Carnivore Skillet Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe

There is nothing quite like the comfort and joy packed into every bite of this Carnivore Skillet Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe. Imagine the rich, savory flavors of ground beef and crispy bacon melding perfectly with creamy melted cheddar and a tangy hint of pickles, all brought together with a luscious, velvety sauce. This dish is a celebration of hearty, satisfying ingredients that come together in a one-pan wonder, making it an absolute favorite for anyone who loves a good cheeseburger transformed into a cozy casserole.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays an essential role, contributing not only flavor but also texture and color to the final dish. From the crispy bacon to the tangy pickles, each element is simple but indispensable, making the Carnivore Skillet Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe truly special.

• 1 lb ground beef: The flavorful base for our hearty casserole, providing rich, savory depth.
• 4 strips of bacon, chopped: Adds crispy, smoky indulgence that elevates every bite.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully to create gooey cheesiness throughout the dish.
• 1/4 cup cream cheese: Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy and smooth.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: Blends everything together with a silky richness.
• 1/4 cup pickles, chopped: Offers a deliciously tangy crunch that brightens the casserole.
• 1 tablespoon mustard: Adds a sharp, tangy kick that mimics classic cheeseburger flavors.
• 1 tablespoon ketchup: Brings a subtle sweetness and depth to the mix.
• 1 small onion, finely diced: Adds sweetness and aromatic depth when sautéed.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with warm, savory notes.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a gentle heat and seasoning balance.
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds a smoky, earthy undertone.
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Gives a subtle spicy warmth without overpowering.
• 1 tablespoon butter: Helps sauté the aromatics for extra richness.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant finish to the dish.

How to Make Carnivore Skillet Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Crisp the Bacon

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and adding the chopped bacon. Cook it until it’s deliciously crispy, then remove the bacon pieces and set them aside, leaving all that flavorful bacon fat in the skillet. This fat will infuse the rest of the dish with incredible smoky flavor.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Next, melt the butter in the bacon fat and add your finely diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 2 to 3 minutes until the onion turns translucent and soft, releasing sweet aromas that form the base of your sauce.

Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef

Turn the heat up to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with your spatula and cook until it’s nicely browned on all sides, which should take around 5 to 7 minutes. This browning step is crucial as it builds deep, rich flavors.

Step 4: Season the Beef

Add salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper to the beef, stirring well to distribute the spices evenly. These seasonings enhance the meat and add the perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and savory notes.

Step 5: Incorporate Condiments and Cream Cheese

Stir in the mustard, ketchup, and cream cheese. Make sure the cream cheese melts fully and blends smoothly with the other ingredients to create a creamy, flavorful base for your casserole.

Step 6: Add Heavy Cream

Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and stir everything together to form a luscious sauce. Let this mixture simmer gently for about 3 minutes, which helps all the flavors marry beautifully.

Step 7: Mix in Pickles and Cheese

Fold in the chopped pickles and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and integrates perfectly, adding a gooey texture and tangy punch from the pickles.

Step 8: Broil with Cheese and Bacon Topping

Preheat your oven’s broiler to high. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and the crispy bacon over the top of the beef mixture in the skillet. Then place the skillet under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown — a crowning moment for this rich casserole.

Step 9: Let Cool and Garnish

Once the cheese has reached a perfect golden finish, take the skillet out of the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, then sprinkle with the fresh chopped parsley to add a pop of color and freshness.

How to Serve Carnivore Skillet Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley isn’t just for show here — it brightens the rich, creamy casserole with a fresh herbal note. For an extra touch, feel free to add thinly sliced green onions or a dollop of sour cream for tangy creaminess.

Side Dishes

This hearty casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables to balance its richness. You could also serve it alongside some buttery garlic bread to soak up every last bit of that cheesy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the Carnivore Skillet Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe straight from the cast iron skillet for a rustic, homey vibe, or plate it over a bed of cauliflower rice or mashed potatoes for a filling and flavorful meal. For gatherings, portion it into individual ramekins for easy serving that looks as impressive as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Carnivore Skillet Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days, making it perfect for enjoying as a hearty lunch or dinner during your busy week.

Freezing

This casserole freezes fantastically. Simply cool it completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe dish or wrap the skillet tightly in foil and plastic wrap. Frozen, it keeps its wonderful flavor and texture for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through, about 15 to 20 minutes. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, but the oven method helps retain that bubbly cheese texture perfectly.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese in the Carnivore Skillet Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe?

Absolutely! While cheddar cheese is classic and provides great meltiness and flavor, you can try other cheeses like mozzarella for stretchiness or pepper jack for some extra spice. Just choose cheeses that melt well for the best texture.

Is this recipe suitable for freezer meal prep?

Yes, this casserole is an excellent candidate for freezer meal prep. It freezes well without losing texture or flavor, making it a convenient dinner option for busy days or meal planning.

Can I add vegetables to make it more balanced?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in some diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach during the sautéing stage for an extra nutritional boost without compromising the essential carnivore spirit of the recipe.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If heavy cream isn’t available, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce won’t be quite as rich or creamy. For a dairy-free option, coconut cream can work, though it may add a subtle coconut flavor.

Can I prepare this recipe in advance and reheat?

You sure can! In fact, the flavors meld even better after a little time in the fridge. Just follow the reheating instructions to bring back that irresistible cheesy, meaty goodness.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to indulge in a dish that’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and totally satisfying, the Carnivore Skillet Cheeseburger Casserole Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. With just a handful of simple ingredients coming together to create pure comfort food magic, I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love with it just like I have!

Print