10 Low Carb Ground Beef Casseroles Without Sacrificing Flavor

Looking for delicious low-carb meals that don’t skimp on flavor? Ground beef casseroles are a favorite in my kitchen, especially when they deliver on taste and nutrition. From cheesy beef and cauliflower to an Italian-style beef and pepper bake, these dishes bring comfort food to a whole new level. Ready to explore some hearty and satisfying options? Let’s get cooking and enjoy these mouthwatering creations!

Cheesy Beef and Cauliflower Casserole

Cheesy Beef and Cauliflower Casserole is a delightful and nutritious low-carb dish that will satisfy your cravings for comfort food while keeping your carbohydrate intake in check. This casserole combines savory ground beef, tender cauliflower, and a rich, cheesy sauce to create a mouthwatering meal perfect for family dinners or meal prepping.

With its gooey cheese topping and flavorful beef, this casserole is bound to become a favorite in your household, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures. This dish isn’t only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights.

Ground beef provides a hearty base, while cauliflower adds a healthy twist by replacing traditional pasta or potatoes found in similar casseroles. The cheese sauce, made with a blend of cream cheese, cheddar, and mozzarella, ties everything together with its creamy richness.

Make certain to follow the detailed instructions below to create this satisfying dish for 4-6 people.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 large head of cauliflower, chopped into florets
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will guarantee that the casserole cooks evenly and the cheese melts perfectly.
2. Prepare the Cauliflower: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for about 5 minutes, or until they’re just tender. Drain the cauliflower and set it aside.
3. Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until it’s browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
4. Mix the Cheese Sauce: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the cream cheese, heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until smooth and creamy.
5. Assemble the Casserole: In a large baking dish, spread the cooked cauliflower evenly. Top with the cooked ground beef mixture. Pour the cheese sauce over the beef and cauliflower, ensuring everything is well-coated. Sprinkle the cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and begins to turn golden brown.
7. Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.

Extra Tips:

For a more flavorful casserole, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef for a bit of heat. If you prefer, you can also substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

To guarantee even cooking, make sure the cauliflower florets are all roughly the same size. Additionally, you can prepare this dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days before baking, making it a convenient option for meal prep.

Zucchini and Ground Beef Bake

Zucchini and Ground Beef Bake is a delightful low-carb casserole that’s perfect for a hearty dinner without the extra carbs. This dish combines the savory flavors of ground beef with the fresh and slightly sweet taste of zucchini, all topped with a cheesy crust that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

It’s an ideal meal for those looking to maintain a low-carb lifestyle without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. This casserole isn’t only delicious but also quite easy to prepare. It requires minimal ingredients, most of which you might already have in your kitchen.

The zucchini adds an invigorating touch and balances out the richness of the ground beef and cheese. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner with friends, this Zucchini and Ground Beef Bake is sure to be a hit. It’s designed to serve 4-6 people, making it a great option for a small gathering or a family meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will guarantee it’s hot enough to bake the casserole evenly once it’s assembled.

2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and allow it to heat up. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

Next, add the ground beef to the skillet, cooking it until it’s browned and cooked through. Break up the meat with a spatula as it cooks. Once cooked, drain any excess fat.

3. Prepare the Zucchini: While the beef is cooking, slice the zucchinis into thin rounds. This will help them cook evenly in the oven.

4. Assemble the Casserole: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef mixture with the drained diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to incorporate all ingredients.

In a 9×13 inch baking dish, layer half of the zucchini slices on the bottom. Spread half of the ground beef mixture over the zucchini. Repeat with another layer of zucchini and the remaining beef mixture.

5. Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top of the casserole. The cheese will melt and form a delicious crust on top during baking.

6. Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, and the zucchini is tender.

7. Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help the layers to set slightly, making it easier to cut and serve.

Extra Tips:

For a more robust flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of Italian seasoning or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ground beef mixture.

You can also substitute cheddar cheese for mozzarella if you prefer a sharper cheese flavor. If you find that your zucchini is releasing too much moisture during baking, consider lightly salting and letting it sit for a few minutes before layering, then pat dry with a paper towel. This will help to prevent the casserole from becoming watery.

