Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole: The Ultimate Keto Comfort Food Dinner

Are you searching for a meal that delivers maximum comfort food flavor without wrecking your adherence to a low-carb or ketogenic lifestyle? Then look no further! This Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is the answer to your weeknight dinner dilemmas. It takes everything you adore about a juicy, loaded bacon cheeseburger the savory ground beef, the smoky crispy bacon, the sharp cheddar, and the creamy texture and transforms it into a hearty, easy-to-make bake that requires no bun whatsoever.

This recipe is more than just a simple mixture of meat and cheese; it is a meticulously balanced dish designed to satisfy even the most intense burger cravings. We combine rich ground beef with a luscious, creamy cheese sauce made from cream cheese and heavy cream, load it up with crispy bacon crumbles, and bake it until bubbling perfection. It’s a family-friendly dish that comes together quickly, making it the perfect staple for meal prepping or busy evenings. Forget the complex recipes and the hidden carbs; this Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is pure, unapologetic flavor packed into one simple dish.

If you miss sinking your teeth into a traditional cheeseburger while sticking to your healthy eating goals, prepare to be amazed. This casserole provides all the essential textures and tastes salty, savory, creamy, and smoky without any of the carb guilt. Get ready to add this easy, decadent bake to your regular dinner rotation!

Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Quick & Easy Keto Cheeseburger Bake

In the vast landscape of low-carb recipes, few dishes strike the perfect balance between ease of preparation and sheer indulgent flavor quite like this casserole. The Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole quickly earns its place as a favorite, not just for keto followers, but for anyone who appreciates hearty, satisfying food. Here is a deep dive into why this recipe will become your new go-to weeknight winner, easily justifying its place in your meal plan.

Unrivaled Flavor Without the Carbs

The primary reason diners fall head over heels for this dish is the authentic, concentrated cheeseburger flavor. By eliminating the bun, the focus shifts entirely to the high-quality ingredients: rich, fatty ground beef, sharp cheddar, and the irresistible saltiness of bacon. We elevate this base with aromatic ingredients like onion, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce, ensuring every bite is layered with complex umami notes. Unlike some keto substitutes that leave you feeling deprived, this casserole is fundamentally rich and savory, fooling even the pickiest eaters into thinking they’re enjoying a cheat meal.

Ultimate Weeknight Convenience

Time is a commodity, especially on busy weeknights. This Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is incredibly streamlined. The active cooking time focuses mainly on browning the beef and creating the sauce, which happens simultaneously. Once assembled and placed in the oven, you are hands-free for the final 20–25 minutes. This makes it an ideal “dump and bake” recipe that minimizes cleanup and maximizes efficiency. It’s truly a one-pan wonder, moving seamlessly from the stovetop skillet to the baking dish.

Perfect for Meal Prep and Batch Cooking

Batch cooking is a cornerstone of a successful low-carb diet, and this recipe excels in this area. It yields a generous 9×13 pan, providing ample servings that refrigerate beautifully. The creamy, cheesy filling holds up wonderfully when reheated, making it an excellent lunch option for the entire week. In fact, many people find that the flavors deepen and meld even better the day after it’s baked, resulting in a richer, more satisfying texture. For those looking for other easy, comforting dishes that stand up well to batch cooking, you might enjoy my recipe for One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup, which shares similar foundational flavors, or for a different kind of comfort food, check out my recipe for Creamy Lasagna Soup.

Budget-Friendly and Family Approved

This casserole relies on inexpensive, readily available ingredients: ground beef, onions, garlic, and cheese. It’s highly cost-effective and provides substantial nutrition without breaking the bank. Furthermore, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Even family members who aren’t specifically following a keto diet will eagerly devour this dish, meaning you don’t have to prepare separate meals. The familiar flavors of beef, bacon, and cheddar transcend dietary restrictions, making this a universal dinner winner.

The Keto Difference: Why You Should Try This Easy Ground Beef Casserole

Adopting a low-carb or ketogenic diet often means giving up traditional carbohydrate-heavy comfort foods. However, this shouldn’t mean sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. This Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole isn’t just a convenient meal; it’s a powerful tool in maintaining dietary adherence, offering substantial benefits that extend beyond simple taste.

Optimized for Macronutrients

For individuals tracking macros, this casserole is a dream come true. It is naturally high in healthy fats (from the beef, bacon, cream cheese, and heavy cream) and exceptionally high in protein. This macro profile is crucial for generating satiety the feeling of fullness which helps curb overeating and snacking between meals. By minimizing net carbs (primarily derived from the small amounts of onion and Worcestershire sauce), this recipe helps keep blood sugar stable and supports metabolic ketosis.

