The Ultimate Comfort Food Makeover: Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole

Welcome to the ultimate weeknight dinner solution that delivers all the decadent flavor of your favorite drive-thru classic, without the guilt of excess carbs! If you’ve been searching for a hearty, satisfying, and easy-to-make keto meal, stop right here. Our recipe for Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, meat-packed dream that tastes exactly like a bacon cheeseburger fresh off the grill, transformed into an effortless baked dish. This casserole is perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or impressing guests who might not even realize they are eating low-carb.

This dish is more than just ground beef and cheese; it’s a symphony of textures and flavors. We combine perfectly seasoned beef with a rich, velvety cream cheese sauce, crispy bacon, and a generous layer of sharp cheddar. Baked until golden and bubbly, this casserole is the definition of comfort food. It simplifies dinner time while keeping you perfectly on track with your low-carb lifestyle. Let’s dive into how you can make this irresistible, crowd-pleasing Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole tonight.

Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole (300-500 Words)

There are countless reasons why this Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole has become a staple in my kitchen and will quickly become one in yours. It successfully bridges the gap between craving indulgent comfort food and maintaining dietary discipline. Forget boring salads and bland chicken breasts this casserole proves that low-carb eating can be exciting and deeply satisfying.

Effortless Preparation and Minimal Cleanup

One of the primary appeals of any great casserole is the simplicity. This recipe requires just two main cooking vessels: one skillet for browning the meat and sauce, and one baking dish. Since everything is cooked together in layers, cleanup is remarkably fast. You handle the prep in about 20 minutes on the stovetop, toss it into the oven, and the oven does the rest. This ease makes the Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole ideal for busy weeknights when time is short but you still want a wholesome, homemade meal.

Maximum Flavor Guarantee

The flavor profile here is spot-on. We use high-quality ingredients designed to deliver that quintessential cheeseburger taste. The combination of savory 80/20 ground beef, smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, and a secret blend of seasonings (including Worcestershire sauce and smoked paprika) creates an incredible depth of flavor. The cream cheese and heavy cream base ensure every bite is moist, tender, and luxuriously creamy. It truly captures the essence of a bacon cheeseburger without needing a bun, making it a perfect keto casserole.

A True Crowd Pleaser

Whether you are feeding picky eaters, hosting a game day party, or simply cooking for yourself, this dish is universally loved. Its familiar, rich flavors appeal to everyone, regardless of their diet restrictions. Kids love the cheesy, bacon-filled goodness, and adults appreciate the satisfying, filling nature of the casserole. This is the definition of family comfort food, made smarter.

Keto and Low-Carb Friendly By Design

Unlike traditional cheeseburger mac and cheese or other high-carb versions, this recipe is intentionally crafted to fit a ketogenic or strict low-carb diet. By eliminating breading, pasta, and potatoes, we focus purely on healthy fats and protein. It is incredibly effective at keeping you feeling full and energized, stabilizing blood sugar levels, and helping you stick to your nutritional goals while indulging in a delicious meal.

Why You Should Try This Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole Today (300-500 Words)

If you need further convincing to add this magnificent casserole to your rotation, consider the practical benefits that extend beyond flavor and ease. Trying this specific recipe offers superior versatility, excellent nutritional benefits, and unparalleled satiety, making it a superior choice compared to other low-carb dinners.

Incredible Versatility for Meal Prep

The Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is a superstar when it comes to leftovers. It holds up beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it an ideal candidate for meal prep. Simply portion it out and reheat throughout the week for quick lunches or dinners. It even freezes well! Prepare a double batch, enjoy one tonight, and freeze the other for a night when you absolutely don’t have time to cook. This functionality is crucial for anyone serious about adhering to a low-carb diet consistently.

Adjustable Toppings and Customization

While the base of ground beef, bacon, and cheese is phenomenal, this casserole serves as a perfect canvas for customization. Just like ordering a burger, you can add your favorite low-carb toppings upon serving. Consider adding sliced jalapeños for a kick, fresh lettuce and diced tomatoes (consumed in moderation for strict keto), or a dollop of low-sugar dill relish. For those who love the classic burger toppings, serving it with fresh, crisp sliced pickles is non-negotiable the acidity cuts perfectly through the rich, creamy cheese sauce.

If you’re looking for other hearty, comforting casseroles that deliver on flavor, you might enjoy trying my recipe for Creamy Chicken and Stuffing Casserole (if you’re having a planned carb day!) or perhaps explore some of my sweet holiday options like Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows for special occasions.

