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Low Carb Taco Casserole Recipe

4.7 from 85 reviews

This Low Carb Taco Casserole is a flavorful, hearty dish perfect for those seeking a nutritious and satisfying meal with minimal carbs. Featuring a base of pan-fried cauliflower rice, seasoned ground beef with taco spices, and melted cheese, it is topped with creamy sour cream and fresh, vibrant toppings like lettuce, tomato, and avocado to create a delicious, layered casserole that’s simple to prepare and ideal for family dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 10 ounces Frozen Cauliflower Rice
  • 23 Tablespoons Oil (such as olive or avocado oil)
  • 2 Pounds Ground Beef
  • 1 Small Red Bell Pepper – seeded and chopped
  • 1 Small White Onion – chopped
  • 4 Tablespoons Taco Seasoning
  • 1 Tablespoon Tomato Paste
  • 1/2 Cup Water
  • 3 Cups Shredded Colby/Jack Cheese
  • 1 Cup Sour Cream

Toppings

  • Chopped Lettuce
  • Chopped Tomato
  • Sliced Black Olives
  • Avocado or Guacamole
  • Cilantro
  • Sliced Jalapeno
  • Salsa or Hot Sauce

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) to prepare for baking the casserole later.
  2. Cook the cauliflower rice: Heat 2-3 tablespoons of oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the frozen cauliflower rice and sauté, stirring occasionally, until it becomes browned and slightly crispy. This step enhances the flavor and texture of the cauliflower. Once browned, transfer the cauliflower rice evenly into a greased 2-quart casserole dish.
  3. Prepare the seasoned ground beef: In the same pan, cook the ground beef, chopped red bell pepper, and chopped white onion over medium-high heat. Break up the meat as it cooks to ensure even browning. When the beef is cooked through and vegetables have softened, drain any excess fat if necessary. Stir in the taco seasoning, tomato paste, and water, then cook while stirring until the liquid is mostly absorbed and the mixture is thick and flavorful. Spread this beef mixture evenly over the cauliflower rice layer in the casserole dish.
  4. Top with cheese and bake: Sprinkle 3 cups of shredded Colby/Jack cheese evenly over the beef layer. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  5. Add the finishing touches: Remove the casserole from the oven and spread 1 cup of sour cream over the top. For extra richness and presentation, sprinkle additional shredded cheese if desired. Finally, garnish with your choice of chopped lettuce, tomato, sliced black olives, avocado or guacamole, fresh cilantro, sliced jalapenos, and a drizzle of salsa or hot sauce to add freshness and a spicy kick.

Notes

  • You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef if preferred.
  • Use different cheese blends such as Monterey Jack or cheddar based on taste.
  • Be cautious with the amount of taco seasoning if you prefer less sodium or spice.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
  • Adding a layer of refried beans or black beans can increase fiber and protein, though it will increase the carb count slightly.

Keywords: Low Carb, Taco Casserole, Cauliflower Rice, Ground Beef, Mexican, Healthy Dinner, Gluten Free, Low Carb Dinner