Description
This Keto Cheeseburger Casserole is a comforting, low-carb twist on a classic American favorite. Perfect for busy weeknights, it comes together in just 30 minutes and features ground beef, onions, and a creamy, cheesy sauce baked to gooey perfection. It’s a crowd-pleaser that keeps carbs in check while still delivering all the indulgent flavors of a cheeseburger.
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- Olive oil spray, for 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 (see notes for alternatives)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh garlic, minced
For the Sauce & Topping
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup unsweetened ketchup
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, divided (about 6 ounces total)
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven & Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Spray a 2-quart baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking and set aside.
- Brown the Beef & Onions: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes. Add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook, stirring to break up the beef, until the meat is browned and the onions are soft, about 5 minutes.
- Drain and Season: If there’s liquid in the skillet, carefully drain it off and return the mixture to the skillet. Stir in the kosher salt, black pepper, and minced garlic. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1 more minute until fragrant.
- Add the Sauce: Turn off the heat. Stir in the mayonnaise, unsweetened ketchup, mustard, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well until everything is evenly combined and the cheese has started to melt into the beef mixture.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the beef mixture to your prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheddar over the top for a melty, cheesy crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake until the cheese is melted and the casserole is hot throughout, about 15 minutes. If you prefer, you can broil the casserole (if your dish is broiler-safe) 6 inches beneath the broiler for 1–2 minutes to bubble and brown the cheese (but not directly underneath).
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve immediately, spooned onto plates or bowls. Enjoy your cheesy, keto-friendly comfort food!
Notes
- Add 1–2 cups of uncooked riced cauliflower to the beef and onion for a complete meal; increase olive oil by 1–2 tablespoons if you do.
- If using a different salt (not Diamond Crystal kosher), use half the amount listed.
- For a different flavor, substitute with ground chicken thighs or turkey thighs. Avoid ground chicken breast, as it is too lean and may turn out dry.
- Leftovers keep well in the fridge (airtight container) for 3–4 days; reheat gently in the microwave at 50% power.
- Freeze individual servings for up to 3 months for easy meal prep.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole
- Calories: 458kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 771mg
- Fat: 31g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 24g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