A Powerhouse of Protein and Healthy Fats

When transitioning to or maintaining a low-carb lifestyle, adequate protein and fat intake is key to success. This Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is loaded with both. The ground beef and bacon provide substantial protein, which is essential for muscle maintenance and long-lasting satiety. The combination of cream cheese, heavy cream, and cheddar delivers necessary healthy fats, ensuring you stay satisfied and avoid those nagging mid-afternoon cravings. It is designed to be nutrient-dense and fuel your day effectively.

Superior Texture Without the Filler

Many low-carb recipes try to mimic high-carb dishes using elaborate substitutes. This casserole doesn’t rely on cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles to achieve greatness. It simply focuses on the core, delicious components of a cheeseburger the meat, the melted cheese, the smoky bacon. The texture is thick, creamy, and wonderfully gooey, providing that ultimate comfort experience without needing any high-carb bulk.

Ingredients and Utensils: The Building Blocks of the Best Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole (700-900 Words)

Creating a truly magnificent casserole starts with quality ingredients. For this Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole, we emphasize full-fat products for flavor and satiety, along with fresh aromatics to build a deep, complex base.

Essential Ingredients List:

• For the Meat Base:
  • 2 pounds Ground Beef (80/20 ratio recommended): The fat content (20%) is crucial here. It adds flavor, moisture, and ensures the casserole remains rich, which is vital for keto macros. Leaner beef risks drying out during the baking process.
  • 8 slices Thick-Cut Bacon: Cooked crispy and crumbled. Bacon provides the smokiness and crunch that elevates this casserole from basic to extraordinary. Make sure to drain it thoroughly!
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion: Finely diced. Onion adds sweetness and aromatic depth as it cooks down with the beef.
  • 2 cloves Garlic: Minced. Garlic is the foundation of almost any savory dish, boosting the overall umami flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt & 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper: Seasoning is key! We will adjust this again before baking.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce: This adds a crucial savory, tangy, and slightly sweet punch. While it contains a small amount of sugar, the amount per serving is negligible when spread across the entire casserole. It’s essential for that “burger” flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (optional, but highly recommended): This enhances the smoky flavor of the bacon and adds a beautiful rich color to the meat mixture.
• For the Creamy Sauce and Cheese:
  • 8 ounces Cream Cheese (full-fat, softened): The star of the creamy sauce! It melts beautifully and binds the meat mixture together, providing richness and structure to the casserole. Softening it ensures a smooth mix.
  • 1/2 cup Heavy Cream: Provides luxurious moisture and further enhances the creamy texture, keeping the carb count low. You may substitute Half & Half if you prefer a slightly thinner, lighter sauce, but heavy cream is best for richness.
  • 2 cups Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese (divided): Sharp cheddar offers a tangy, robust cheese flavor that stands up well to the richness of the bacon and beef. 1 1/2 cups are mixed in, and 1/2 cup is reserved for the final topping.
  • 1/4 cup Low-Sugar Ketchup Substitute (optional, for tang): Brands like G Hughes or Primal Kitchen offer excellent low-carb ketchup alternatives. If you omit this, you may want to increase the Worcestershire slightly or add a dash of vinegar for acidity.

Detailed Notes on Ingredient Selection:

Choosing sharp cheddar is paramount. Mild cheddar tends to disappear into the background, but the tangy bite of sharp cheddar is what truly makes this a “cheeseburger” experience. When crumbling the bacon, remember to reserve about 1/4 of the crispiest bits. These reserved crumbles are sprinkled on top after the final bake, ensuring a perfect contrast of textures soft, creamy casserole base topped with crunchy, salty bacon.

For those interested in exploring savory ground beef dishes, perhaps you would enjoy my recipe for One-Pot Macaroni Cheeseburger Soup, which, while containing pasta, offers a similar flavor profile and is a beloved classic.

Necessary Kitchen Utensils and Equipment:

You don’t need a professional kitchen setup to master this recipe, but having the right tools makes the process smoother and faster. Efficiency in cooking allows you more time to enjoy your perfect Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole.

1. 9×13 Inch Baking Dish: The standard size for most casseroles. A glass or ceramic dish works best for even heat distribution and allows you to see the bubbling edges.
2. Large Skillet or Dutch Oven: Necessary for browning the ground beef and mixing in the creamy sauce base. A skillet with high sides prevents splashing when mixing.
3. Colander: Essential for draining the grease from the ground beef after browning. Tip: Always place the colander in a bowl to catch the grease, rather than pouring it directly down the sink.
4. Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measuring of heavy cream, spices, and sauces.
5. Spatula or Wooden Spoon: For breaking up the beef and stirring the thick, creamy mixture.
6. Cutting Board and Sharp Knife: For finely dicing the onion and mincing the garlic.

