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Easy Keto Ground Beef Casserole Recipe 🥘

Feyza Kırmacı
by
Updated:
4 Comments
5 from 2 votes

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Try our Keto Ground Beef Casserole, that's easy to make, friendly on the wallet, and great for anyone on a low-carb diet. With tasty ground beef, fresh veggies, and melted cheese, it's super yummy. So, let's make a delicious meal with simple cooking steps!

Keto ground beef casserole with a golden cheesy crust alongside a knife ready to be served.
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Preparation and cooking overview

Making this keto casserole is super easy and quick, taking just 50 minutes. Start by cooking the ground beef with onions, garlic, and veggies. Next, add tomatoes and seasonings, and let it simmer in broth. Finally, top with cheddar cheese and bake in the oven.

Chef's note

Want to make changes to this casserole dish? You can! Add veggies like broccoli, cauliflower, or spinach. If you want some spice, add more cayenne pepper. But if you like things less spicy, you can skip the cayenne altogether. You can also add pork rinds for added crunch! Have fun, and make it your way!

Want to try more delicious dishes with ground beef? Try our wide variety of beef recipes!

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 Minutes
  • Difficulty Level: Easy
  • Recipe Makes 6 Servings

For more inspiration check out our Beef recipe.

🥘 Ingredients for keto ground beef casserole recipe

To make the ground beef casserole, you'll need the following ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup diced bell peppers, (any color you prefer)
  • 1 cup diced zucchini
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms
  • 1 cup crushed tomatoes, (canned or fresh)
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • Sea salt, to taste
  • Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Keto ground beef casserole presented in a bowl alongside a fork.

Ingredient substitutions

Want to make some changes based on what you have on hand or your personal preference? Here are some ingredient swaps to consider:

  • Cheddar cheese: While cheddar lends a deep, rich flavor, try alternatives like mozzarella cheese, provolone, or even a mix of your favorite cheeses.
  • Onion: For a gentle taste, use shallots or green onions instead of onion.
  • Zucchini: Not a fan? Simply skip the zucchini or swap with yellow squash.
  • Beef broth: You can also try chicken or vegetable broth if you don't have beef broth.

Additional ingredients

Add these optional ingredients to your keto beef casserole to elevate its flavors:

  • Red pepper flakes: If you love an extra kick of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the ground beef mixture.
  • Heavy cream: Add ⅓ cup of heavy cream when simmering the beef and veggies. It'll lend a richer, creamier texture to the casserole.
  • Fresh baby spinach: Add a cup of fresh baby spinach during the simmering step for more greens.
  • Olives: Toss in a handful of sliced olives together with the vegetables for a tangy twist.
  • Parmesan cheese: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan on top of the cheddar for a cheesier layer.
  • Bacon bits: After baking, sprinkle some cooked bacon bits on top of the dish.
  • Taco seasoning: Sprinkle some taco seasoning in the beef mixture if you love the Mexican flair.
Keto ground beef casserole freshly out of the oven with a golden cheesy crust.

Cooking tools required

To make this low-carb casserole, you'll need the following tools:

  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Large cast-iron skillet
  • Spatula
  • Baking dish

Tool substitutes list

  • Cast-iron skillet: Use a deep pan to sauté the ground beef mixture if you don't have a cast-iron skillet.
  • Baking dish: If you have a casserole dish in your home, use it instead of a baking dish.
Homemade ground beef casserole served in a ceramic bowl and garnished with green herbs.

How to make Keto Ground Beef Casserole: step-by-step guide

Cooking methods

  • Sautéing
  • Simmering
  • Baking

Preparation steps

  1. Gather and measure all the ingredients.
  2. Wash the bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, tomatoes, and parsley.
  3. Chop the onion and fresh parsley finely and mince the fresh garlic cloves.
  4. Dice the bell peppers and zucchini, and slice the mushrooms.
  5. Shred the cheddar cheese in a medium bowl.

Cooking steps

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large cast-iron skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onions become soft and translucent.
  3. Stir in the diced bell peppers, zucchini, and sliced mushrooms. Cook for a few minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender.
  4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth, and add the dried oregano, dried basil, paprika, sea salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
  5. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  6. Transfer the ground beef and vegetable mixture to the baking dish, spreading it evenly.
  7. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole.
  8. Bake the dish in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the cheese melts and turns slightly golden.
  9. Once done, remove from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Chef's pro tip

While sautéing the vegetables, be careful not to overdo it, or you might end up with a mushy casserole. If you notice excess water in the pan, just pour it out before transferring everything to your baking dish. This step will help you maintain the perfect texture in your casserole!

What to serve with the ground beef casserole?

If you're looking for the perfect side dish to complement your beef casserole, here are some ideas to get you inspired:

  • Kale Salad: A keto kale salad introduces a creamy, fresh contrast, balancing out the hearty flavors of the casserole.
  • Roasted Asparagus or Brussels Sprouts: Whether it's asparagus or Brussels sprouts, roasted/fried vegetables add a crisp, fresh element to the meal.
  • Keto Cornbread: Indulge in a slice of low-carb cornbread with your casserole for a truly satisfying dinner.
  • Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): Pair the rich, flavorful beef casserole with light zucchini noodles for a classic dinner combo.
Freshly baked keto ground beef casserole with a golden cheesy crust.

