Name: Cheesy Keto Ground Beef Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Olive oil spray (for pan); 2 pounds ground beef (85% lean); 1 teaspoon sea salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 4 ounces cream cheese (cubed); 1 cup cheddar (shredded, divided); 2 tablespoons parsley (chopped for garnish)

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If you’re in the mood for something that’s easy, comforting, and satisfies all your cheese-loving cravings without loading up on carbs, this Cheesy Keto Ground Beef Casserole is about to become your new favorite dish. Each bite delivers savory ground beef nestled in a blanket of gooey, melted cheese, subtly flavored with spices and a hint of creaminess from cream cheese. It’s hearty enough to please the whole family, and with only a handful of simple ingredients, you’ll have it on the table in no time!

Cheesy Keto Ground Beef Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s no need for fancy or complicated components here—just honest, flavorful ingredients that truly shine in this Cheesy Keto Ground Beef Casserole. Every item adds something special, from creaminess and richness to that irresistible cheesy finish.

Olive oil spray: A quick spray keeps everything from sticking and adds a subtle flavor boost without excess oil.
2 pounds ground beef (85% lean): The base of the casserole; 85% lean gives juicy, flavorful results without too much grease.
1 teaspoon sea salt: Enhances every savory note and brings all the flavors together.
¼ teaspoon black pepper: A little kick of heat that balances the rich cheese and beef.
2 teaspoons garlic powder: Delivers loads of flavor without the mess or prep of fresh garlic.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a gentle sweetness and depth you’ll notice in every bite.
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper: For a subtle pinch of warmth that won’t overwhelm.
4 ounces cream cheese (cubed): Brings a luscious, creamy texture that melds everything into a perfect whole.
1 cup cheddar (shredded, divided): Tangy sharpness and amazing meltiness—half for the beef, half for that golden-bubbly topping.
2 tablespoons parsley (chopped for garnish): A sprinkle of freshness and vibrant color to finish the casserole with flair.

How to Make Cheesy Keto Ground Beef Casserole

Step 1: Preheat and Prep the Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Then, grab a 2-quart casserole dish, give it a light spray with olive oil, and set it aside for later. This quick step guarantees effortless serving and cleanup while helping your casserole bake up evenly.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat a large 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high and spray it lightly with olive oil. Add the ground beef, stirring and breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks. In about five minutes, your beef should be fully browned with no pink remaining—perfectly juicy and savory! Drain off any excess fat to keep your casserole hearty but not greasy, then return the beef to the skillet.

Step 3: Season and Creamify

Lower the heat to medium before seasoning the beef with sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and a touch of cayenne. Next, add the cubed cream cheese. Take your time stirring—let the cream cheese melt gently into the beef, transforming it into a velvety, rich filling that sets the Cheesy Keto Ground Beef Casserole apart.

Step 4: Add Cheddar to the Mix

Once everything is smooth and well combined, turn off the heat and mix in half a cup of shredded cheddar cheese. This extra step infuses the filling with even more cheesy flavor and helps everything cling together beautifully.

Step 5: Assemble and Top with More Cheese

Transfer the beef mixture to your prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the rest of the cheddar cheese over the top, creating that iconic cheesy crust you’ll be dreaming about long after dinner.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Garnish

Slide the dish into your hot oven and bake for about 10 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and gloriously bubbly. Pull it out, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley, and serve right away. Your kitchen will smell absolutely irresistible!

How to Serve Cheesy Keto Ground Beef Casserole

Garnishes

A little garnish goes a long way. Try a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley or even thinly sliced green onions for a pop of color and brightness. Craving extra richness? Add a dollop of sour cream before diving in—it’s the perfect contrast to the cheesy, hearty casserole.

Side Dishes

While the Cheesy Keto Ground Beef Casserole can absolutely stand on its own, pairing it with a simple green salad tossed in olive oil and lemon juice is a wonderful way to balance out the richness. If you want something even more comforting, consider serving it with roasted broccoli, buttery cauliflower rice, or steamed asparagus on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

Dishing up individual servings in ramekins makes a fun, elegant option for dinner parties. For a cozy, family-style meal, simply scoop generous portions right from the casserole dish at the table—let everyone dig in! You can even spoon the casserole over blanched zucchini noodles or a bed of wilted spinach for extra veggies and color.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), let the casserole cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days, still tasting amazing when reheated for busy weekday lunches or dinners.

Freezing

The Cheesy Keto Ground Beef Casserole is freezer-friendly, making meal prep a breeze. After baking, let it cool, then wrap the dish well in plastic wrap and foil, or portion into airtight freezer containers. It will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 2 months—just remember to label it with the date!

Reheating

When you’re ready for round two, reheat portions in the microwave until warmed through or pop the whole casserole in a 350°F oven (covered) for about 20 minutes. If frozen, let it thaw overnight in the fridge first for the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of ground meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even pork will work well. Each protein will bring a slightly different flavor and texture, so choose whatever sounds tastiest—it’ll still be a delicious Cheesy Keto Ground Beef Casserole variation.

Is this casserole spicy?

The recipe includes a modest quarter teaspoon of cayenne, which adds a gentle warmth rather than sharp heat. If you love spice or want it milder, feel free to adjust the amount up or down to suit your preference.

Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Definitely! Chopped spinach, diced zucchini, or sautéed mushrooms all mix in beautifully. Just be sure to cook off any extra moisture before adding them to the beef to keep your Cheesy Keto Ground Beef Casserole satisfying and not soggy.

What kind of cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar melts perfectly and delivers fantastic flavor, but you can try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of your favorites for a new twist every time you make it.

Is it necessary to use full-fat cream cheese?

Full-fat cream cheese makes the casserole extra creamy and rich, but low-fat versions do work if you’re watching calories. Just keep in mind, the texture might be ever so slightly less velvety.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready for a recipe that checks every comfort food box while still fitting your low-carb lifestyle, give this Cheesy Keto Ground Beef Casserole a spot on your dinner rotation. It’s easy, crowd-pleasing, and guaranteed to become a classic in your kitchen. Don’t wait—try it tonight and see just how delicious keto can be!

Cheesy Keto Ground Beef Casserole Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 17 reviews

Author: lilan
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Keto

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Description

This Cheesy Keto Ground Beef Casserole is a flavorful and satisfying low-carb dish that’s perfect for a family dinner. With a blend of spices, ground beef, cream cheese, and cheddar, it’s a comforting casserole that’s easy to make.

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Lightly spray a 2-quart casserole dish with olive oil and set it aside.
Cook the ground beef: Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until no longer raw, about 5 minutes. Drain and return to skillet.
Season the beef: Mix in salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne. Add cream cheese and stir until melted.
Add cheese: Turn off the heat and mix in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar.
Assemble and bake: Transfer the mixture to the casserole dish, top with remaining cheddar, and bake for 10 minutes until cheese is melted.
Finish and serve: Garnish with parsley before serving.

Notes

You can customize the level of spiciness by adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper used.
This casserole reheats well and makes great leftovers for lunch or dinner the next day.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American