Carnivore Cheeseburger Casserole

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 35 minutes

• Total Time: 50 minutes

• Servings: 6

• Cuisine: Carnivore, Keto, Low-Carb

• Dietary Notes: Gluten-Free, Grain-Free, Sugar-Free, Nut-Free

• Cooking Intensity: Easy

Introduction

Welcome to the epitome of simple, satisfying, and nutrient-dense eating. This Carnivore Cheeseburger Casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s a testament to the fact that the most comforting meals are often the most straightforward. Imagine all the iconic, savory flavors of a classic cheeseburger—the juicy beef, the rich, melted cheese, the creamy, tangy sauce—but transformed into a warm, hearty casserole that requires no bun and absolutely zero chopping.

This dish is a cornerstone for those following a carnivore or ketogenic diet, providing sustained energy from high-quality fats and protein. It’s also a lifesaver for busy weeknights, as it comes together with minimal effort and uses ingredients you likely already have on hand. It’s incredibly forgiving, easily customizable with different cheeses or meats, and makes for fantastic leftovers, tasting even better the next day. Let’s get cooking!

The Story Behind the Dish

The carnivore diet, which emphasizes animal-based foods, often requires creativity to keep meals exciting. This casserole was born from a simple craving for a cheeseburger without the traditional accompaniments. By deconstructing the burger and baking it into a cohesive, cheesy masterpiece, we create a dish that delivers on flavor and texture while staying true to its principles. The secret lies in creating a rich, binder-free sauce from eggs, cream, and cheese that sets perfectly, holding the ground beef together in a glorious, sliceable form.

Ingredients

The Beef Base

• 2 lbs (900g) ground beef (80/20 blend is ideal for flavor and moisture)

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 ½ teaspoons salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper (optional, omit for strict carnivore)

The Cheeseburger “Glue”

• 4 large eggs

• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature

• 1 cup sugar-free beef broth or bone broth (or water)

The Cheesy Topping

• 2 cups (8 oz / 225g) shredded cheddar cheese, divided

• 1 cup (4 oz / 115g) shredded mozzarella cheese

• Optional for garnish: ¼ cup cooked, crumbled bacon or a drizzle of sugar-free burger sauce.

Equipment You’ll Need

• 9×13 inch baking dish

• Large skillet or frying pan

• Mixing bowls (one medium, one large)

• Whisk

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Time: 5 minutes
Intensity: Low

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, take this time to ensure your cream cheese is soft. This is crucial for creating a smooth sauce. If you forgot to take it out early, you can soften it quickly by placing the sealed block in a bowl of warm water for 10-15 minutes. No need to grease the baking dish; the high fat content of the casserole will prevent sticking.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Time: 10-12 minutes
Intensity: Medium

Place the large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it up with a spatula. Cook the beef until it is fully browned and no longer pink, about 8-10 minutes. As it cooks, sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and optional black pepper. Once cooked, drain off any excess grease if you prefer, though leaving some will add incredible flavor and moisture to the final dish. Transfer the cooked, seasoned beef into the 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it into an even layer.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce

Time: 5 minutes
Intensity: Low

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, heavy whipping cream, and eggs. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is as smooth as possible. A few small lumps of cream cheese are okay, but try to get it mostly smooth. Once combined, whisk in the beef broth until everything is well incorporated. This liquid mixture is what will bind the casserole together, giving it a rich, quiche-like texture.

Step 4: Combine and Top with Cheese

Time: 2 minutes
Intensity: Low

Pour the creamy egg mixture evenly over the cooked beef in the baking dish. Use a spatula to gently press the beef down, ensuring the sauce seeps through to the bottom. In a separate bowl, mix the 2 cups of shredded cheddar and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle this cheese blend evenly over the entire surface of the casserole, creating a solid, delicious topping that will become golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Time: 30-35 minutes
Intensity: Low (passive)

Carefully place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the edges are bubbly and the top is a beautiful, spotty golden brown. The center should be set and not jiggle loosely when you shake the dish.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Time: 10 minutes
Intensity: Low (passive)

This is a critical step for the perfect slice! Remove the casserole from the oven and place it on a wire rack. Let it rest for at least 10 minutes before cutting into it. This allows the internal structure to set firmly, making it easy to slice into neat squares. Garnish with optional bacon crumbles or a drizzle of sauce if desired.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving, based on 6 servings)

• Calories: 815 kcal

• Total Fat: 68g

• Saturated Fat: 35g

• Cholesterol: 335mg

• Sodium: 1100mg

• Total Carbohydrates: 4g

• Dietary Fiber: 0g

• Net Carbs: 4g

• Sugar: 2g (naturally occurring in dairy)

• Protein: 45g

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients used.

Recipe Notes & Tips for Success

• Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations. A smoky gouda, sharp provolone, or pepper jack would be fantastic additions.

• Add-In Ideas: While this is a strict carnivore recipe, those on a keto diet can add diced pickles (stirred in with the beef) or a tablespoon of yellow mustard to the sauce for a more classic “burger” flavor.

• Meat Variations: You can use ground pork, sausage, or a mixture of meats for a different flavor profile.

• Make-Ahead & Storage: This casserole is perfect for meal prep. Let it cool completely, then slice and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

• Ensuring a Set Center: If you find the center is still too loose after the recommended baking time, simply bake for another 5-10 minutes. All ovens vary slightly in temperature.

Conclusion

This Carnivore Cheeseburger Casserole proves that eating according to your dietary goals doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or comfort. It’s a robust, family-friendly dish that satisfies the deepest cravings with simplicity and style. Whether you’re a dedicated carnivore, a keto enthusiast, or just someone looking for a delicious, no-fuss dinner, this recipe is sure to become a regular in your rotation. So, preheat that oven and get ready to enjoy a truly gratifying meal