Keto Ground Beef Casserole

A comforting, cheesy, and hearty dish, this Keto Ground Beef Casserole is a perfect weeknight dinner for anyone following a low-carb lifestyle. It’s made with simple ingredients, takes minimal prep, and is baked to golden perfection in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this casserole hits the spot without derailing your keto goals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole is the ultimate keto comfort food—rich, cheesy, and filling. It’s ideal for busy evenings, as it’s made in one pan with minimal effort. You’ll love how adaptable it is—add veggies, change up the cheese, or spice it to your preference. Plus, it stores and reheats beautifully, making it great for leftovers or meal prep.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef
• Cream cheese
• Cheddar cheese
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Sea salt
• Black pepper
• Cayenne pepper (optional)
• Fresh parsley
• Olive oil spray (for greasing the dish)

directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 2-quart casserole dish with olive oil spray.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne if using.
4. Add cubed cream cheese and mix until fully melted and incorporated into the beef.
5. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Transfer the mixture to the greased casserole dish and spread evenly.
7. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 people.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add cooked spinach, mushrooms, or cauliflower rice to the beef mixture for more texture and nutrients.
• For a spicier version, include chopped jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce.
• Swap out cheddar for mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda to change the flavor profile.
• Top with crumbled bacon or diced tomatoes for extra flavor.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, place a serving in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying.
This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

What kind of ground beef is best for this recipe?

Use 85–93% lean ground beef for a good balance of flavor and lower fat content.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works well as a lean alternative.

Is this casserole spicy?

The casserole is not spicy by default. You can add cayenne or jalapeños for a kick.

Can I make it dairy-free?

You can try using dairy-free cream cheese and cheese substitutes, but the texture may differ.

Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes, assemble it up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

What sides go well with this casserole?

Serve with a green salad, roasted veggies, or cauliflower mash.

How can I make it more filling?

Add vegetables like cauliflower rice or zucchini for more volume and fiber.

Can I use a slow cooker?

This recipe is best baked, but you can keep it warm in a slow cooker after baking.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

The cheese on top should be melted and bubbly, and the casserole should be heated through.

Is it kid-friendly?

Yes, it’s a great option for kids—rich, cheesy, and not spicy unless you add heat.

Conclusion

Keto Ground Beef Casserole is a quick, satisfying, and versatile dish perfect for anyone following a low-carb or keto diet. With simple ingredients, easy preparation, and rich flavor, it’s a meal you’ll want to make again and again. Whether for family dinners or weekly meal prep, this recipe is a staple you’ll come back to often.

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