Keto Ground Beef Casserole: Perfect Comfort Dish

Indulge in this hearty and delicious Keto Ground Beef Casserole Recipe! It’s the ultimate low-carb comfort food with tender ground beef, creamy cream cheese, and a blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Don’t worry about compromising your health and weight loss goals – this easy and healthy casserole satisfies your cravings guilt-free!

This is probably one of my favorite keto ground beef recipes. Not only is it packed full of cheesy goodness, but it’s also loaded with veggies. I’m a huge fan of adding nutrients and healthy options whenever possible! Plus, with all the other flavors added, it’s a super simple way to get your little ones (or stubborn adults!) to eat their vegetables. I’ve made this more than a few times, and it’s a win in our house every time. Not only is it a win, but there are usually requests for “seconds” as well! This recipe for low-carb ground beef casserole is a slam dunk!

Can you eat ground beef on a Keto diet?

Absolutely! It perfectly fits the bill. It’s budget-friendly, low-carb, high in fat, and a great source of protein.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This ground beef casserole with green beans is my most popular recipe ever. It has been shared millions of times online. Here are a few more ideas:

✔️ It’s super duper delicious and filling!
✔️ It’s like a one-pot wonder, saving you so much time in the kitchen.
✔️ Perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious meal with no fuss.
✔️ Stay on track with your healthy eating goals because it’s totally keto-friendly.
✔️ Enjoy the cheesy goodness and savory beef without the guilt.

Ingredients you’ll need

Ground beef – gives the casserole its yummy flavor and makes it filling too!
Cream cheese – makes the casserole so creamy and smooth.
Beef broth – intensifies the beefy taste that makes the whole dish extra delicious and not too dry.
Heavy whipping cream –  is the secret to making the casserole taste rich and creamy.
Bragg’s Aminos – intensifies the flavor with a hint of umami taste, adding a tasty twist.
Garlic powder & Onion Powder – adds a wonderful taste to the casserole we all love!
Green beans – bring a fresh and healthy touch to the casserole.
Mozzarella & Cheddar cheese – adds a yummy cheesy flavor to the keto ground beef casserole and helps hold everything together.

How to Make This Easy Low-Carb Casserole

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a large skillet, cook the hamburger meat over medium heat until it’s browned. Make sure to break it up into small pieces as it cooks. You can add some salt and pepper for extra flavor if you’d like! Strain your ground beef and return it to the skillet.

Tip: I keep ground beef already browned in the freezer. It makes recipes like this so quick and easy. You can find the details in 5 Meal Prep Ideas That Save You Time on a Keto Diet.

Step 2: It’s time to make the creamy sauce. Add the cream cheese to the cooked beef in the skillet. Pour the beef broth, heavy whipping cream, Bragg’s Aminos, and seasonings.

Step 3: Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. As it simmers, the liquid will reduce, and the mixture will thicken.

Tip: The cream cheese will mix best with the ground beef if it is at room temperature.

Step 4: Add the green beans to the ground beef mixture. Don’t forget to drain them first, as it will add moisture to the sauce.

Step 5: I like to mix up the cheeses for added flavor. Sprinkle freshly grated cheese on top and pop it in the oven.

What is the Best Cast-Iron Skillet?

I prefer to use a cast-iron skillet when I make this keto recipe with ground beef, as it goes from stove to oven with only one dish. If you don’t have a cast-iron skillet, they are affordable and last forever. This 10.25 Cast Iron Skillet works perfectly with this recipe.

Do I have to have a Cast Iron Skillet to Make this Keto Ground Beef Casserole?

No, it is not necessary. Any skillet will do. If your skillet isn’t oven-safe, transfer the keto ground beef mixture to a baking dish before adding the green beans and cheese. Most everyone has casserole dishes that can be used for any skillet meal if a cast-iron skillet isn’t available.

Can I use any ground beef for this casserole?

Absolutely! You can use any ground beef you prefer, whether lean or with a higher fat content. Just keep in mind that higher fat content can add more flavor and richness to your casserole.

How do I make sure my casserole doesn’t turn out dry?

To prevent your casserole from turning out dry, make sure to use enough moisture-rich ingredients like heavy cream and cheese. You can also add a bit of chicken or beef broth to keep it moist. Additionally, avoid overcooking the casserole, as it can dry out the meat.

Can I add other vegetables to my ground beef casserole?

Absolutely! You can add any low-carb vegetables you enjoy. Some popular options include bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, or diced tomatoes. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different vegetables may require other cooking times.

How long does it take to bake a keto ground beef casserole?

The baking time can vary depending on the recipe and the thickness of your casserole. As a general guideline, most keto ground beef casseroles bake at around 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes. However, it’s always best to follow the specific recipe instructions for accurate baking times.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Making the casserole ahead of time can be a great time-saving option. You can assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. This way, you can pop it in the oven when ready to enjoy it.

Is it Gluten Free?

Yes, beef and green bean casserole can be gluten-free. It is important to check all of the ingredients you use in your kitchen to ensure each is gluten-free.

Variations to this Healthy Ground Beef Casserole Recipe:

Meat Variations:

• Ground Turkey: Swap ground beef with lean ground turkey for a lighter option.
• Ground Chicken: Use ground chicken and chicken broth to change things up while keeping it low-carb.
• Sausage: Opt for low-carb sausages like chicken or turkey sausage for added flavor.
• Ground Pork: Mix in ground pork for a rich and savory twist to the casserole.
• Shredded Chicken: Use cooked shredded chicken for a different texture. You’ll want to swap out the beef broth for chicken broth.

Vegetable Variations:  

• Zucchini: Add sliced zucchini for a fresh and low-carb vegetable addition.
• Cauliflower: Use cauliflower rice instead of green beans for a keto-friendly option.
• Asparagus: Include chopped asparagus spears for a nutritious and tasty touch.
• Bell Peppers: Add colorful bell peppers for extra crunch and flavor.
• Mushrooms: Mix in sliced mushrooms to enhance the earthy taste.

Seasoning/ Toppings Variations:

• Taco Seasoning: Add a fun Tex-Mex twist.
• Cajun Spice: Use Cajun seasoning for a bold and spicy flavor profile.
• Lemon Pepper: Sprinkle with lemon pepper seasoning for a zesty twist.
• Italian Herbs: Mix in Italian seasoning for a Mediterranean-inspired taste.
• Curry Powder: Add curry powder for a unique and aromatic curry flavor.
• Everything Bagel Seasoning: Top the casserole with this trendy seasoning for a flavorful crunch.
• Get creative with toppings like crispy bacon bits, chopped fresh herbs, sour cream, sliced avocado, or crushed pork rinds for added texture and taste.

How to store Low Carb Ground Beef Casserole

To store keto ground beef casserole, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. If you want to freeze it, label the container with the date, and it can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. It does contain dairy products, which sometimes break down when frozen. It shouldn’t change the taste, but the sauce’s texture might vary.

What Can I Serve With It?

This ground beef casserole is a meal in itself. I typically pair it with a leafy garden salad. It would also be yummy with Keto Cheddar Bay Biscuits.