Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Preparing the Base
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish or an equivalent 3-quart casserole dish.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef along with the finely chopped onion. If not using reserved bacon grease, add a tablespoon of olive oil. Drain off any excess fat once the beef is fully browned.
- Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained), beef broth, sugar-free ketchup, yellow mustard, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly and the flavors to meld.
Assembling the Casserole
- While the beef mixture simmers, prepare the creamy layer. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and half (1 cup) of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the seasoned ground beef mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out flat.
- Evenly drop spoonfuls of the cream cheese and mayonnaise mixture over the top of the beef. Gently spread the creamy topping to cover the beef entirely. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon evenly over the creamy layer.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
Bake and Serve
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned on the edges, and the casserole is heated through.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
For maximum flavor, use a sharp cheddar cheese. You can prepare this casserole ahead of time through step 8 and refrigerate; add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge. Garnish with chopped dill pickles, diced fresh tomatoes, or a drizzle of sugar-free ranch dressing upon serving.