Mexican-Inspired Beef Casserole

This Mexican-Inspired Low Carb Ground Beef Casserole is a delightful combination of bold flavors and satisfying textures that will please the entire family. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this dish is packed with seasoned ground beef, colorful bell peppers, and a creamy cheesy topping that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

The best part? It’s low in carbohydrates, making it an excellent choice for those following a low-carb diet.

The casserole isn’t only easy to prepare but can also be made ahead of time and popped into the oven when you’re ready to enjoy. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that’s both nutritious and delicious. The Mexican-inspired spices provide a rich and zesty taste, while the use of cauliflower rice keeps it low in carbs without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.

Ingredients for 4-6 servings:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 bell peppers (any color), chopped
• 1 cup cauliflower rice
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil and set aside.
2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned and crumbled, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell peppers to the skillet with the ground beef. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add Cauliflower Rice and Seasonings: Stir in the cauliflower rice, diced tomatoes, diced green chilies, chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture to the prepared baking dish. Smooth it out into an even layer.
6. Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
7. Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro before serving.

Extra Tips:

For a bit of extra heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some sliced jalapeños to the casserole mixture.

You can also substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

If you’re preparing this dish ahead of time, assemble everything except the cheese topping and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, add the cheese and continue with the baking instructions.

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or a side of avocado slices for added creaminess.

Spinach and Beef Casserole Delight

Spinach and Beef Casserole Delight is a savory and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a low-carb meal option. This casserole is a delightful blend of hearty ground beef, fresh spinach, and a creamy cheese topping that will please even the pickiest eaters.

It’s an easy-to-make dish that combines the rich flavors of beef and the earthy taste of spinach, all baked to perfection. Whether you’re following a low-carb diet or simply looking for a comforting meal, this casserole is bound to become a family favorite.

This dish isn’t only delicious but also nutritious, providing a good dose of protein from the beef and vitamins from the spinach. The cheese adds a creamy texture and rich flavor, while the seasoning enhances the overall taste of the casserole.

It’s an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner or a weekend family gathering. Easily prepared in under an hour, Spinach and Beef Casserole Delight is a convenient and wholesome meal option that will leave everyone satisfied.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 10 ounces fresh spinach
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 large eggs

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to make sure it’s ready for baking once the casserole is assembled.
2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté until the onion is translucent. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
3. Add the Spinach: Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until it wilts, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil. Mix well to combine the flavors.
4. Prepare the Cream Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and eggs until smooth and well combined.
5. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the beef and spinach mixture into a baking dish. Pour the cream and cheese mixture evenly over the top of the beef and spinach.
6. Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.
7. Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help the casserole to set and make it easier to cut and serve.

Extra Tips:

For additional flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for a bit of heat. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter meat option.

If you like a bit of crunch, sprinkle some crushed pork rinds on top of the casserole before baking. To guarantee even cooking, make sure the spinach is well distributed throughout the beef mixture.

Finally, for a vegetarian version, you can replace the ground beef with your favorite meat substitute.

Creamy Mushroom and Beef Casserole

Creamy Mushroom and Beef Casserole is a delicious low-carb dish perfect for those seeking a comforting yet healthy meal. This casserole combines the rich flavors of ground beef with the earthy taste of mushrooms, all enveloped in a creamy sauce.

It’s a hearty dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or meal prepping for the week. This recipe serves 4-6 people and is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while keeping the carbohydrate content low.

The creamy texture and savory taste of this casserole make it a favorite for both kids and adults alike. It’s also versatile enough to allow for ingredient substitutions based on dietary preferences or availability.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will guarantee that the casserole cooks evenly once assembled.
2. Cook the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and brown the ground beef. Break up the meat with a spoon and cook until it’s no longer pink. Once cooked, drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
3. Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the butter and sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking until the mushrooms are tender and have released their moisture.
4. Combine ingredients: Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir in the heavy cream, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until everything is well combined and the cheese has melted into the sauce.
5. Add spinach: Gently fold in the fresh spinach and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach has wilted.
6. Assemble the casserole: Transfer the beef and mushroom mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
7. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
8. Garnish and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Extra Tips:

For added flavor, you can incorporate a splash of white wine while sautéing the onions and mushrooms. If you prefer a different cheese, cheddar or gouda can be excellent substitutes for mozzarella.

