Carnivore Bacon Cheeseburger Pie
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or higher fat content for juiciness)
- 6 slices of bacon (cooked crispy and crumbled)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese of your choice like mozzarella or American)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon mustard (optional, for a tangy kick)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for added depth of flavor)
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for added flavor)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder (optional, for extra savory depth)
- Fresh parsley or chives (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
Start by cooking the bacon until crispy. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the bacon strips. Fry them until they are crisp and golden, then remove them from the pan. Set them on a paper towel to drain excess fat. Once cool, crumble the bacon into bite-sized pieces. This will add a smoky, salty crunch to the pie.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
In the same skillet (to keep all that bacon flavor!), cook the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it up with a spatula and cook until browned and fully cooked through. If there’s excess fat, drain it off, but leave a little for flavor. Season the beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to taste. Stir in the mustard and Worcestershire sauce if using, and mix well. Let the beef simmer for another minute, then remove from heat.
3. Prepare the Pie Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them until the yolks and whites are well combined. Add in the heavy cream and whisk again until smooth. Stir in about half of the shredded cheese (saving the rest for the topping) and mix well.
4. Assemble the Pie:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch pie dish or a similar-sized baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Layer the cooked ground beef into the bottom of the prepared pie dish, spreading it evenly. Next, sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the beef. Pour the egg and cream mixture over the top, making sure it evenly covers the meat and bacon. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
5. Bake the Pie:
Place the assembled pie in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the center is set and the top is golden and bubbly. You can check for doneness by inserting a knife or toothpick into the center—it should come out clean when the pie is done. If the top starts browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil and continue baking until fully set.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once the pie is baked, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the pie to firm up and makes it easier to cut.
Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness if desired. Serve it warm and enjoy the ultimate carnivore comfort food.
Tips & Variations:
- Cheese Varieties: While cheddar is the classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella for a stretchier texture or Swiss for a nuttier flavor. If you prefer more melted cheese, add extra cheese on top during the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Add Veggies (Optional): Although it’s a carnivore recipe, you can sneak in a little extra nutrition by adding finely chopped, sautéed veggies like spinach or mushrooms into the beef mixture before assembling the pie. Just keep in mind that this will add a small amount of carbs.
- Spicy Version: If you love heat, add some finely chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture, or sprinkle cayenne pepper or chili flakes on top before baking for a spicy twist.
- Toppings: You can top the pie with some sour cream or sugar-free ketchup for a more traditional cheeseburger experience. If you prefer a more creamy texture, a dollop of ranch dressing or mayo can complement the flavors perfectly.
Storage & Reheating:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat slices in the microwave or in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes to warm through.
- Freezing: You can also freeze this pie for future meals. After baking, let the pie cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil or store in a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 1-2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition (Approximate per serving, based on 8 servings):
- Calories: 400-500 calories per serving (depending on cheese and bacon)
- Fat: 35-40g
- Protein: 25-30g
- Carbs: 2-3g (primarily from the cream and seasonings)
This Carnivore Bacon Cheeseburger Pie is the perfect meal for those following a carnivore or keto lifestyle. It’s packed with delicious beef, smoky bacon, and melted cheese, all bound together in a rich, creamy base. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, this pie is sure to satisfy your comfort food cravings while keeping you in line with your dietary goals. Enjoy every cheesy, savory bite!