Simple Cheeseburger Bake

This low-carb cheeseburger bake is just the thing for hectic nights when you want a warm, easy meal without the carbs. It mixes ground beef, sharp cheddar, and classic burger fixings into one tasty dish you can bake and enjoy.

I whipped this up when I was craving a burger without the bun and now it’s a go-to for cozy, indulgent dinners that still fit my diet.

What You Need

• Kosher salt, coarse: really brings out the flavors better than regular salt
• Ground beef: the main protein giving the dish its hearty feel, extra lean if you want it lighter
• Minced garlic: fresh is best to add a rich, savory punch
• Sharp cheddar cheese: freshly grated melts smoother and gives it that cheeseburger vibe
• Black pepper: freshly cracked for a gentle heat and aroma
• Medium onion: adds sweetness and a bit of bite, look for one that’s firm with no sprouts
• Unsweetened ketchup: keeps sugar low while adding that familiar tang, watch out for hidden sweeteners
• Mustard: Dijon or yellow both work to brighten the flavor
• Avocado oil mayo: creamy and tangy without sugar or preservatives
• Olive oil: extra virgin for cooking to add richness
• Olive oil spray: just a light coating to keep your pan from sticking

How To Make It

Get Oven Ready and Prep Dish

Turn your oven to 400°F. Spray a 2-quart baking dish lightly with olive oil spray so nothing sticks and it cooks evenly.

Cook Onions and Brown Beef

Heat olive oil in a big skillet over medium-high heat till it shimmers, about two minutes. Toss in diced onions and ground beef. Keep stirring and breaking the meat up until beef is brown and onions turn soft and clear—about five minutes.

Drain Any Liquid

If there’s any juice pooling at the bottom, carefully pour it off before putting the meat mix back in the pan. This stops things from getting watery.

Season and Build the Taste

Stir in kosher salt, freshly ground pepper, and minced garlic. Let it cook a couple more minutes so the garlic flavor wakes up and everything blends well.

Add the Sauces and Cheese

Remove the pan from heat. Mix in ketchup without sugar, mayo, mustard, and one cup of shredded cheddar. This combo nails that classic cheeseburger flavor in a creamy, cheesy blend.

Put It All Together

Spread the mixture evenly in your prepared dish. Sprinkle the rest of the cheddar cheese on top for a golden crust once baked.

Bake Until Melty and Hot

Pop it in the oven for 15 minutes until the cheese melts and the whole thing is piping hot. If your dish is safe under the broiler, toss it in for a minute or two about six inches from the heat to get bubbly, browned cheese on top.

I’m a fan of how the sharp cheddar melts perfectly with the mayo, mustard, and ketchup mix. It takes me back to fun barbecues where burgers stole the show. This dish serves that same feeling with zero fuss.

How To Store

Keep leftovers sealed in the fridge for up to four days. Warm it up gently in the microwave or oven so it keeps its yum and texture. Perfect for nights you want something quick and keto-friendly ready to go.

Swap Ideas

If you want something lighter, ground turkey or chicken works well but add some spices to boost the taste. You can trade sharp cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack for a mild or spicy change. Sugar-free BBQ sauce instead of ketchup gives it a smoky twist too.

Serving Tips

This goes great with simple green salad or roasted veggies for some fresh crunch and fiber. Add guacamole or sliced avocado on the side for creaminess and extra fats to balance everything out. A spoonful of sour cream can cool things down nicely too.

This one packs all the cheeseburger goodness in a keto-friendly way that’s fast and satisfying. Great for busy nights when you want comfort food without the carbs.

Frequently Asked Cooking Questions

→ Can I swap out the cheese for something else?

For sure! Sharp cheddar gives that classic zing but mozzarella, pepper jack, or Monterey Jack can totally switch things up with fun new flavors and textures.

→ Which ground beef should I pick?

Go for extra lean if you want it lighter but using ground chuck or a lean mix will make it juicier and richer.

→ How do I stop it from getting watery?

After cooking the meat and onions, drain off any extra juice. That keeps everything thick and not soggy.

→ Can I make it ahead of time?

Yeah, you can put it together early and chill it before baking. Just bring it to room temp before you pop it in the oven so it cooks evenly.

→ Got ideas for extra toppings?

Try throwing on chopped pickles, some crispy bacon bits, or a bit of sliced green onion to lift the flavors.