Craving a classic cheeseburger but want to keep it low-carb? This Cheeseburger Skillet delivers all the savoury, cheesy satisfaction of your favourite burger—without the bun or the carbs. Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-pan wonder is loaded with juicy minced beef, melted cheddar, crispy bacon, and tangy pickles, all brought together in a creamy, flavour-packed sauce.
Why you’ll love it: It’s ready in under 30 minutes, uses just one pan for easy clean-up, and is endlessly customisable. The combination of beef, cheese, and bacon creates a hearty, protein-rich meal that will keep you full and energised. Plus, the addition of pickles and mustard gives it that authentic cheeseburger taste, making it a hit with the whole family—even those not following keto!
Simply brown the beef, add your aromatics and sauce, then finish with a generous layer of cheese and crispy bacon. Serve straight from the skillet for a comforting, fuss-free dinner that satisfies every burger craving—keto style.
At a glance
- Time: 25 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
- Servings: 4
- Cost: Affordable
Macros (per serving)
- Protein: 32 g
- Fat: 38 g
- Carbs: 5 g
- Energy: 480 kcal
Ingredients
- 500g Minced beef (20% fat) (Choose higher fat for juiciness)
- 120g Cheddar cheese, grated (Mature for best flavour)
- 80g Streaky bacon (Diced)
- 60g Dill pickles (Sliced)
- 60g Onion (Finely chopped)
- 80ml Double cream
- 1 tbsp Tomato purée
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- to taste Salt & pepper
Equipment Needed
- Large frying pan
- Wooden spoon
- Chopping board
- Sharp knife
- Grater
Steps
- Heat the frying pan over medium heat. Add diced bacon and fry for 4–5 minutes until crisp. Remove and set aside, leaving the fat in the pan.
- Add chopped onion to the pan and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Increase heat to medium-high. Add minced beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook for 5–6 minutes until browned and most liquid has evaporated.
- Stir in tomato purée and Dijon mustard. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in double cream and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Scatter grated cheddar evenly over the beef. Cover and cook for 2 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Top with crispy bacon and sliced pickles. Remove from heat and let stand for 2 minutes before serving.
Allergens & Swaps
Allergens:
Recipe contains: dairy, eggs, none
Potential swaps:
- Cheddar cheese → Dairy-free cheese alternative — For dairy-free option
- Double cream → Coconut cream — For dairy-free option
- Bacon → Turkey bacon — For pork-free version
- Onion → Spring onion greens — For lower FODMAP
Serving Ideas
- Crisp green salad – adds freshness and crunch.
- Roasted broccoli – boosts fibre and nutrients.
- bread – perfect for scooping up cheesy beef.
Additional Info
Chefs Tips
- For extra flavour, add a pinch of smoked paprika or garlic powder with the beef.
- Let the skillet rest for a couple of minutes before serving so the cheese sets slightly.
- Use a non-stick pan for easy clean-up and to prevent sticking.
Variations
- Add sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Swap cheddar for mozzarella or blue cheese for a different flavour.
- Stir in chopped tomatoes or mushrooms for extra veg.
Troubleshooting
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or cream.
- If the beef releases too much liquid, increase heat to evaporate before adding cream.
- If cheese separates, lower the heat and stir gently.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Freezes well for longer storage.
- Fridge: up to 3 days
- Freezer: up to 2 months
- Reheat: Reheat gently on the hob or in the microwave until piping hot.
Ingredient Spotlight
Minced beef: Provides rich flavour and protein; choose 20% fat for best texture.
Cheddar cheese: Adds creaminess and classic cheeseburger taste; mature cheddar melts best.
Dill pickles: Bring tangy brightness and authentic burger flavour.
FAQs
Can I make this cheeseburger skillet ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it up to 2 days in advance and reheat gently on the hob or in the microwave.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Portion into containers and store in the fridge for quick keto lunches or dinners.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works well, but the flavour will be milder. Add a little extra fat for juiciness.
How do I keep the cheese from becoming greasy?
Use mature cheddar and melt it gently over low heat to avoid splitting.
What can I serve with this skillet?
Try a crisp green salad, roasted broccoli, or keto bread for a complete meal.
Cheeseburger Skillet with Crispy Bacon and Pickles
Ingredients
- 500g Minced beef (20% fat) (Choose higher fat for juiciness)
- 120g Cheddar cheese, grated (Mature for best flavour)
- 80g Streaky bacon (Diced)
- 60g Dill pickles (Sliced)
- 60g Onion (Finely chopped)
- 80ml Double cream
- 1 tbsp Tomato purée
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- to taste Salt & pepper
Instructions
- Heat the frying pan over medium heat. Add diced bacon and fry for 4–5 minutes until crisp. Remove and set aside, leaving the fat in the pan.
- Add chopped onion to the pan and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Increase heat to medium-high. Add minced beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook for 5–6 minutes until browned and most liquid has evaporated.
- Stir in tomato purée and Dijon mustard. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in double cream and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Scatter grated cheddar evenly over the beef. Cover and cook for 2 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Top with crispy bacon and sliced pickles. Remove from heat and let stand for 2 minutes before serving.
Allergens & Swaps
Allergens: dairy, eggs, none
- Cheddar cheese → Dairy-free cheese alternative — For dairy-free option
- Double cream → Coconut cream — For dairy-free option
- Bacon → Turkey bacon — For pork-free version
- Onion → Spring onion greens — For lower FODMAP
Nutrition (per serving)
- Protein: 32 g
- Fat: 38 g
- Carbs: 5 g
- Energy: 480 kcal
