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Keto Cheeseburger Casserole Skillet 🥘

Published: · Updated: by · 6 Comments

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Say hello to our Keto Cheeseburger Casserole Skillet! It's like having your favorite cheeseburger but without the extra carbs. Everything you love about a burger is in this one simple dish. No more settling for less tasty options. Grab a fork and dive into this yummy meal!

Keto Cheeseburger Casserole Skillet
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Preparation and cooking overview

Making this keto burger casserole couldn't be easier or quicker. Just cook some ground beef with onions and spices in a pan, then mix in tomato paste and cheese. Add pickles, red onions, tomatoes, more cheese, and a touch of mustard. Put it on a bed of shredded lettuce, and there you have it! In only 25 minutes, you can create a delicious, low-carb cheeseburger casserole that everyone in your family will enjoy.

Chef's note

If you're following a plant-based or dairy-free diet, you can easily adapt this keto cheeseburger casserole. Swap the ground beef for a plant-based substitute like Beyond Meat, and opt for a dairy-free cheddar cheese alternative such as Violife. These simple substitutions will ensure you enjoy the same fantastic flavors and textures without compromising your dietary choices.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 Minutes
  • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Recipe Makes 4 Servings

🥘 Ingredients for this keto cheeseburger casserole skillet recipe

You will need the following simple ingredients to make this keto hamburger casserole:

  • 2 tablespoons avocado oil or butter (dairy-free if desired)
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • ½ medium red onion, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 5 ounces cheddar cheese divided, dairy-free if desired
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste

Toppings

  • ½ cup sliced dill pickles
  • ¼ medium red onion, chopped
  • 1 Roma tomato, diced
  • 4 cups shredded lettuce
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard

Ingredient substitutions

Want to make a change to the ingredients list? That's completely fine! Check out these keto-friendly substitutions you can make:

  • Ground beef: While we suggest using ground beef for that classic cheeseburger taste, you can switch it with ground bison, chicken, or turkey if you prefer.
  • Dill pickles: If pickles aren't your thing or you want something different, pickled jalapeños or cucumbers can add a nice zing.
  • Roma tomato: Don't worry if you don't have Roma tomatoes; cherry tomatoes or vine-ripened ones will do just fine.
  • Shredded lettuce: If you want different greens, try baby spinach, arugula, or even shredded cabbage. They're all great low-carb options.
  • Yellow mustard: Fancy a different flavor? Unsweetened ketchup or keto-friendly BBQ sauce can give your dish a fun twist.

Additional ingredients

Add these optional ingredients to the keto cheeseburger casserole to elevate its flavors: 

  • Cooked bacon: Transform the dish into a keto bacon cheeseburger casserole by adding some crispy, crumbled bacon for an extra burst of flavor and a satisfying crunch.
  • Jalapeños: If you enjoy a bit of heat, sliced jalapeños will add a spicy kick to the casserole.
  • Mushrooms: Lightly sautéed mushrooms will complement the beef with a rich, savory taste.
  • Bell peppers: Add some colorful bell peppers for a vibrant and sweet flavor.
  • Sugar-free barbecue sauce: Brushing the top of the casserole with a sugar-free barbecue sauce will give it a tangy, smoky twist.
  • Fresh herbs: Sprinkle some fresh parsley, cilantro, or chives on top to add a pop of freshness.
Keto Cheeseburger Casserole on a plate with a skillet in the background

Cooking tools required

To make this low carb cheeseburger casserole recipe, you will need the following kitchen tools:

  • 10" or larger cast-iron skillet
  • Cooking spatula or spoon
  • Measuring spoons
  • Cutting board
  • Chef's knife

Tools substitute options

  • Cast iron skillet: If you don't have a cast-iron skillet, use a non-stick skillet or a regular frying pan.

How to make Keto Cheeseburger Casserole Skillet: step-by-step guide

Cooking methods

  • Sautéing

Preparation steps

  1. Gather and measure the ingredients.
  2. Chop the red onion into small pieces.
  3. Dice the Roma tomato into small cubes.
  4. Slice the dill pickles.
  5. Shred the cheddar cheese and lettuce.

Cooking instructions

  1. Heat the oil in a 10" or larger cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the beef, onion, and spices. Brown the meat while stirring occasionally, about 6-7 minutes.
  3. Stir in the tomato paste and half of the shredded cheese until well combined and the cheese is melty.
  4. Top with dill pickle slices, red onion, tomatoes, and the remaining cheese.
  5. Drizzle yellow mustard over the casserole and serve over a bed of shredded lettuce.

Chef's pro tip

Don't cook the ground beef too long, or it might get dry. Just cook it until it's brown and not pink anymore. Stir it now and then, and it should take about 6-7 minutes. This way, the beef stays juicy, and your keto bacon cheeseburger skillet will be moist and tasty.

Keto Cheeseburger Casserole

What to serve with the keto cheeseburger casserole?

Looking for the perfect sides to complement the keto cheeseburger skillet? Here are some great options to complete your meal:

  • Green salad: Try a Keto Kale Salad with low-carb dressing. It adds a fresh, crisp contrast to the warm, savory casserole.
  • Brussels sprouts: Pair the keto hamburger skillet with Charred Brussels Sprouts Salad. It brings a fresh and healthy touch to your plate.
  • Crack slaw: Keto-friendly Crack Slaw delivers a creamy and crunchy mix, balancing the flavors and textures of the meal.
  • Zoodles: Sautéed Zucchini noodles (zoodles) in olive oil make a light, noodle-like texture, offering a pasta experience without the carbs.
  • Garlic bread: Serve a slice of garlic bread made from our Keto Dinner Rolls recipe to fully savor the cheesy casserole.