If you want to add more vegetables, consider including bell peppers or zucchini. Always verify to taste and adjust the seasoning before baking, as the flavor can vary based on the type of mushrooms and beef used.

This dish can easily be reheated and makes for delightful leftovers.

Cabbage and Beef Skillet Casserole

Cabbage and Beef Skillet Casserole is a delightful low-carb dish that combines the comforting flavors of ground beef and cabbage into a hearty meal. This dish is perfect for those looking for a satisfying and nutritious dinner option that doesn’t compromise on taste. The combination of savory beef, tender cabbage, and a blend of spices makes for an irresistible casserole that will have everyone going back for seconds.

Whether you’re following a low-carb diet or simply looking for a wholesome meal, this casserole is guaranteed to please.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the use of fresh, wholesome ingredients. The cabbage and beef skillet casserole comes together in one pan, making it not only easy to prepare but also a breeze to clean up. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour.

The flavors meld together beautifully as the dish cooks, resulting in a casserole that’s both filling and flavorful, perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in.

Ingredients (Serving Size: 4-6 people):

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional, for topping)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by washing and chopping the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Dice the onion and mince the garlic. Drain the canned tomatoes and set aside.
2. Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
3. Add Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
4. Combine Ingredients: Stir in the chopped cabbage, drained tomatoes, smoked paprika, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to ascertain all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
5. Cook the Casserole: Cover the skillet with a lid and let the mixture cook over medium-low heat for about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded together.
6. Add Cheese (Optional): If you desire a cheesy topping, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the casserole. Cover the skillet again and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve: Once cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and let it sit for a couple of minutes. Serve warm, and enjoy your delicious cabbage and beef skillet casserole.

Extra Tips:

For added flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce when cooking the beef. If you prefer a spicier dish, you can include a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

This casserole can easily be customized with additional vegetables like bell peppers or carrots, depending on your preference. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a great option for meal prep.

Eggplant and Beef Parmesan Bake

Eggplant and Beef Parmesan Bake is a delightful low-carb dish that combines the rich flavors of ground beef and the subtle sweetness of eggplant, all topped with gooey melted cheese. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering, providing a hearty and satisfying meal without the carbs. The layers of eggplant and beef are infused with Italian herbs, making each bite flavorful and comforting.

This casserole isn’t only delicious but also nutritious, as eggplants are packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The combination of beef and cheese provides a good source of protein, making this dish both filling and balanced. It’s an excellent way to enjoy classic Italian flavors while adhering to a low-carb lifestyle. Prepare this dish for a serving size of 4-6 people, and watch it disappear from the table in no time.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Eggplants: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the eggplant slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. Lightly brush both sides with olive oil. Bake for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re tender and slightly golden.
2. Cook the Beef Mixture: While the eggplants are baking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent. Stir in the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Pour in the marinara sauce, and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes.
3. Assemble the Casserole: In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the beef mixture on the bottom. Arrange a layer of baked eggplant slices over the beef. Sprinkle a portion of mozzarella cheese over the eggplant. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of beef mixture topped with the remaining mozzarella and the grated Parmesan cheese.
4. Bake the Casserole: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
5. Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, and serve warm.

Extra Tips: For a more robust flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for a slight kick. Confirm the eggplants are cooked until soft before assembling the casserole, as this will prevent a tough texture. If you prefer a slightly thicker sauce, allow the beef mixture to simmer longer to reduce and concentrate the flavors. Finally, let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking; this will make slicing and serving much easier.

Broccoli and Beef Casserole Supreme

Searching for a delicious, low-carb meal that satisfies your cravings and keeps you on track with your dietary goals? Seek no further than the Broccoli and Beef Casserole Supreme. This hearty dish combines the savory goodness of ground beef with the nutritional punch of broccoli, all enveloped in a cheesy, creamy sauce.

It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prepping, offering a comforting taste of home with every bite. This casserole isn’t only tasty but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. With a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, you’ll have a flavorful dish that everyone will love.

Plus, it’s a great way to sneak some vegetables into your meals without sacrificing flavor. Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to make sure it’s hot enough when the casserole is ready to bake.

