Ground Beef Casserole

A very tasty ground beef casserole that is also healthy, keto, and low carb. A super easy recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner. Leftovers are great too!

Whenever I’m not sure what to make for dinner, I turn to this easy and healthy ground beef casserole. It’s keto-friendly and low in carbs, and if you’re counting calories, it’s low in those too. But most importantly, it’s delicious!

I always keep vacuum-packed ground beef in the fridge because it’s incredibly convenient. I use it to whip up various delicious ground beef recipes, including kale casserole, Korean ground beef, and ground beef meat pies.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This ground beef casserole is not just about simplicity; it’s about flavor and health. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, and even better, it makes fantastic leftovers. The combination of spices, cream cheese, and cheddar creates a comforting dish that’s hard to resist.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 2-quart casserole dish
• Large nonstick skillet
• Oven

Ingredients

• Olive oil spray for pan
• 2 lb. extra lean ground beef (93% lean)
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 4 oz reduced fat cream cheese, cubed
• 1 cup shredded cheddar, divided
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Lightly spray a 2-quart casserole dish with olive oil and set it aside.
2. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly spray it with olive oil.
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, stirring and breaking up the meat into small pieces, until the meat is no longer raw, about 5 minutes. If desired, drain the beef and return it to the skillet.
4. Reduce the heat to medium. Mix the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper into the beef. Slowly and patiently mix in the cream cheese until fully melted and incorporated.
5. Turn off the heat and mix 1/2 cup of the shredded cheddar into the beef mixture.
6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared 2-quart casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar on top.
7. Bake the casserole until the cheese is melted, about 10 minutes. Garnish with parsley and serve.

Tips for Success

• For a smoother texture, ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing.
• If you prefer a bit more spice, adjust the cayenne pepper to your taste.

Additional Tips and Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can add a medium chopped onion while browning the beef for extra flavor. Alternatively, try mixing in some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for added texture and nutrition.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This casserole is not just delicious; it’s nutritious! With high protein content and low carbs, it’s perfect for those on a keto diet.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute cheddar with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

This ground beef casserole is a delightful mix of simplicity and flavor, perfect for any weeknight meal. I encourage you to try it out and share your experience with us. Happy cooking!