Sustained Energy and Focus

Unlike carbohydrate-rich meals that often lead to energy spikes and subsequent crashes (the dreaded “food coma”), this fat and protein-dense casserole provides sustained energy. This is particularly beneficial for those following a keto diet, as the body learns to utilize fat for fuel. The steady energy flow helps improve mental clarity and focus throughout the afternoon, making it much more than just a quick dinner solution.

A Foundation for Creative Meal Customization

While the base recipe is perfect as written, the nature of a casserole allows for easy customization to suit personal preferences or macro needs. You can easily adjust the fat content by choosing leaner beef (though 80/20 is recommended for flavor) or incorporating more fiber-rich low-carb vegetables (like spinach or finely diced cauliflower) into the meat base. This versatility ensures that the Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole never gets boring and always fits your current dietary goals. Furthermore, the inclusion of ingredients like smoked paprika adds a subtle complexity, deepening the “grilled” flavor profile that defines a great cheeseburger. This thoughtful ingredient selection ensures the end product is robust and satisfying, truly embodying the spirit of a classic American meal minus the bun.

If you’re looking for more family comfort food favorites that are equally adaptable, consider exploring recipes that feature robust meat and creamy bases, such as our recipe for Loaded Potato Soup (keto version achievable with cauliflower). Mastering one great low-carb casserole like this one opens the door to countless other satisfying, diet-friendly creations.

Ingredients and Essential Tools for the Perfect Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole

Achieving the perfect texture and flavor in your Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole starts with selecting high-quality ingredients and ensuring you have the right equipment on hand. Every component plays a vital role in delivering that signature, mouthwatering cheeseburger experience. Here is a detailed breakdown of what you need and why it matters.

The Essential Ingredients List

The following quantities are designed for a 9×13 inch casserole dish, yielding 8–10 hearty servings. Precision in ingredients, particularly the dairy, ensures the final casserole is creamy and cohesive, not runny.

Meat Base Ingredients

• 2 pounds Ground Beef (80/20 ratio recommended): The fat content (80/20) is crucial here. It provides significant flavor and helps keep the dish moist and keto-friendly. Leaner beef risks a drier casserole.
• 8 slices Thick-Cut Bacon: Thick-cut holds its shape better and provides a satisfying crunch. Remember to cook it crispy and reserve 1/4 of the crumbles for the topping.
• 1 medium Yellow Onion, finely diced: Provides foundational savory depth and sweetness that caramelizes slightly during cooking.
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced: Essential aromatic for building robust flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt: Used for seasoning the meat base. Adjust to taste, especially after adding salty bacon.
• 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper: Standard seasoning.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce: A small amount adds intense umami depth, mimicking the complexity of a flame-grilled burger. Ensure you check labels for low-sugar varieties or understand that this small amount contributes minimal carbs to the overall dish.
• 1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (optional): Highly recommended! This addition enhances the smokiness from the bacon and gives the beef a subtle, flame-broiled flavor.

Creamy Sauce and Cheese Ingredients

• 8 ounces Cream Cheese, full-fat: This is the backbone of the creamy texture. It must be softened to room temperature for smooth incorporation into the hot beef mixture.
• 1/2 cup Heavy Cream: Adds richness and thins the cream cheese into a smooth sauce consistency. Half & Half can be used for a slightly lighter touch, but heavy cream maximizes the keto fat content.
• 2 cups Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese, divided: Sharp cheddar provides the necessary tanginess. We divide this: 1 1/2 cups are mixed into the filling to bind it, and 1/2 cup is reserved for the final, bubbly topping.
• 1/4 cup Low-Sugar Ketchup Substitute (optional): Provides the classic tang and slight acidity associated with traditional cheeseburgers without the high sugar content of regular ketchup. Use brands specifically formulated for low-carb diets.

Recommended Tools and Utensils for Casserole Success

While this recipe is simple, having the correct equipment ensures smooth preparation and optimal results. Utilizing these tools minimizes cleanup and maximizes efficiency, helping you achieve a perfect Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole every time.

Essential Cooking Equipment

1. 9×13 Inch Baking Dish (or Casserole Dish): This standard size is perfect for the quantity of meat base listed. Ensure it is lightly greased before use.
2. Large, Deep Skillet (or Dutch Oven): Necessary for browning the ground beef and mixing in the creamy sauce base. A large surface area aids in even cooking and efficient grease drainage.
3. Colander or Fine Mesh Strainer: Absolutely crucial for draining the excess grease from the ground beef after browning. Proper drainage prevents the final casserole from being watery or oily.
4. Wooden Spoon or Sturdy Spatula: Used for breaking up the ground beef and stirring the thick cream cheese mixture.
5. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Standard kitchen requirement for accurate ingredient measurement, especially for the heavy cream and seasonings.
6. Paper Towels: Used for patting down the cooked bacon to ensure maximum crispness and efficient grease removal before crumbling.
7. Cutting Board and Sharp Knife: Needed for finely dicing the onion and mincing the garlic.

