This one-pan meal is everything a comfort food lover dreams of — a hearty casserole that brings the best parts of cheeseburgers to your table without the bun. My carnivore skillet cheeseburger casserole has become a go-to in my kitchen because it’s rich, filling, and incredibly satisfying. Perfect for anyone following a carnivore diet or looking for a low-carb dinner, this recipe combines simple ingredients that come together beautifully. With ground beef as the base, crispy bacon bits, and plenty of cheese, each bite has a creamy, melty texture that feels indulgent but still easy to make on a weeknight.
What I love most about this dish is how the flavors mimic a classic cheeseburger, yet it’s all done in a single skillet, which makes cleanup a breeze. It’s also a perfect casserole for meal prep — it reheats perfectly and keeps well in the fridge for a few days. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding your family, this meal fits seamlessly into any dinner rotation. It’s the kind of casserole that proves simple food can still feel special — warm, cheesy, and completely satisfying from start to finish.
Step-By-Step Instructions
1. Crisp the Bacon
Add the chopped bacon to a large oven-safe skillet. Cook over medium heat until the pieces turn golden and crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the flavorful bacon drippings in the pan.
2. Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef directly to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until no pink remains. Drain excess grease only if needed — the fat adds richness for a true carnivore feel.
3. Season the Meat
Sprinkle in the onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to let the spices coat every bite of beef.
4. Add the Broth and Cream Cheese
Pour in the chicken or beef broth. Add the cream cheese and stir until fully melted and incorporated, creating a creamy, velvety sauce.
5. Fold in the Bacon
Return the crispy bacon to the skillet and mix it into the beef mixture. This adds salty crunch and classic cheeseburger flavor.
6. Top With Cheese
Turn off the heat and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Let it melt naturally, or place the skillet under the broiler for 1–2 minutes for a bubbly, golden finish.
7. Serve Warm
Scoop into bowls and enjoy this easy carnivore casserole that tastes like a cheeseburger in comfort-food form. Great for meal prep or weeknight dinners.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: ~252
- Protein: ~32 g
- Carbohydrates: ~2 g
- Fat: ~38 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Sugar: ~1 g
Carnivore Skillet Cheeseburger Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and coat it with cooking spray or a bit of tallow to keep everything from sticking.
- Add chopped bacon to the pan and cook until it’s crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside while you prepare the rest.
- Carefully drain the excess grease, leaving about a tablespoon in the pan. Add the ground beef and brown the meat, then drain again if needed.
- Stir in the cream cheese, broth, and spices with the beef. Mix well until the cheese melts and forms a creamy sauce.
- Reduce the heat to low, then top the mixture with the cooked bacon and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Cover and cook for a few minutes, until the cheese is fully melted and the dish is perfectly heated through. Serve warm and enjoy that rich, comforting flavor.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
While this recipe relies on cheese for its signature creamy texture, you can make it dairy-free by omitting cream cheese and cheddar and using dairy-free cheese alternatives. It will still be keto, low-carb, and flavorful.
2. Can I substitute the ground beef?
Absolutely. Ground turkey, pork, or chicken all work well. For a richer taste, try a mix of beef and pork.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This casserole reheats beautifully in the microwave or skillet, making it ideal for meal prep.
4. Can I freeze this recipe?
Yes! Allow the casserole to cool, then freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm.
5. What toppings can I add for more cheeseburger flavor?
Try dill pickles, mustard, sugar-free ketchup, or fresh chopped onions if you’re not strictly carnivore. These toppings give it that classic cheeseburger taste.
6. Is this recipe keto and gluten-free?
Yes! With virtually no carbs, this one-pan meal is naturally keto-friendly, gluten-free, and perfect for low-carb or carnivore-style diets.
