Easy Keto Ground Beef Casserole Recipe
Easy Keto Ground Beef Casserole Recipe – Low Carb Comfort Food
When I first started eating keto, I worried I’d have to give up those cozy, comforting meals that everyone loves. You know, the ones that are easy to make but still packed with flavor? Thankfully, this keto ground beef casserole proved me wrong. It’s hearty, cheesy, and bursting with flavor everything you want in a low-carb comfort food! Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight keto dinner or a dish that works for meal prep, this recipe is a must-try. It’s become a staple in my house, and I know it will in yours, too!
If you love easy keto comfort food, check out my Cheesy Mexican Low Carb Taco Casserole for another delicious, family-friendly meal!
As a Southern girl who loves a good casserole, I can’t help but think back to my best friend’s mom making the best ground beef casserole. It had potatoes, green beans, and a creamy sauce, and oh my goodness the smell! It was my favorite meal, hands down, and those dinners always felt so warm and comforting.
The memory of that dish popped into my head recently, and I couldn’t wait to make my own version. Of course, I wanted to keep it low-carb, so I skipped the potatoes and swapped a few ingredients to create this easy keto hamburger casserole. Let me tell you, it turned out so good my family devoured it!
Instead of using the traditional cream of mushroom soup, I made a simple sauce with heavy whipping cream and cream cheese. It’s thick, rich, and flavorful, and it pairs perfectly with ground beef and green beans. Then I added a layer of cheese on top (because everything is better with cheese, right?) and baked it until it was bubbly and golden.
Even my little girls couldn’t get enough of this one! They each went back for seconds, and if you’ve got picky eaters, you know what a win that is.
It has been my most popular recipe several years running, and the recipe video has been shared over 10 million times on Facebook alone! I just know this recipe is going to be a hit in your house, too!
Ingredients
This keto ground beef casserole comes together with simple ingredients that pack in a ton of flavor and make it irresistibly creamy and cheesy. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ground beef :The star of this dish! It’s hearty, flavorful, and makes this casserole so satisfying.
Cream cheese: Creates a smooth, creamy texture that feels indulgent but stays keto-friendly.
Beef broth: Adds depth and richness to the sauce.
Heavy whipping cream: A must for that velvety, creamy base.
Bragg’s Aminos: A secret weapon for that savory, umami kick.
Garlic powder & onion powder: Simple seasonings that pack a punch of flavor.
Green beans: A fresh, low-carb veggie that pairs perfectly with the rich sauce.
Mozzarella & cheddar cheese: Because what’s a casserole without cheesy, gooey goodness?
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Keto Ground Beef Casserole with Green Beans
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you make this comforting keto ground beef casserole. For a full list of ingredients and detailed instructions, be sure to scroll to the bottom for the printable recipe card.
Step 1: Prep and Brown the Ground Beef
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grab your favorite skillet (mine’s an old cast iron everything tastes better in it!) and brown the ground beef over medium heat.
Take your time here let the beef cook until it’s nicely browned with those little crispy bits that add so much flavor. Once it’s done, drain the excess fat unless you prefer a richer casserole.
💡 Pro Tip: Save time during busy weeks by browning a large batch of ground beef in advance and freezing it in portions. It’s a game-changer for recipes like this one!
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
With your ground beef browned and smelling amazing, stir in the softened cream cheese until it melts into the beef. Then, pour in the beef broth, heavy cream, and a splash of Bragg’s Aminos (or soy sauce if that’s what you have). Add the garlic powder and onion powder to boost the flavor.
Let the mixture simmer uncovered for about 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
💡 Pro Tip: Use room-temperature cream cheese for the smoothest, creamiest sauce. It makes all the difference!
Step 3: Add Green Beans and Cheese
Drain the green beans (I used canned for convenience, but frozen works great, too) and layer them over the beef mixture. Sprinkle on a generous amount of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese don’t be shy here!
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly.
Step 4: Let It Rest and Serve
Once it’s out of the oven, resist the urge to dive in right away. Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes to set, and let the flavors meld.
While you wait, consider adding a fun topping! A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color, or go bold with crispy bacon crumbles because, let’s be honest, bacon makes everything better.
Top Tips for Perfect Keto Ground Beef Casserole Every Time
Cooking the perfect keto ground beef casserole doesn’t have to be tricky! These simple tips will help you get the best results every time.
1. Browning the Ground Beef Like a Pro
When browning the ground beef, avoid overcrowding the skillet. If the beef is packed in too tight, it won’t brown properly it’ll steam instead. To get that delicious golden crust (and loads of flavor), use a large skillet and give the meat some space before flipping it.
2. Smooth, Creamy Sauce Every Time
Nobody likes a lumpy sauce! For the creamiest texture, make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before adding it to the pan. If you’re short on time, pop it in the microwave for a few seconds and cut it into small pieces. This will help it melt evenly into the sauce.
3. How to Know When Your Sauce is Just Right
Wondering if your sauce is thick enough? Here’s a simple test: Dip the back of a spoon into the sauce and run your finger through it. If the line stays clear and doesn’t fill in quickly, your sauce is perfect! It should be creamy and thick enough to coat the spoon beautifully.