By gathering these ingredients and tools, you set the stage for a seamless cooking process. Remember, the quality of the cheddar and the crispness of the bacon are key to making this Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole truly shine!

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Bake Your Satisfying Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole

Follow these detailed steps carefully to achieve a rich, creamy, and perfectly baked Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole. Attention to detail, especially regarding grease removal and ingredient temperature, is vital for success.

Step 1: Preparation and Preheat

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures the casserole heats through quickly and the cheese topping browns nicely without drying out the meat base.
2. Lightly grease a standard 9×13 inch baking dish or spray it thoroughly with non-stick cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup much easier.
3. Prepare the Bacon: Ensure your 8 slices of thick-cut bacon have been cooked until crispy. Drain them thoroughly on paper towels to remove residual grease. Once cooled slightly, crumble the bacon into small pieces. Set the bacon aside, making sure to reserve approximately 1/4 of the crumbles. These reserved pieces will provide a fantastic texture burst on the finished product.

Step 2: Cook and Drain the Ground Beef

1. Place the 2 pounds of ground beef into your large skillet over medium-high heat. Using a sturdy wooden spoon or spatula, break up the beef as it cooks. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully browned and no pink remains.
2. Crucial Step: Drain the Grease! Once the beef is browned, it is absolutely essential to drain all excess grease. If you leave too much fat, your final casserole will be watery and greasy. Carefully tilt the pan and use a spoon to scoop out the fat, or transfer the meat into a colander set over a bowl.
3. Return the well-drained beef to the skillet. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the finely diced yellow onion and minced garlic. Cook for approximately 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion has softened and become translucent. This step mellows the onion flavor and integrates the aromatics into the beef base.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce Base

1. Reduce the heat beneath the skillet to low. Add the 8 ounces of softened, room-temperature cream cheese directly into the meat mixture. This is where patience is key; stir constantly until the cream cheese is fully melted and smoothly combined with the ground beef. Do not rush this step, as lumps of cream cheese will affect the final texture.
2. Pour in the heavy cream and the Worcestershire sauce. Mix well until the entire mixture achieves a uniform, luscious, and creamy consistency.
3. Stir in the kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika (if using), and the optional low-sugar ketchup substitute. Taste the mixture and adjust seasonings as desired. Remember, the intensity of the cheeseburger flavor starts here!

Step 4: Combine and Assemble the Casserole

1. Remove the skillet from the heat. This prevents the cheese from overheating and separating.
2. Fold in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and approximately 3/4 of the cooked bacon crumbles. Stir gently until the cheese begins to melt slightly and all ingredients cheese, bacon, and beef are evenly distributed throughout the creamy base.
3. Carefully spoon the entire meat and cheese mixture into the prepared 9×13 inch baking dish. Use the back of the spoon or a spatula to spread the mixture out into an even layer, ensuring the casserole cooks uniformly.

Step 5: Baking and Finishing the Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole

1. Place the baking dish into the preheated 375°F oven. Bake for the initial period of 15 minutes. You are looking for the edges to be bubbling gently, indicating that the casserole is piping hot and heated all the way through.
2. Remove the casserole from the oven. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top layer.
3. Return the casserole to the oven for an additional 5 to 8 minutes, or until the topping cheese is completely melted, gooey, and ideally, lightly golden brown around the edges.
4. Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle the reserved bacon crumbles over the glorious melted cheese. This ensures the bacon retains its crispness and provides visual appeal.

Step 6: Serving and Resting

1. Allow the Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Resting time allows the creamy sauce to set slightly, making the casserole easier to serve cleanly and ensuring the filling stays moist.
2. Serve hot! This dish pairs perfectly with fresh, crisp sides like a simple garden salad, or traditional burger toppings such as sliced pickles, diced tomatoes, or a dollop of low-carb sour cream or even mustard.

Tips, Substitutions, and Flavor Variations for Your Low-Carb Cheeseburger Delight

One of the joys of making a casserole is its inherent flexibility. While the base recipe for this Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is phenomenal on its own, here are some tips, substitutions, and variations to customize the dish to your preference, dietary needs, or even just to introduce new exciting flavors.

