Keto Cheeseburger Casserole

Keto Cheeseburger Casserole: A Delicious Low-Carb Meal for the Whole Family

Welcome to our comprehensive guide for preparing a delectable Keto Cheeseburger Casserole. This recipe is a perfect low-carb, keto-friendly alternative to traditional cheeseburger dishes, combining the savory flavors of a cheeseburger with the convenience of a casserole. With detailed instructions, ingredient measurements, and nutritional information, this guide ensures you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that fits perfectly into your ketogenic lifestyle.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

  • 1 lb ground beef (85% lean or higher for optimal fat content)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chopped tomatoes (fresh or canned, no added sugar)
  • 1/2 cup pickles, diced (use sugar-free pickles to keep it keto)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your choice of low-carb cheese)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (ensure it’s low-carb or sugar-free)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp salt

For Garnishing (Optional):

  • 1/4 cup sliced green onions
  • 1/4 cup additional shredded cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for a touch of color and flavor)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a similar-sized oven-safe casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray or a light coating of oil to prevent sticking.
  2. Cook the Ground Beef:
    • In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 lb of ground beef. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked, breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks. This should take about 7-10 minutes.
    • Drain any excess fat from the skillet, leaving just a small amount to sauté the vegetables.
  3. Sauté the Vegetables:
    • Add 1 finely chopped small onion and 2 minced garlic cloves to the skillet with the cooked beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
  4. Add Tomatoes and Pickles:
    • Stir in 1 cup of chopped tomatoes and 1/2 cup of diced pickles. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. If using canned tomatoes, ensure there is no added sugar.
  5. Prepare the Casserole Mixture:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup of heavy cream, 1 large egg, 1 tbsp of tomato paste, and 1 tbsp of Worcestershire sauce. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
    • Add 1 tsp of dried oregano, 1 tsp of dried basil, 1/2 tsp of smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp of ground black pepper, and 1/2 tsp of salt. Mix thoroughly to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
  6. Combine Ingredients:
    • Add the cooked beef and vegetable mixture to the bowl with the cream and egg mixture. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
  7. Assemble the Casserole:
    • Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. This will ensure that the casserole bakes uniformly.
  8. Add Cheese:
    • Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. For an extra cheesy topping, you can add an additional 1/4 cup of cheese if desired.
  9. Bake the Casserole:
    • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The casserole is done when it is bubbly and the cheese is melted and slightly golden brown.
  10. Cool and Garnish:
    • Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes it easier to cut into portions.
    • Garnish with 1/4 cup of sliced green onions and freshly chopped parsley if desired for added flavor and presentation.
  11. Serving Suggestions:
    • Serve the casserole warm, either as a main dish or alongside a fresh green salad. For added texture, consider a side of keto-friendly coleslaw or roasted vegetables.
  12. Storing Leftovers:
    • Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
  13. Reheating Tips:
    • To reheat from the refrigerator, microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. For frozen leftovers, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.
  14. Meal Prep and Batch Cooking:
    • This casserole is excellent for meal prep. You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for convenient, ready-to-eat meals throughout the week.
  15. Dietary Adjustments:
    • For a dairy-free version, substitute the cheese and heavy cream with non-dairy alternatives such as coconut milk and dairy-free cheese. Adjust the recipe according to your dietary needs while keeping the flavors balanced.
  16. Low-Carb Variations:
    • Consider adding low-carb vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition. Ensure that any additional ingredients fit within your keto guidelines.
  17. Texture Tips:
    • If you prefer a firmer casserole, increase the baking time slightly. Keep an eye on the edges to ensure they do not overcook or become too crispy.
  18. Flavor Enhancements:
    • For extra flavor, experiment with different cheese varieties such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack. You can also add a dash of hot sauce or extra herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.
  19. Kid-Friendly Adjustments:
    • This casserole is kid-friendly and can be made milder by reducing the amount of spices or using a mild cheese. It’s a great way to introduce low-carb meals to younger family members.
  20. Nutritional Information and SmartPoints:

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Makes 6 Servings)

  • Calories: 350
  • Total Fat: 26g
    • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 8g
    • Dietary Fiber: 2g
    • Sugars: 4g
  • Net Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Protein: 25g

SmartPoints Value:

  • SmartPoints: 8 (per serving, based on Weight Watchers 2024 calculation)

Conclusion

This Keto Cheeseburger Casserole is a versatile and satisfying low-carb meal that fits perfectly into your ketogenic lifestyle. Its rich, cheesy flavor and hearty ingredients make it a great choice for family dinners or meal prepping. With this detailed recipe, you can enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal without compromising your dietary goals.