Having all these items prepped and ready (a technique known as mise en place) drastically reduces the cooking time, making the entire process of assembling the Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole a breeze.

Detailed Recipe Steps: Mastering the Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole (800-900 Words)

Follow these precise steps to ensure your Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole comes out perfectly creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor every single time. Attention to detail, especially when draining the grease, is key to success.

Step 1: Preparation and Preheat

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Proper preheating is essential to guarantee a quick, even bake.
2. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or spray it thoroughly with non-stick cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes serving easier.
3. Bacon Prep: Ensure your 8 slices of thick-cut bacon are already cooked until perfectly crispy. Drain them on paper towels to remove excess fat, and then crumble them into small pieces. Crucial Tip: Set aside approximately 1/4 of the crumbles these are reserved solely for sprinkling over the finished, melted cheese topping, providing maximum crunch contrast.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef and Aromatics

1. Place the 2 pounds of 80/20 ground beef into your large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Break up the beef using a spoon or spatula and cook until it is fully browned and no pink remains.
3. Drain the Grease: This is a vital step. Once cooked, carefully drain all excess grease from the skillet. If necessary, tilt the pan and use a spoon to scoop out the fat, or transfer the meat into a colander. A greasy casserole will be watery, so drain thoroughly.
4. Return the well-drained beef to the skillet.
5. Sauté Aromatics: Add the finely diced yellow onion and minced garlic to the beef. Cook for approximately 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion has softened, become translucent, and the garlic is fragrant (be careful not to burn the garlic).

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce Base

This is where the magic happens and the dish transforms into the creamy, low-carb sensation we are aiming for.

1. Reduce Heat: Reduce the heat beneath the skillet to low.
2. Add Cream Cheese: Add the 8 ounces of softened, full-fat cream cheese directly into the meat mixture. Stir constantly and patiently until the cream cheese is fully melted and smoothly combined with the ground beef. You should have a thick, cohesive mixture.
3. Liquify the Sauce: Pour in the 1/2 cup of heavy cream and the 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce. Mix well until the entire mixture is uniform, velvety, and creamy.
4. Season and Taste: Stir in the kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika (if using), and the optional low-sugar ketchup substitute. Taste the mixture. This is your chance to adjust seasonings! If you want more tang, add a touch more low-sugar ketchup or a dash of vinegar. If you feel it needs more depth, add a pinch more paprika or salt.

Step 4: Combine and Assemble the Casserole

1. Fold in Cheese and Bacon: Remove the skillet from the heat immediately. Fold in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and approximately 3/4 of the cooked bacon crumbles. Stir gently until the cheese begins to melt slightly and everything (meat, cheese, bacon) is evenly distributed throughout the creamy mixture.
2. Transfer to Dish: Carefully spoon the entire meat mixture into the prepared 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out into an even layer using the back of the spoon or a spatula. Ensure the thickness is uniform across the dish for consistent baking.

Step 5: Baking the Casserole Base

1. Place the baking dish into the preheated 375°F oven.
2. Bake for 15 minutes. The goal in this stage is to ensure the casserole is heated all the way through, the creamy sauce is set, and the edges are starting to bubble nicely.
3. Check for Doneness: The center should be warm and slightly firm when gently pressed.

Step 6: Finishing and Serving the Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole

1. Add Final Cheese Layer: Remove the casserole from the oven. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top layer.
2. Final Bake: Return the casserole to the oven for an additional 5 to 8 minutes, or until the topping cheese is completely melted, gooey, and lightly golden brown. If you desire a browned or crusty top, switch your oven to the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes (watching constantly to prevent burning!).
3. The Grand Finale: Remove the casserole from the oven and immediately sprinkle the reserved bacon crumbles over the beautiful melted cheese. The heat from the cheese will lightly adhere the bacon crumbles.
4. Resting Time: Allow the Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period is crucial as it allows the internal structure of the cheese sauce to stabilize, preventing the casserole from becoming runny when sliced.
5. Serve Hot: Serve hot, optionally topped with classic burger additions like sliced pickles, diced tomatoes, or a dollop of low-carb sour cream or even a bit of homemade Creamy Dreamy Pimento Cheese for an extra cheesy twist!

Tips, Variations, and Common Mistakes to Avoid with This Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole (500-600 Words)

This recipe is incredibly flexible, allowing for easy substitutions and variations based on your personal taste or what you have available in your pantry. Mastering a casserole involves knowing how to customize and troubleshoot common issues.