2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once heated, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.

Then, add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.

3. Blanch the Broccoli: While the beef is cooking, bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch them for about 3 minutes until they’re bright green and slightly tender. Drain and set aside.

4. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, blanched broccoli, sour cream, heavy cream, 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.

5. Assemble the Casserole: In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spread the mixture evenly. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top.

6. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

7. Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your Broccoli and Beef Casserole Supreme warm.

Extra Tips:

For an added crunch, consider topping your casserole with some crushed pork rinds before baking. This will give it a nice texture without adding carbs.

If you’re looking to create a spicier version of this dish, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mixture. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed before baking to make sure the flavors are to your liking.

Enjoy your meal, and don’t forget to store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Italian-Style Beef and Pepper Casserole

Italian-Style Beef and Pepper Casserole is a savory and satisfying dish that combines the rich flavors of ground beef with the vibrant notes of bell peppers and Italian spices. This low-carb casserole is perfect for a family dinner and is bound to please everyone at the table.

With its combination of hearty beef, aromatic vegetables, and a cheesy topping, it’s a comforting meal that doesn’t compromise on taste or nutritional value.

This casserole isn’t only easy to prepare but also makes use of simple ingredients that are commonly found in most kitchens. It’s a versatile dish that can be adjusted according to your taste preferences by adding different types of cheese or spices.

Whether you’re following a low-carb diet or just looking for a delicious and filling meal, this Italian-Style Beef and Pepper Casserole is a fantastic option.

Ingredients (serves 4-6):

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 bell peppers, sliced (red and green)
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to guarantee it’s ready for baking the casserole after preparation.

2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

3. Add Vegetables and Spices: Once the beef is cooked, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and sliced bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Stir in the diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

4. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the beef and vegetable mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.

5. Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the beef mixture.

6. Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with a golden-brown crust.

7. Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve hot.

Extra Tips:

For a little extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.

If you prefer a creamier texture, mix in a few tablespoons of cream cheese with the beef before transferring it to the baking dish.

You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as provolone or cheddar, to suit your taste.

This dish can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making it a convenient option for meal prep or a busy weeknight dinner.

Southwestern Beef and Cauliflower Rice Casserole

Southwestern Beef and Cauliflower Rice Casserole is a delightful low-carb dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the Southwest into your kitchen. This casserole combines seasoned ground beef with cauliflower rice, creating a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for anyone looking to reduce their carbohydrate intake without sacrificing taste.

The dish is layered with spices, vegetables, and cheese, making it a family favorite that’s both nutritious and delicious. This casserole makes an excellent option for a cozy family dinner or a meal prep dish that can be enjoyed throughout the week.

It’s simple to prepare and can be easily customized with your favorite toppings or additional vegetables. Whether you’re following a low-carb diet or just looking for a comforting meal that’s full of flavor, Southwestern Beef and Cauliflower Rice Casserole is bound to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup corn kernels (optional for low-carb)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cups cauliflower rice
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
• 1 avocado, sliced (optional garnish)
• Sour cream (optional garnish)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to guarantee it’s ready for baking once the casserole is assembled.
2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
3. Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and red bell pepper to the skillet with the beef. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
4. Add Seasonings: Stir in the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the beef and vegetables evenly with the spices.
5. Incorporate Tomatoes and Corn: Add the drained diced tomatoes and corn (if using) into the skillet. Stir to combine. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Prepare Cauliflower Rice: In a large bowl, combine the cauliflower rice with the beef mixture. Mix thoroughly to confirm the cauliflower rice is evenly distributed.
7. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
8. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped cilantro and sliced avocado if desired. Serve with a dollop of sour cream on the side.

Extra Tips: When preparing the cauliflower rice, you can either buy pre-riced cauliflower from the store or make your own by pulsing cauliflower florets in a food processor until they resemble rice grains.

Be sure to squeeze out any excess moisture from the cauliflower rice using a clean kitchen towel to avoid a soggy casserole. For extra flavor, consider adding a dash of lime juice or a sprinkle of taco seasoning to the mixture.

This dish is versatile and can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences by adding or omitting ingredients as desired.