Flavor Boosters and Add-Ins

To truly capture the complexity of a loaded cheeseburger, consider these additions:

• Pickle Power: Stir in 1/4 cup of finely chopped dill pickles into the meat mixture before baking. This adds a necessary acidic crunch that mimics the experience of biting into a pickle-topped burger.
• Heat it Up: For a spicy kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper, or fold in 1–2 tablespoons of jarred, diced jalapeños (ensure they are drained well).
• Mustard Magic: Stir 1 teaspoon of dry mustard powder into the cream cheese mixture, or drizzle sugar-free yellow mustard over the top before baking. Mustard is a classic burger element that enhances the beef flavor.
• Veggie Boost: To increase fiber and volume, sauté finely diced mushrooms or spinach along with the onions and garlic. Ensure the spinach is squeezed dry before adding.

Ingredient Substitutions for Dietary Needs

Need to switch things up? Here are some simple, low-carb friendly alternatives:

• Cheese Swaps: If Sharp Cheddar isn’t your favorite, try Pepper Jack for spice, Monterey Jack for extra meltiness, or a blend of Colby and Monterey Jack. For a truly luxurious, slightly nutty flavor, try Gruyère or Swiss cheese.
• Dairy-Free Creaminess: Achieving creaminess without dairy is challenging but possible. Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat canned coconut milk (not from a carton) and the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative. You will also need to use a high-quality dairy-free cheddar shred that melts well.
• Meat Alternatives: This recipe works well with other ground meats. Ground turkey or ground chicken are leaner alternatives, though you may need to add an extra tablespoon of oil or butter to maintain moisture if using 93/7 ratios. Ground sausage is also a delicious, flavor-packed swap.

Troubleshooting Common Casserole Mistakes

Even simple recipes can sometimes run into snags. Here’s how to avoid common pitfalls:

• Why is my casserole runny? The two main causes are not draining the beef grease properly (essential!) or using too much liquid (cream or ketchup). Always ensure the beef is drained and the cream cheese is fully incorporated before adding the heavy cream.
• Why is the cheese separating? If the mixture gets too hot after the cream cheese has melted, the fats in the cheese can “break.” Always fold in the shredded cheddar cheese off the heat. The residual heat of the meat base is sufficient to start the melting process without causing separation.
• To achieve a crispier top: After sprinkling the final cheese layer, switch your oven to the broiler setting for the last 1–2 minutes, watching it constantly. This gives a beautiful, slightly charred finish, mimicking the crust on a grilled burger.

If you’re looking for more ways to incorporate savory, rich ingredients into your low-carb life, be sure to check out my collection of dinner ideas on Pinterest. We share many similar comfort food favorites that are easy to adapt for keto and low-carb diets. Follow me on Pinterest for more easy weeknight recipes!

Nutritional Snapshot: Benefits of this Keto Cheeseburger Bake

Understanding the nutritional profile of the Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is key to appreciating its value within a keto or low-carb diet plan. This dish is intentionally structured to maximize satiety and provide essential macronutrients without excessive carbohydrates.

Macronutrient Breakdown (Estimated per serving)

Based on 10 servings (using 80/20 beef and full-fat dairy):

• Calories: Approximately 450–550 kcal (Varies based on fat drained and cheese amount).
• Protein: Approximately 35–45 grams.
• Fat: Approximately 30–40 grams.
• Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 4–6 grams.
• Net Carbohydrates: Approximately 3–5 grams.

Note: These values are estimates and depend heavily on the specific brands used, the exact ratio of the ground beef, and how much grease is removed.

The Power of Protein and Healthy Fats

The high content of protein and fat is the primary benefit of this Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole. The combination of ground beef and full-fat dairy ensures that you feel full quickly and remain satisfied for hours. This satiety mechanism is critical for weight management, as it reduces the impulse to snack on carb-heavy foods between meals. The proteins provided are complete proteins, offering all nine essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair, immune function, and overall health.

The fats (especially from the heavy cream, cream cheese, and 80/20 beef) are crucial for energy production on a ketogenic diet. They serve as the body’s preferred fuel source when carbs are restricted, promoting metabolic efficiency and sustained energy levels.

Minimal Carbohydrate Impact

Unlike traditional cheeseburger meals where the bun, fries, and condiments can easily push carb counts past 60–100 grams, this casserole keeps net carbs extremely low. The few carbohydrates present come mainly from the small amounts of onion, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce. By carefully selecting a low-sugar ketchup substitute, we retain the tangy flavor profile necessary for a cheeseburger experience without derailing ketosis.