Ingredient Alternatives and Swaps

• Meat Alternatives: While ground beef (80/20) is traditional, you can easily substitute ground turkey or chicken for a slightly leaner casserole. If using leaner meat, ensure you add an extra tablespoon of cooking fat (like butter or olive oil) during the sauce step to maintain moisture. For a vegetarian take, use crumbled plant-based meat substitutes, ensuring they are well-seasoned.
• Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with cheese! Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even Pepper Jack (for a spicy kick) all melt well and complement the bacon and beef. However, for that true cheeseburger flavor, stick with cheddar.
• Dairy Swaps: If you don’t have heavy cream, unsweetened almond milk can be used for the liquid base, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. Increase the cream cheese slightly to compensate for the loss of thickness.
• Flavor Enhancers: Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the sauce base for an extra layer of complexity and tanginess. A tablespoon of finely chopped chives folded into the mixture adds freshness.

Low-Carb Vegetable Boosts

While the casserole is delicious on its own, you can sneak in extra low-carb vegetables:

• Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms alongside the onions until they release all their liquid before proceeding to Step 3.
• Bell Peppers: Finely diced green or red bell peppers add color and crunch. Add them with the onions.
• Cauliflower Rice: For a more substantial, layered dish, you can spread a thin layer of cooked, well-drained cauliflower rice across the bottom of the baking dish before adding the meat mixture. This will soak up some of the richness.

Troubleshooting and Avoiding Mistakes

Even simple recipes have pitfalls. Here’s how to ensure your Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is perfect:

1. Mistake: A Watery Casserole.
   • Solution: The number one culprit is not draining the ground beef grease properly. Ensure the beef is completely grease-free before returning it to the skillet for the sauce. Also, ensure your cream cheese is fully softened and incorporated smoothly; cold or lumpy cream cheese can affect the consistency.
2. Mistake: Burnt Cheese Topping.
   • Solution: The second bake (with the final cheese layer) should be short and focused on melting, not browning, unless you use the broiler briefly. If you notice the cheese browning too fast, loosely tent the dish with foil.
3. Mistake: Bland Flavor.
   • Solution: Don’t skip the seasoning! Taste the meat mixture (Step 3) before adding the final cheese and bacon. If it tastes flat, add more salt, pepper, or a dash of smoked paprika. The Worcestershire sauce is crucial for that deep savory flavor.

For more inspiration on easy, savory meals that are perfect for any diet, be sure to check out my Pinterest board for easy weeknight recipes!

Nutritional Values and Health Benefits of the Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole (400-600 Words)

One of the greatest benefits of the Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is that it provides exceptional nutritional density tailored specifically for a low-carbohydrate lifestyle. When enjoyed in reasonable portions, this casserole is a powerhouse of essential nutrients.

Estimated Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving, based on 8 servings):

Note: These values are estimates and will vary based on exact ingredient brands and portion size, especially the fat content of the ground beef.

• Calories: Approximately 450 – 550 kcal
• Protein: 35g – 45g (High)
• Net Carbohydrates: 3g – 5g (Very Low)
• Total Fat: 35g – 45g (High, primarily healthy saturated and monounsaturated fats from dairy and beef)
• Fiber: Less than 1g

The Power of Protein and Healthy Fats

This casserole is a metabolic dream for those following Keto or low-carb diets. By minimizing carbohydrates and maximizing fats and protein, you shift your body’s energy source.

1. Sustained Energy and Satiety: The high protein content (from beef and bacon) promotes satiety, keeping you full for hours and reducing the urge to snack. Coupled with the healthy fats (cream cheese, heavy cream, cheddar), this dish provides sustained energy without the blood sugar spikes and crashes associated with high-carb meals.
2. Muscle Maintenance: Protein is crucial for repairing tissues and building muscle mass. The generous amount of ground beef ensures you meet your daily protein requirements, which is vital whether you are actively exercising or simply maintaining weight loss.
3. Essential Vitamins and Minerals: Ground beef is an excellent source of B vitamins (B12, Niacin), Iron, and Zinc nutrients often overlooked in restrictive diets. The dairy products contribute essential calcium and Vitamin D.
4. Reduced Inflammation: By removing inflammatory high-carb ingredients like bread, refined sugars, and grains, this low-carb recipe naturally contributes to a reduction in overall systemic inflammation, a common benefit reported by those on low-carb diets.

The intentional inclusion of 80/20 beef and full-fat dairy ensures that you are consuming enough fat to reach ketosis (if following Keto) or simply feel deeply satisfied (for general low-carb). Unlike low-fat versions, this Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole doesn’t skimp on flavor or necessary macronutrients.

