Description

A hearty, flavor-packed taco casserole with seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and vibrant vegetables – all while keeping carbs low for a keto-friendly dinner the whole family will love.

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds ground beef (80/20)
3 tablespoons taco seasoning
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup sour cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chiles, drained
1 medium bell pepper, diced
1 medium onion, diced
1 jalapeño pepper, diced (optional)
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onions and bell peppers, sautéing for 5 minutes until softened.
3. Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks until no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.
4. Stir in taco seasoning, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until spices are fragrant.
5. Remove skillet from heat and add softened cream cheese and sour cream, stirring until well combined and creamy.
6. Fold in drained diced tomatoes with green chiles and jalapeño if using.
7. Spread the meat mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
8. Sprinkle half of the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese over the meat layer.
9. Bake for 15 minutes, then add remaining cheese on top.
10. Continue baking for 10-15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and lightly browned.
11. Optional: Switch to broil for the last 2 minutes for a crispy top, watching carefully.
12. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or larger portions in a 325°F oven for 20 minutes. Can be frozen for up to 3 months either before or after baking. Top with sour cream, avocado, sliced jalapeños, or crushed pork rinds for extra flavor and crunch.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Mexican-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (1/8 of casserole)
Calories: 425
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 780mg
Fat: 31g
Carbohydrates: 9g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 32g