Micronutrients Delivered

Ground beef is an excellent source of essential micronutrients that often become deficient when diets are overly restrictive. A serving of this casserole provides high amounts of:

• Iron: Essential for transporting oxygen in the blood.
• Zinc: Important for immune function and metabolism.
• B Vitamins (especially B12): Critical for nerve function and energy production.
• Calcium and Vitamin K2: Found in the cheese and dairy, supporting bone health.

In summary, the Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole offers substantial nutritional benefits, aligning perfectly with goals focused on high protein, high fat, and minimal carbohydrate intake. It proves that eating healthy doesn’t mean sacrificing the richness and enjoyment of classic American comfort food.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Keto Cheeseburger Casseroles

Conclusion: Your New Favorite Low-Carb Staple

The search for satisfying, flavorful, and compliant low-carb meals often feels like a never-ending journey, but this Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is truly a destination worth celebrating. We’ve managed to capture the essence of a juicy, fully loaded cheeseburger from the smoky bacon to the creamy, sharp cheddar and translate it into an incredibly convenient, family-friendly baked dish.

This casserole isn’t just a clever keto hack; it is genuinely delicious, delivering robust, familiar comfort food flavors in every bite. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, effortless for meal prepping, and universally adored by kids and adults alike, regardless of their dietary choices. By utilizing simple, high-quality ingredients like ground beef, cream cheese, and heavy cream, we maximize protein and healthy fats, ensuring sustained energy and deep satiety that is essential for maintaining a low-carb lifestyle.

From the detailed steps on achieving a smooth sauce base to the critical tip of fully draining the beef grease, you now have all the knowledge needed to execute this recipe flawlessly. Don’t let dietary restrictions dictate your dinner menu any longer. This Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole proves that true comfort food can be both decadent and aligned with your health goals.

We encourage you to try this recipe tonight and experience the satisfaction for yourself. If you do, please come back and leave a comment below! We love hearing about your variations and how this Keto Cheeseburger Bake has become a staple in your kitchen. Share this recipe with friends who need a little flavor boost in their low-carb routine, and let’s bring the joy of the bacon cheeseburger back to the dinner table!

Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole (Keto)

This easy, keto-friendly casserole combines seasoned ground beef, a rich cream cheese sauce, and cheddar cheese, topped off with crispy bacon. It's the ultimate comfort food for a low-carb diet.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American, Keto

Calories: 680

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Meat Base

• 2 pounds Ground Beef (80/20 ratio) recommended for flavor
• 8 slices Thick-Cut Bacon cooked crispy and crumbled (reserve 1/4 for topping)
• 1 medium Yellow Onion finely diced
• 2 cloves Garlic minced
• 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
• 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce ensure low-sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika optional, for depth

For the Creamy Sauce and Cheese

• 8 ounces Cream Cheese full-fat, softened to room temperature
• 1/2 cup Heavy Cream or Half & Half for slightly lighter version
• 2 cups Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese divided (1 1/2 cups for the mix, 1/2 cup for the topping)
• 1/4 cup Low-Sugar Ketchup substitute optional, for tang

Equipment

• 9x13 inch baking dish
• Large skillet

Method

 

Step 1: Preparation and Cook Beef Base

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish or spray it thoroughly with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it is fully browned and no pink remains. Drain all excess grease thoroughly from the skillet.
3. Return the beef to the skillet. Add the diced yellow onion and minced garlic. Cook for approximately 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion has softened and become translucent.

Step 2: Create the Creamy Filling

1. Reduce the heat beneath the skillet to low. Add the 8 ounces of softened cream cheese directly into the meat mixture. Stir constantly until the cream cheese is fully melted and smoothly combined with the ground beef.
2. Pour in the heavy cream and the Worcestershire sauce. Mix well until the entire mixture is uniform and creamy. Stir in the kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika (if using), and the optional low-sugar ketchup substitute. Taste and adjust seasonings as desired.

Step 3: Assemble and Initial Bake

1. Remove the skillet from the heat. Fold in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese and approximately 3/4 of the cooked bacon crumbles. Stir until the cheese begins to melt slightly and everything is evenly distributed.
2. Spoon the entire meat mixture into the prepared 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out into an even layer. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the edges are bubbling and the casserole is heated all the way through.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

1. Remove the casserole from the oven. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top layer.
2. Return the casserole to the oven for an additional 5 to 8 minutes, or until the topping cheese is completely melted and lightly golden brown.
3. Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle the reserved bacon crumbles over the melted cheese. Allow the casserole to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Serve hot, optionally topped with sliced pickles, diced tomatoes, or a dollop of low-carb sour cream.

Notes

For quicker prep, cook the bacon the day before. Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened; this helps it melt seamlessly into the ground beef mixture without clumping. You can easily double the batch and freeze half before baking for a future meal.