Description
This High-Protein Korean-Inspired BBQ Cheeseburger Casserole combines the bold flavors of Korean BBQ with the comfort of a classic cheeseburger, baked into a hearty and satisfying casserole. Ground beef is cooked with traditional Korean ingredients like gochujang, sesame oil, and soy sauce, then baked with eggs, cream, and melted cheddar cheese for a rich, protein-packed meal. It’s perfect for an easy family dinner or meal prep that brings exciting Asian-inspired flavors to your table.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Ground beef
- 1/2 cup Diced yellow onion
- 3 tbsp Soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Sesame oil
- 1 tbsp Freshly grated ginger
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup Gochujang
- 8 large Eggs
- 1 tbsp Tomato paste
- 1 cup Heavy whipping cream
- 3 cups Shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- Kosher salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish
- Grape tomatoes
- Scallions
- Sesame seeds
- Shredded lettuce
- Red onion slices
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix Korean Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, sesame oil, freshly grated ginger, minced garlic, and gochujang until well blended to create the Korean BBQ sauce base.
- Cook Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef along with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes until the beef is completely browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Add Onion and Sauce: Add the diced yellow onion to the cooked beef and continue cooking for a few more minutes until the onion softens. Stir in the prepared gochujang mixture and cook for an additional few minutes to meld the flavors. Remove the skillet from heat.
- Layer Beef and Cheese: Pour the beef mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spread it out to form an even layer. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef.
- Prepare Egg Mixture: In a separate large bowl, whisk together the eggs, tomato paste, heavy whipping cream, kosher salt, and black pepper until smooth and combined.
- Assemble Casserole: Pour the egg mixture over the beef and cheese layer in the baking dish. Then sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the top evenly.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the egg mixture is fully set like a frittata.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with halved grape tomatoes, sliced scallions, sesame seeds, shredded lettuce, and red onion slices. Serve warm and enjoy your flavorful Korean-inspired BBQ cheeseburger casserole!
Notes
- To reduce cooking time, you can prepare the Korean sauce mixture in advance and refrigerate.
- Make sure to drain excess fat from the ground beef for a less greasy casserole.
- For a spicier casserole, add more gochujang or include some sliced jalapeños in the beef mixture.
- This casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Feel free to substitute shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Korean-American Fusion