Description

A creamy, cheesy, low-carb casserole that combines the smoky flavor of a grill with the comfort of a skillet meal. Perfect for keto and low-carb diets, this dish layers ground beef, smoked sausage, and veggies in a rich cheese sauce.

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds (900g) ground beef (80/20 fat content)
1 pound (450g) smoked sausage (kielbasa or andouille), sliced into half-moons
1 large yellow onion, diced
1 medium green bell pepper, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups (200g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon crushed red peppers
2 tablespoons mustard (yellow or Dijon)
2 tablespoons dill pickle relish, drained
4 stalks green onions, sliced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
Olive oil (for sautéing)

Instructions

Preheat smoker or grill to 225°F-250°F using indirect heat with hickory or apple wood chips. Let preheat for 15 minutes.
Smoke the whole links of smoked sausage for 30-45 minutes until heated through and charred. Remove, cool slightly, and slice into half-moons.
In a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook for 8-10 minutes until no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary, but leave some for flavor. Set aside.
In the same skillet, add a splash of olive oil. Sauté the diced onion and bell pepper for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the browned beef, sautéed veggies, sliced sausage, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, mustard, relish, crushed red peppers, and seasonings. Mix until well combined.
Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch casserole dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese on top.
Place the casserole dish in the smoker or grill (indirect heat, 350°F) for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and edges are slightly crispy.
Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes to allow cream cheese to set. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve warm.

Notes

Ensure relish is thoroughly drained to prevent a watery casserole. Shred your own cheese to avoid anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Do not overcook the beef as it will continue to cook in the casserole. For oven preparation, brown beef and veggies on stovetop, mix, and bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes. This recipe does not freeze well due to dairy separation.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 75 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1
Calories: 420
Sugar: 3
Sodium: 680
Fat: 32
Saturated Fat: 14
Carbohydrates: 6
Fiber: 1
Protein: 28

Keywords: low-carb, keto, cheeseburger casserole, smoked sausage, ground beef, smoker recipe, grill recipe, comfort food, gluten-free, high protein