Introduction

This cheeseburger casserole is a comforting, satisfying dish that brings all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger into one easy bake. Perfect for busy weeknights, it combines savory ground beef, creamy cheese, and crispy bacon in a hearty casserole everyone will love.

A close-up of a white dish filled with three visible layers: the bottom layer shows cooked ground beef in chunks with a rich brown color, the middle layer is creamy white melted cheese with a smooth texture, and the top layer is melted bright yellow cheddar cheese covered with crispy, dark red to brown pieces of bacon scattered unevenly. The edges of the cheese are slightly browned and bubbly, and the overall look is warm and inviting with a soft focus on the background, which is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 oz cream cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
3 large eggs
1/4 cup heavy cream
4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
Optional: sliced pickles, chopped parsley or chives for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Step 2: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and softened.
Step 3: Stir in the cream cheese until it melts and the mixture becomes creamy. Remove the skillet from heat.
Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and heavy cream. Season lightly with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Transfer the beef mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the top.
Step 6: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the surface of the casserole.
Step 7: Top with the crumbled cooked bacon, distributing it across the dish.
Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, until the casserole is golden brown and bubbling.
Step 9: Allow the casserole to cool for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with sliced pickles, chopped parsley, or chives if desired.

Tips & Variations

Use sharp cheddar for a bolder cheese flavor or mix in some mozzarella for extra meltiness.
For a lower-carb version, omit the cream and replace with sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef mixture for extra veggies and flavor.
Swap bacon for cooked sausage if preferred, or leave it out for a bacon-free option.

Storage

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through, or place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but reheats well.

How to Serve

This dish has three visible layers inside a white round ramekin: the bottom layer is cooked ground beef with a slightly oily texture, topped by a middle creamy white sauce layer that looks melted and smooth, and the top layer consists of melted bright yellow cheddar cheese that is bubbly and slightly browned around the edges. Scattered on the cheese are pieces of crispy, reddish-brown bacon bits with some shiny, greasy parts. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it overnight. Bake it fresh when ready, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking cold.

Can I freeze the cheeseburger casserole?

Freezing is possible but not ideal due to the eggs and cream cheese which may change texture upon thawing. If freezing, wrap tightly and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.