How to make it healthier?

Here's how you can make the keto casserole with ground beef even healthier:

  • Reduce salt: Opt for low-sodium beef broth and season with salt sparingly to manage your sodium levels.
  • Veggie boost: Incorporate additional vegetables such as spinach or kale to enhance the fiber content.
  • Lean meat: Buy lean ground beef to make a healthy version of this recipe.

Time-saving tips

  • Buy pre-shredded cheddar cheese from your grocery store.
  • Use a garlic press to mince the garlic cloves.
Keto ground beef casserole served in a bowl and a fork.

What can I prepare ahead of time?

  • Chop the vegetables in advance and keep them in separate containers in the fridge.

Storage and reheating instructions

Storage tips

  • Room temperature: Allow the leftover casserole to cool to room temperature.
  • Fridge: Place the dish in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

Best reheating practices

  • Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Cover the leftover casserole with foil, and heat for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
  • Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking and stirring at 1-minute intervals.
  • Stovetop: Transfer to a skillet and reheat over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Recipe wrap-up conclusion

Embrace the simplicity and comfort of this easy Keto Ground Beef Casserole. Tailored for the keto lifestyle, it's a delightful blend of savory ground beef, crisp vegetables, and melt-in-your-mouth cheese. This dish promises to be a hit at your table whether you're making it for picky eaters or busy weeknight dinners. It's a win-win!

Give this recipe a spin and watch it earn a favorite spot in your keto meal lineup.

If you're on the lookout for similar comfort foods, check out these low-carb casserole recipes:

Keto ground beef casserole on a baking dish ready to be served.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, ground beef is keto-friendly. It's a good source of protein and fats with zero carb count, making it an ideal food for a keto diet.

Absolutely! Ground beef casseroles are an excellent dish for meal prepping. Prepare the casserole ahead of time, portion it into individual containers, and refrigerate. Bake it in the oven or microwave when you're ready to eat.

Certainly! If you prefer a leaner alternative, ground chicken is flavorful and blends seamlessly into this recipe.

For this keto ground beef casserole recipe, a standard 9x13-inch baking dish works well.

Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the ground beef mixture while sautéing if you love a fiery kick. Adjust the quantity to suit your taste.

📖 Recipe

Cheesy ground beef casserole served in a bowl and garnished with green herbs.

Keto Ground Beef Casserole

This Keto Ground Beef Casserole is a quick and easy low-carb meal featuring savory ground beef, veggies, and melted cheese for a delicious, satisfying dish.
5 from 2 votes
Print Rate Pin Recipe
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: ground beef, ground beef casserole, keto casserole
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 299kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup diced bell peppers any color you prefer
  • 1 cup diced zucchini
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms
  • 1 cup crushed tomatoes canned or fresh
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • Sea salt to taste
  • Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In a large cast-iron skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onions become soft and translucent.
  • Stir in the diced bell peppers, zucchini, and sliced mushrooms. Cook for a few minutes until the vegetables are slightly tender.
  • Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth, and add the dried oregano, dried basil, paprika, sea salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
  • Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  • Transfer the ground beef and vegetable mixture to the baking dish, spreading it evenly.
  • Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole.
  • Bake the dish in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the cheese melts and turns slightly golden.
  • Once done, remove from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Video

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts
Keto Ground Beef Casserole
Amount Per Serving
Calories 299 Calories from Fat 198
% Daily Value*
Fat 22g34%
Saturated Fat 10g63%
Trans Fat 1g
Polyunsaturated Fat 1g
Monounsaturated Fat 8g
Cholesterol 73mg24%
Sodium 328mg14%
Potassium 491mg14%
Carbohydrates 6g2%
Fiber 2g8%
Sugar 3g3%
Protein 19g38%
Vitamin A 618IU12%
Vitamin C 29mg35%
Calcium 173mg17%
Iron 2mg11%
*

Nutritional values are estimates only and do not include carbs from sugar alcohols.

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Kathy says

    5 stars
    Very good. Easy to customize. One of the few recipes both my daughter and I like!

    Reply

    • Cast Iron Keto says

      Hi Kathy,

      That’s so great to hear! Thanks for trying it out and sharing your feedback!

      Reply

  2. Debbie says

    5 stars
    This was good! Theres 2 of us and it was the perfect amount for two meals. It rewarmed beautifully. Lots of flavor and uses ingredents that I always have on hand. Will be making this again. Thank you!

    Reply

    • Cast Iron Keto says

      Hi Debbie,

      Thank you so much for your feedback! We're thrilled to hear you enjoyed the recipe. It's great to know it worked well for you and that you'll be making it again. Happy cooking, and feel free to reach out if you have any other comments or questions! 😊🍽️

      Reply
5 from 2 votes

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