For those interested in maintaining a steady energy flow through savory, protein-rich dinners, you might find my Cheesy Chicken and Rice Recipe (or substituting the rice for cauliflower rice) equally satisfying on a rotating menu.

FAQs About Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole

Conclusion: Your New Low-Carb Dinner Superstar (250-400 Words)

The search for the perfect low-carb comfort food ends here. This Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is a testament to the fact that you never have to sacrifice flavor, richness, or satisfaction when adhering to a healthy, carb-conscious diet. By combining simple, high-quality ingredients like savory ground beef, ultra-crispy bacon, and a creamy, tangy cheddar sauce, we have successfully recreated the beloved bacon cheeseburger experience in an easy-to-manage, family-style dish.

From the quick 20-minute prep time to the luxurious texture delivered by the cream cheese base, this casserole is designed for maximum efficiency and flavor. It’s a reliable recipe that fits seamlessly into busy weeknights, offering generous portions and excellent nutritional value, focusing heavily on protein and healthy fats to fuel your day. Remember the key tips for success: drain the grease thoroughly, use softened cream cheese for smoothness, and reserve that final sprinkling of bacon for the ultimate crunch.

Whether you are dedicated to keto, simply reducing carbs, or just looking for a hearty, crowd-pleasing dinner, the Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole will undoubtedly earn a permanent spot on your menu. Give this recipe a try tonight, customize it with your favorite toppings (don’t forget the pickles!), and discover the joy of effortless, indulgent low-carb cooking.

We absolutely love hearing from you! If you made this recipe, please leave a comment below and let us know your favorite topping variation. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family who are seeking delicious, satisfying low-carb options!

Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole

This easy, keto-friendly casserole brings all the flavor of a classic bacon cheeseburger into a hearty, creamy bake. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Casserole, Main Course

Cuisine: American, Comfort Food

Calories: 580

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Meat Base

• 2 pounds Ground Beef 80/20 ratio recommended for flavor.
• 8 slices Thick-Cut Bacon Cooked crispy and crumbled (reserve 1/4 for topping).
• 1 medium Yellow Onion Finely diced.
• 2 cloves Garlic Minced.
• 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt
• 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce Ensure low-sugar or small amount used.
• 1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Optional, for depth.

For the Creamy Sauce and Cheese

• 8 ounces Cream Cheese Full-fat, softened to room temperature.
• 1/2 cup Heavy Cream Or Half & Half for slightly lighter version.
• 2 cups Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese Divided (use 1 1/2 cups for the mix, 1/2 cup for the topping).
• 1/4 cup Low-Sugar Ketchup substitute Optional, for tang.

Equipment

• 9x13 inch baking dish
• Large skillet
• Measuring Cups and Spoons

Method

 

Preparation and Cooking the Meat Base

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish or spray it thoroughly with non-stick cooking spray. Ensure your bacon has been cooked until crispy, drained on paper towels, and crumbled. Set the bacon aside, reserving about 1/4 of the crumbles for the final topping.
2. Place the ground beef into a large skillet over medium-high heat. Break up the beef and cook until it is fully browned and no pink remains. Carefully drain all excess grease from the skillet.
3. Return the beef to the skillet. Add the diced yellow onion and minced garlic. Cook for approximately 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion has softened and become translucent.

Creating the Sauce and Assembly

1. Reduce the heat beneath the skillet to low. Add the 8 ounces of softened cream cheese directly into the meat mixture. Stir constantly until the cream cheese is fully melted and smoothly combined with the ground beef.
2. Pour in the heavy cream and the Worcestershire sauce. Mix well until the entire mixture is uniform and creamy. Stir in the kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika (if using), and the optional low-sugar ketchup substitute. Taste and adjust seasonings.
3. Remove the skillet from the heat. Fold in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese and approximately 3/4 of the cooked bacon crumbles. Stir until the mixture is evenly distributed. Spoon the entire meat mixture into the prepared 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it into an even layer.

Baking and Finishing

1. Place the baking dish into the preheated 375°F oven. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the edges are bubbling and the casserole is heated all the way through.
2. Remove the casserole from the oven. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top layer. Return to the oven for an additional 5 to 8 minutes, or until the topping cheese is completely melted and lightly golden brown.
3. Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle the reserved bacon crumbles over the melted cheese. Allow the casserole to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Serve hot.

Notes

Optional toppings include low-carb condiments like sliced pickles, diced tomatoes, or a dollop of sour cream. If you prefer a thinner sauce, use the full cup of heavy cream instead of 1/2 cup.