Description
This Keto Cheeseburger Casserole is a delicious low-carb twist on the classic cheeseburger, combining juicy browned ground beef with sautéed onions, a creamy tangy sauce, and sharp cheddar cheese baked to bubbly perfection. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a perfect hearty and keto-friendly meal that serves six.
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
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup unsweetened ketchup
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded and divided (about 6 ounces total)
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 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 liquid in the skillet, carefully drain it. Return the mixture to the skillet and stir in kosher salt, black pepper, and minced garlic. Cook for 1 additional minute, stirring constantly to blend flavors.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Turn off the heat. Mix in mayonnaise, unsweetened ketchup, mustard, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the mixture is well combined.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the beef mixture to the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake or Broil: Bake in the preheated oven until 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
- Diamond Crystal kosher salt is recommended for its milder saltiness; adjust if using other salts.
- Unsweetened ketchup is used to keep the recipe keto-friendly by avoiding added sugars.
- Using extra-lean ground beef helps reduce fat and keeps the casserole lean while still flavorful.
- Broiling is a faster method to melt and brown the cheese but watch closely to avoid burning.
