Easy Keto Ground Beef Casserole: A Low-Carb Comfort Classic

If you're following a ketogenic diet or simply cutting back on carbs, this Easy Keto Ground Beef Casserole is the perfect dish to add to your meal rotation. 

Packed with savory ground beef, melt cheese, and flavorful low-crab veggies, this casserole delivers comfort food satisfaction without derailing your low-crab goals. Plus, it’s incredibly simple to make, requiring minimal prep and common pantry staples.

Why You'll Love This Keto Ground Beef Casserole

• Low-Carib & High-Fat: Perfectly fits into your keto diet.

• Quick & Easy: Minimal prep and ready in under an hour.

• Family-Friendly: Even non-keto eaters will love it!

• Make-Ahead Friendly: Great for meal prep or freezing for later.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 preferred for more flavor)

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 medium zucchini, diced

• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cook the beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat.

3. Add veggies: Stir in diced zucchini and chopped spinach. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften.

4. Make the creamy sauce: Lower the heat and add cream cheese to the skillet, stirring until melted and combined. Pour in heavy cream, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes.

5. Assemble the casserole: Transfer the beef and veggie mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.

6. Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Garnish and serve: Remove from oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Tips for the Best Keto Ground Beef Casserole

• Use Full-Fat Dairy: Stick to full-fat cream cheese and heavy cream to keep the dish keto-friendly.

• Swap the Veggies: You can replace zucchini and spinach with other low-carb veggies like cauliflower rice or broccoli.

• Add a Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle crushed pork rinds on top before baking for a crunchy texture.

• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you like a little heat.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad topped with a keto-friendly dressing.

• Cauliflower Rice: Serve over steamed cauliflower rice for an extra dose of veggies.

• Zoodles: Spiraled zucchini noodles make a great base.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

• Freeze: This casserole freezes well. Store in a freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months.

• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is ground beef keto-friendly?
Yes, ground beef is naturally low in carbs and high in protein and fat, making it an excellent choice for a keto diet.

2. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative, though you may need to add extra fat to maintain keto macros.

3. What other cheeses can I use?
Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Mexican cheeses all work well in this casserole.

4. How do I make it spicier?
Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes into the beef mixture for a kick.

5. Can I make this dairy-free?
You can try substituting the cream cheese and heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

6. How do I prevent the casserole from being watery?
Make sure to cook off excess moisture from the veggies before assembling the casserole. Also, drain the ground beef well after browning.

7. Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day ahead, store it in the fridge, and bake it when ready.

This Easy Keto Ground Beef Casserole is the ultimate low-crab comfort food. It’s hearty, flavorful, and satisfies all your cravings while keeping you on track with your keto goals. Whether you're feeding your family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your keto kitchen!