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This carnivore bacon cheeseburger pie is a deliciously rich and satisfying dish built for meat lovers and those following a keto lifestyle. It brings together ground beef, smoky bacon, and gooey cheddar cheese in a way that feels indulgent yet simple to prepare. Perfect for a hearty dinner that doesn’t stray from carnivore principles or low-carb needs.
I first tried this pie when hunting for a keto-friendly comfort food and it has been a staple ever since. It impresses guests and makes leftovers just as good the next day.
Ingredients
- One pound of ground beef: a great source of rich protein and flavor select fresh ground beef with a good fat ratio for moistness
- Six slices of bacon: cooked and crumbled for smoky depth and crispy texture choose thick-cut if you can for the best bite
- One cup shredded cheddar cheese: which melts beautifully adding creaminess and sharpness opt for a sharp cheddar for more punch
- Four large eggs: bind the ingredients and add fluffiness they should be fresh for the best texture
- Quarter cup heavy cream: makes the custard filling richer and helps bind everything without drying out
- Half teaspoon salt: essential for enhancing all the flavors
- Half teaspoon black pepper: adds just the right touch of heat
- Half teaspoon garlic powder: optional but it brings a subtle savory warmth
- Butter or bacon grease: to grease the pie dish ensures the pie doesn’t stick and adds flavor to the crust edges
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius. Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish using butter or reserved bacon grease to prevent sticking and add extra flavor in the crust area.
- Cook the Beef:
- Place your skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until it browns well. Season with salt, black pepper, and if you like garlic powder. Once browned, carefully drain any excess fat to keep the pie from becoming greasy while preserving moisture.
- Layer the Pie:
- Evenly spread the cooked ground beef in the bottom of the greased pie dish. Sprinkle the crispy crumbled bacon over the beef layer, then cover everything with the shredded cheddar cheese. This layering brings texture and richness in every bite.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- In a small bowl, vigorously whisk the four eggs and heavy cream together until completely combined. This creates a custardy binder that holds the pie layers together and ensures a nice, fluffy finish.
- Bake:
- Place the prepared pie into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. Look for a golden top and a set center which means it is fully cooked but still soft and moist inside.
- Cool and Serve:
- Let the pie rest and cool for five minutes outside the oven before slicing. Serving it warm brings out the flavors and makes it easier to cut clean slices that hold their shape.
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My favorite ingredient is the bacon because it adds an irresistible smoky crunch that complements the meat and cheese perfectly. I remember serving this to friends who thought it was a traditional baked dish only to surprise them it was totally carb free.
Storage Tips
Cool the pie completely before wrapping tightly in plastic wrap or storing in an airtight container. Keep refrigerated for up to four days. It reheats well in the microwave or oven and tastes just as good on day two.
Ingredient Substitutions
Ground beef can be swapped for ground pork or lamb for a twist on the flavor profile. Use gouda or mozzarella if you prefer a milder cheese. Heavy cream could be replaced with full-fat coconut milk if avoiding dairy though it changes the taste slightly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pie with a fresh green leafy salad dressed in olive oil or a side of sautéed mushrooms to balance the richness. A drizzle of mustard or a dollop of keto-friendly ketchup works well for extra flavor on the side.
Cultural Background
Bacon cheeseburgers are an American classic beloved for their rich simplicity. This pie version takes inspiration from those flavors and transforms them into a sliceable meal that fits modern low carb and carnivore lifestyles perfectly.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use different cheese types for this pie?
Yes, cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack can be substituted to vary flavor and meltiness.
- → How can I prevent the pie from becoming soggy?
Drain excess grease from the cooked beef and bacon before layering to keep the crust and filling firm.
- → Is it necessary to add garlic powder in the seasoning?
Garlic powder is optional but adds a nice subtle depth; you can omit or replace it with other spices to suit your taste.
- → What is the best way to serve this dish?
Allow the pie to cool slightly before slicing to ensure clean portions; serve warm for the best flavor experience.
- → Can this pie be prepared ahead and reheated?
Yes, after baking and cooling, store the pie covered in the refrigerator and reheat gently in the oven or microwave.