4. Fixing a Sauce That’s Too Thin
If your sauce feels a bit runny, don’t stress it’s an easy fix. Keep simmering it over low heat, stirring occasionally, to let some of the liquid evaporate. Still too thin? Stir in a little extra cream cheese or sprinkle some shredded cheese to thicken it. Bonus: It’ll make the sauce even creamier and more flavorful!
5. Fixing a Sauce That’s Too Thick
If your sauce is too thick and hard to stir, simply add a splash of beef broth or heavy cream. Start small, stir well, and see if the consistency improves. You can always add more liquid, but it’s harder to take it out, so add it gradually.
FAQs About Keto Ground Beef Casserole
What’s the Best Pan for This Casserole?
Any oven-safe dish or skillet will work, but if you’ve got a cast iron skillet, definitely use it! Cast iron heats evenly, giving your casserole that perfect texture and flavor boost. For this recipe, I used my trusty 10.25″ cast iron skillet— it makes everything taste better.
Fun Fact: Some of my cast iron pans are over 50 years old, passed down from my grandmother, and they’re still going strong!
What’s the Difference Between 80/20 and Lean Ground Beef?
The numbers refer to the meat’s fat-to-protein ratio. For example:
- 80/20 ground beef has 80% lean meat and 20% fat, making it juicier, more tender, and packed with flavor perfect for recipes like this casserole.
- 95% lean ground beef has much less fat, so it’s healthier but can be drier. For keto recipes, I recommend 80/20 for the best flavor and texture.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! If you’re like me and love having dinner ready to go on those crazy, busy nights, this casserole is a lifesaver. Just put it all together, cover it up, and stash it in the fridge for up to a day. Then, when you’re ready for a cozy, no-fuss dinner, pop it in the oven. It’s like having a homemade meal on standby—perfect for those days when you’re running around like crazy!
Is this Easy Low-Carb Ground Beef Casserole Gluten-Free?
Yep, it is! This casserole is naturally gluten-free since it’s made with simple, whole ingredients like ground beef, cream cheese, cheddar, and green beans. Just double-check your seasonings and sauces to ensure they’re gluten-free, as gluten can sneak into unexpected places.
Can I make this casserole keto-friendly?
Good news it already is! Each serving has less than 4g net carbs, so it’s a perfect fit for your low-carb or keto meal plan. You can enjoy this comforting casserole without worrying about your macros.
Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the cream cheese and heavy cream for dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream or almond-based cream cheese. Use a plant-based cheese substitute for the topping.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just use a larger baking dish and double all the ingredients. You might need to add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through
What Can I Serve With It?
I like to keep it simple by pairing it with a fresh, leafy garden salad for a light side. If you’re feeling fancy, it’s also delicious with Keto Cheddar Bay Biscuits or Creamy Keto Cauliflower Mash.
Keto Ground Beef Casserole Recipe Variations: Meat, Veggies, and Seasonings:
Meat Variations:
Switching up the protein is an easy way to keep this recipe fresh and exciting! Here are a few ideas:
- Ground turkey or chicken if you’re in the mood for something lighter.
- Italian sausage for a bold, savory twist.
- Ground pork or shredded chicken works beautifully, too.
💡Pro Tip: If you’re using chicken or turkey, swap the beef broth for chicken broth for the best flavor!
Vegetable Variations:
Feel free to mix things up with your favorite low-carb veggies! Here are some options to try:
Zucchini
Broccoli
Asparagus
Squash
Mushrooms
Seasoning Variations:
Spice it up or make it your own with these simple seasoning swaps:
- For a Tex-Mex twist, top the casserole with sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, and a dollop of sour cream after baking.
- Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes if you like it spicy.
- A dash of Worcestershire sauce can bring an extra layer of depth and umami flavor.
✨ Love taco flavors? If you’re craving something with a little spice, my World’s Best Taco Meat Recipe is a game-changer! It’s packed with bold seasoning, super versatile, and perfect for meal prep. Use it in lettuce wraps, taco bowls, or even sprinkle it over this casserole for a Tex-Mex twist!
Storing and Freezing Your Low-Carb Casserole
Refrigeration:
Once you’ve enjoyed your casserole, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Perfect for quick lunches or dinners later in the week!
Freezing:
This casserole is freezer-friendly, which makes it a lifesaver for meal prep. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and a layer of foil. This double-wrap helps prevent freezer burn, and you can freeze it for up to 3 months.
💡 Heads-up: Dairy sometimes changes texture slightly after freezing, but don’t worry it’ll still taste just as delicious!
Thawing & Reheating:
When you’re ready to enjoy it, let the casserole thaw overnight in the fridge. Then, reheat it in a 325°F oven for about 30 minutes or until it’s heated all the way through.
In a hurry? You can microwave it! For single servings, I start with 30-second intervals, stirring in between to make sure it warms evenly.
While this low-carb version might look a little different than my childhood friend’s mom’s casserole with potatoes, it’s packed with all those same comforting flavors. It’s hearty, cheesy, and perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week. I hope you love this recipe as much as my family does.
