Description
This Keto Cheeseburger Casserole is an easy, low-carb dish perfect for satisfying your cheeseburger cravings without the bun. Ground beef is cooked with onions and seasoned with garlic, salt, and pepper, then combined with a tangy mixture of mayonnaise, unsweetened ketchup, and mustard. Topped with sharp cheddar cheese and baked until bubbly, this comforting casserole serves 6 and comes together in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
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
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh garlic, minced
For the sauce and topping:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup unsweetened ketchup
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 6 ounces), divided
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a 2-quart baking dish with olive oil spray to prevent sticking.
- Brown Beef and 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, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, about 5 minutes.
- Drain and Season: If there is any liquid in the skillet, carefully drain it and return the mixture to the skillet. Stir in the kosher salt, black pepper, and minced garlic. Cook for 1 additional minute, stirring constantly to combine flavors.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Turn off the heat. Mix in the mayonnaise, unsweetened ketchup, mustard, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until the mixture is well combined.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the beef mixture to the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake or Broil: Bake in the preheated oven until the cheese is melted and the casserole is heated through, about 15 minutes. Alternatively, if using a broiler-safe dish, broil 6 inches below the element for 1–2 minutes until bubbly and golden. Serve hot.
Notes
- Using extra-lean ground beef helps reduce excess grease, making the casserole less oily.
- Diamond Crystal kosher salt is recommended for accurate seasoning; adjust if using a different salt brand.
- If you prefer a spicier casserole, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when adding the garlic.
- Broiling at the end gives a nicely browned and bubbly cheese topping; watch carefully to avoid burning.
- This casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
