Name: Keto Cheeseburger Casserole Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 2 pounds ground beef (80/20); 2 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup mayonnaise (avocado oil preferred); 1/4 cup reduced sugar ketchup; 1-2 tbsp oil; Freshly cracked black pepper; Fresh chives, chopped

This Keto Cheeseburger Casserole Skillet provides all the flavors of a classic drive-thru burger in a convenient, one-pan meal. Because you skip the high-carb bun and focus on a rich cheese sauce, you get a satisfying dinner that fits perfectly into a ketogenic lifestyle. Furthermore, the quick broil at the end ensures the cheese top is bubbly and caramelized for the ultimate texture.

Ingredients & What You’ll Need

Garlic: Adds a sharp and savory aromatic foundation to the browned beef.
Onion: Provides a subtle sweetness and texture when sautéed until soft.
Cheddar cheese: Creates a thick, melty binder for the meat and a crispy topping.
Mayonnaise: Acts as the creamy base for the signature burger sauce.
Reduced sugar ketchup: Delivers that classic tangy flavor without the extra carbs.
Ground beef: Offers a juicy and protein-rich base; an 80/20 ratio works best for flavor.
Oil: Helps sauté the aromatics perfectly without sticking to the skillet.
Black pepper: Seasons the beef to highlight its natural savory qualities.
Fresh chives: Add a bright, mild onion flavor and a pop of green for garnish.

How to Make Keto Cheeseburger Casserole Skillet

This method involves browning the meat on the stovetop before finishing the dish under the broiler for a perfect cheese melt.

1. Prepare and Sauté

First, stabilize your cutting board with a wet paper towel and mince the garlic and onion. Shred the cheddar cheese from a block for the best melting results. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and reduced sugar ketchup until the sauce is smooth. Next, heat your skillet on medium-high and add the oil. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, sautéing until they are aromatic and translucent.

2. Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet and break it up with a spatula. You should cook the meat until it is browned evenly and fully incorporated with the onions and garlic. Subsequently, transfer the beef mixture to a strainer to remove any excess fat or juices. Consequently, this step ensures your casserole is rich without being overly greasy.

3. Assemble and Bake

Return the strained beef to the skillet and lower the heat. Stir in the prepared sauce, black pepper, and just under half of the shredded cheddar. You must continue stirring until the cheese melts into a creamy sauce that coats the beef. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Finally, transfer the skillet to the oven and broil until the cheese is bubbling and has caramelized edges.

4. Finish and Serve

Let the casserole set for a couple of minutes after removing it from the oven to allow the flavors to meld. Sprinkle the freshly chopped chives over the top for a fresh finish. Therefore, you can scoop generous portions and serve them hot. For a complete meal, pair this dish with a side salad or steamed low-carb vegetables.

Tips and Notes

Fat Management: Draining the beef after browning is the most important step for maintaining a thick, creamy sauce consistency.
Skillet Safety: Ensure you use an oven-safe skillet, such as cast iron, since the dish finishes under the high heat of a broiler.
Sauce Variation: You can add a teaspoon of mustard or some chopped pickles to the sauce if you prefer a more “loaded” burger flavor.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.

Yield: 6 servings

Keto Cheeseburger Casserole Skillet

This Keto Cheeseburger Casserole Skillet is a fast and family-friendly meal that tastes just like a cheeseburger. It is a perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want a high-protein, low-carb dinner in under 30 minutes.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 15 minutes

Total Time 30 minutes

Ingredients

2 pounds ground beef (80/20)
2 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup mayonnaise (avocado oil preferred)
1/4 cup reduced sugar ketchup
1-2 tbsp oil
Freshly cracked black pepper
Fresh chives, chopped

Instructions

Sauce: Whisk the mayonnaise and ketchup in a small bowl and set aside.
Sauté: Heat oil in a skillet and cook garlic and onion until soft.
Brown: Add the ground beef, cook until browned, then drain the excess fat.
Mix: Return beef to the skillet and stir in the sauce, pepper, and 1 cup of cheese.
Top: Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the beef mixture.
Broil: Place the skillet in the oven and broil until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve: Garnish with chives and serve hot.

Notes

Pickle Garnish: Adding sliced pickles on top after baking adds a wonderful crunch and acidity.
Meal Prep: This dish reheats beautifully in a microwave or back in a skillet the next day.