How to make it healthier

  • Opt for lean ground beef or a leaner meat option like ground turkey or chicken to reduce the overall fat content.
  • Use low-sodium or no-salt-added tomato paste to reduce the sodium levels in the recipe.
  • Select organic or grass-fed beef.
  • Replace regular cheddar cheese with a reduced-fat version to lower the saturated fat content.
  • Increase the vegetable content by adding chopped bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for added nutrients and fiber.

Time-saving tips

  • Use pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded cheddar cheese to save time on grating.
  • Prepare double batches: Make a double recipe for this casserole dish. Enjoy one batch for dinner and store the other in meal-prep containers for convenient grab-and-go lunches or dinners throughout the week.

What can I prepare ahead of time?

  • Cook and brown ground beef: Brown the ground beef ahead of time and refrigerate it until needed. When it's time to cook the casserole, simply add the pre-cooked beef to the skillet and proceed with the recipe.
  • Shred the cheese: If you're using block cheese, shred it in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Storage and reheating instructions

Storage tips

  • Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature before storing.
  • Transfer leftovers to airtight containers or meal-prep containers.
  • Refrigerate and consume within three days.

Reheating best practices

  • Microwave: Heat a portion for 2-3 minutes on medium-high, stirring halfway through.
  • Oven: Warm it at 350°F (180°C) for 15-20 minutes. Check every 2 minutes until it's as hot as you like.
  • Stove: Or, just reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring now and then.

Recipe wrap-up and conclusion

Our Keto Cheeseburger Casserole Skillet is like having a classic cheeseburger but without all the carbs. This dish is not only satisfying and delicious but also quick and easy to make. It's perfect for anyone on a low-carb diet or for those who simply want a hearty meal. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it's sure to become a favorite in your household. Give it a try, and enjoy this comforting and tasty twist on a traditional favorite.

Looking for more keto casserole recipes? Check these out!

Frequently asked questions

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a substitute for ground beef. This swap allows for a leaner option without sacrificing flavor, adapting to various dietary preferences.

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese like cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda. Pick what suits your taste and dietary needs, and enjoy the unique flavor it brings to the dish.

For a dairy-free option, choose dairy-free cheese alternatives, and use dairy-free oil or butter substitutes. These changes can make the recipe suitable for those with dairy restrictions without losing its delicious taste.

Of course! Feel free to add your favorite low-carb vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or bell peppers. These additions can enhance the nutritional profile and add a new dimension of taste to the casserole.

Absolutely! If you like some heat, add chili powder, cayenne pepper, or crushed red pepper flakes. These spices will kick up the heat, offering a spicier twist to the comforting classic.

📖 Recipe

Keto Cheeseburger Casserole in a cast iron skillet

Keto Cheeseburger Casserole Skillet

This Keto Cheeseburger Casserole Skillet is a delicious and easy comfort food style low-carb dinner the entire family will love!
5 from 2 votes
Print Rate Pin Recipe
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: cheeseburger skillet, keto casserole
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 526kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons avocado oil or butter (dairy-free if desired)
  • 1 lb ground beef for plant-based swap in Beyond Meat
  • ½ medium red onion chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon pepper
  • 5 oz cheddar cheese divided, dairy-free if desired
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste

Toppings:

  • ½ cup sliced dill pickles
  • ¼ medium red onion chopped
  • 1 Roma tomato diced
  • 4 cups shredded lettuce
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Heat the oil in a 10" or larger cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add the beef, onion, and spices. Brown the meat while stirring occasionally, about 6-7 minutes.
  • Stir in the tomato paste and half of the shredded cheese until well combined and the cheese is melty.
  • Top with dill pickle slices, red onion, tomatoes, and the remaining cheese.
  • Drizzle yellow mustard over the casserole and serve over a bed of shredded lettuce.

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts
Keto Cheeseburger Casserole Skillet
Amount Per Serving
Calories 526 Calories from Fat 378
% Daily Value*
Fat 42g65%
Saturated Fat 17g106%
Cholesterol 118mg39%
Sodium 827mg36%
Potassium 575mg16%
Carbohydrates 6g2%
Fiber 2g8%
Sugar 4g4%
Protein 30g60%
Vitamin A 939IU19%
Vitamin C 7mg8%
Calcium 300mg30%
Iron 3mg17%
*

Nutritional values are estimates only and do not include carbs from sugar alcohols.

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Ernest Sewell says

    It would be good to tell people what size skillet to use. Seems minor. A pound of cooked down ground beef or turkey would not be as hearty looking nor fill a space in a 12" skillet as it would in a 10" skillet.

    Also, you should drain any fat before adding spices and tomato paste. If you cook spices too long, they lose their power. I would drain any fat first, add spice & tomato paste, then proceed - all in 10" skillet.

    Might also be fun and interesting to lightly caramelize some onions beforehand, then cook the meat in the same skillet, and top it with both raw and caramelized onions. A little ground celery seed in the meat, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired, add a great subtle layer of flavor to the meat.

    Reply

  2. Mike Ipsen says

    Made this tonight, it is basically like a cheeseburger flavored taco salad. Tasty and perfectly keto. I did add low sugar ketchup to mine to top off the flavor profile.

    Reply

  3. Lorna Higgs says

    6/18/19
    What is the serving size for the Hamburger Casserole. Are the fat, protein, net carbs, calorie, counts for the whole batch or for each serving?
    Thank you

    Reply

    • Alex Lester says

      The nutritional info is for one serving, the serving sizes for each recipe can be found at the top of each recipe card. Hope this helps!

      Reply

  4. Lisa says

    That looks delicious!

    Reply

  5. Leslie says

    5 stars
    Great! Just like a loaded cheeseburger minus the carbs!

    Reply

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