pickles, chopped
1/2 cup full-fat mayonnaise
2 tablespoons yellow mustard
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
2–3 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil (if using leaner beef or turkey)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Chop onion, mince garlic, and shred cheese.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook bacon until crispy (5-7 minutes). Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, then crumble into small pieces. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the skillet.
Add ground beef to the skillet with the bacon grease. Break up with a wooden spoon and cook over medium-high heat until browned (5-8 minutes). Add diced onion and minced garlic during the last 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Drain excess grease if necessary, but leave some for flavor.
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, yellow mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture, crumbled bacon, chopped pickles, cherry tomatoes (if using), and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Pour in the mayonnaise-mustard sauce and stir until well combined.
Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with green onions and extra bacon if desired.

Notes

Shred your own cheese for better melting. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to help it set. If the casserole looks dry, add a splash of beef broth or mayo before baking. Do not freeze as the dairy may separate.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 380
Sugar: 2
Sodium: 650
Fat: 28
Saturated Fat: 12
Carbohydrates: 4
Fiber: 1
Protein: 28

Keywords: keto, low carb, bacon cheeseburger casserole, weeknight dinner, one pan meal, comfort food, gluten free, high protein