If you’re looking for a hearty, satisfying, and low-carb dinner option, this Low-Carb Beef Casserole is the perfect choice!
Packed with rich, savory ground beef, creamy cheese, and flavorful seasonings, this dish delivers all the comfort of a classic casserole without the unnecessary carbs.
It’s easy to prepare, making it an ideal weeknight dinner or meal prep option.
Whether you’re following a keto diet or simply want a wholesome, protein-packed meal, this casserole is sure to be a hit with the whole family!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
A Delicious & Healthy Low-Carb Comfort Food
This casserole brings the best of both worlds—rich, cheesy, and packed with flavor while keeping things low-carb and gluten-free.
Quick & Easy to Make
With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have this meal ready for baking in under 15 minutes!
Perfect for Meal Prep
This casserole stores and reheats well, making it a great option for busy weekdays or make-ahead meals.
Customizable & Family-Friendly
Add your favorite vegetables, swap the cheese for different flavors, or spice it up to suit your taste—this recipe is versatile and delicious every time!
Ingredients Needed
For the Casserole Base
- Ground beef – Use 85/15 or 90/10 for a balance of flavor and texture.
- Onion & garlic – Adds depth and aroma to the beef mixture.
- Diced tomatoes – Choose low-carb, no-sugar-added varieties.
- Beef broth – Enhances the savory flavor.
- Worcestershire sauce – A touch of umami for extra richness.
- Italian seasoning – A perfect blend of herbs for a well-rounded taste.
- Salt & black pepper – To season the beef perfectly.
For the Creamy Layer
- Cream cheese – Adds a smooth, creamy texture.
- Heavy cream – Helps bind the casserole while keeping it rich and flavorful.
- Shredded cheese – A mix of cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda works great.
- Eggs – Helps hold the layers together for the perfect texture.
Optional Toppings
- Chopped parsley – For a fresh finish.
- Crumbled bacon – Adds a smoky, crunchy element.
- Extra shredded cheese – Because more cheese is always better!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped onions and garlic in a little olive oil until softened.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Cheese Layer
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together cream cheese, heavy cream, eggs, and half of the shredded cheese until smooth.
- Add a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Spread the beef mixture evenly in the dish.
- Pour the cheese mixture over the beef layer, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top for a golden, bubbly finish.
Step 4: Bake & Serve
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or crumbled bacon, then serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Low-Carb Beef Casserole
1. Use High-Quality Ground Beef
Opt for 85/15 or 90/10 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and texture. Too much fat can make the casserole greasy, while too little can make it dry.
2. Drain Excess Grease
If your beef releases a lot of fat, drain it before adding the remaining ingredients to prevent the casserole from becoming oily.
3. Don’t Skip the Cream Cheese Mixture
The cream cheese, eggs, and heavy cream add the perfect creamy and cheesy texture that holds the casserole together.
4. Let It Rest Before Serving
Allow the casserole to rest for at least 5 minutes after baking. This helps the layers set, making it easier to cut and serve.
5. Add Extra Toppings for More Flavor
For extra crunch and taste, try topping your casserole with crumbled bacon, fresh parsley, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a slight kick.
How to Store and Reheat
Storing Leftovers
- Refrigeration: Store the casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Let the casserole cool completely before wrapping it in plastic wrap and foil. Store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions in 30-second intervals until hot.
- From Frozen: Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven.
Conclusion
This Low-Carb Beef Casserole is a fantastic way to enjoy a comforting, hearty meal while keeping your carb intake low.
With savory ground beef, a rich cheesy topping, and simple ingredients, it’s a perfect dinner for busy nights or meal prepping.
Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—add your favorite vegetables, switch up the cheeses, or spice it up to make it your own!
Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turned out in the comments below!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the cream cheese for dairy-free alternatives like cashew cream and use coconut milk instead of heavy cream.
Use dairy-free cheese for the topping.
2. What vegetables can I add to this casserole?
You can mix in zucchini, spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or cauliflower rice for added nutrition without adding too many carbs.
3. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well as a leaner option, though you may need to add extra seasoning for more flavor.
4. How do I prevent the casserole from being watery?
Make sure to drain any excess liquid from your beef mixture before assembling the casserole.
Also, avoid using watery vegetables like tomatoes without properly draining them.
5. Is this casserole keto-friendly?
Yes! This casserole is low in carbs and high in healthy fats, making it perfect for a keto diet.
Just be sure to check the ingredients for any added sugars.
Low-Carb Beef Casserole
Equipment
- 1 large skillet
- 1 Mixing Bowl
- 1 Baking Dish (9×13 inch)
- 1 Spatula
- 1 Whisk
- 1 Measuring Cup Set
- 1 Knife & Cutting Board
Ingredients
For the Beef Mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ cup diced bell peppers optional
- ½ cup sliced mushrooms optional
For the Creamy Cheese Mixture:
- 4 oz cream cheese softened
- ¼ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 2 large eggs beaten
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
For the Topping:
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Beef Mixture
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- Add the chopped onion, garlic, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Stir well and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- If using, add the diced bell peppers and mushrooms. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, then remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream cheese, sour cream, heavy cream, and eggs until smooth.
- Stir in 1 cup cheddar cheese and ½ cup mozzarella cheese. Mix until combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly into the dish.
- Pour the cheese mixture over the beef and spread it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese on top.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Make It Spicier: Add ½ tsp red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a little heat.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free cheese substitute.
- Vegetable Variations: Try adding cauliflower rice, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrients.
- Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
