Low Carb Taco Casserole

Tacos and low-carb? Yes, please! Imagine all the amazing taco flavors you love, but in a satisfying, hearty casserole.

This flavorful dish boasts just 10 grams of net carbs and a whopping 37 grams of protein per serving. It’s keto-friendly, gluten-free, and high in protein!

Taco casseroles are a crowd favorite, and for good reason. They’re easy to whip up, versatile, and packed with mouthwatering goodness.

Whether you’re prepping for a busy weeknight or serving up something special for guests, this taco casserole is guaranteed to be a winner!

The best part? It can seamlessly fit into a low-carb lifestyle without sacrificing any of the classic, bold flavors. Total win!

But this casserole isn’t just delicious—it’s also loaded with essential vitamins and minerals to keep your family fueled and strong.

With lean ground beef, red bell peppers, onions, and gooey cheese, you’ll get the perfect balance of taste and nutrition in every bite.

And if you want to put your own spin on it, there are endless options! Add in extra veggies like mushrooms or jalapeños, or mix things up with a blend of cheeses—think Pepper Jack combined with cheddar for an extra kick.

In short, this taco casserole is the perfect way to enjoy a comforting, home-cooked meal without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.

Ingredients and Substitutes

Olive Oil (2 tbsp) – Stick to regular olive oil here. Extra virgin olive oil is best reserved for raw uses like drizzling over salads.

Cauliflower Rice (2.5 cups) – No cauliflower? No problem! Swap it out with broccoli rice or even a combo of both for added flavor and texture.

Lean Ground Beef (2 lbs) – Ground chicken or turkey works just as well. For a plant-based option, opt for plant-based ground beef—it’s just as hearty!

1 Red Bell Pepper – Mix it up by adding bell peppers in different colors. Not only does it make the dish more vibrant, but it also adds extra nutrients.

1 Small White Onion – Feel free to use yellow onions, or red onions if you want a bolder flavor profile.

Taco Seasoning (4 tbsp) – This is non-negotiable! The taco seasoning is the secret to that bold, flavorful punch, so don’t skimp on it.

Tomato Paste (1 tbsp)

Water (1/2 cup)

Cheddar Cheese, Shredded (3 cups) – Mix it up with different cheeses! Try adding a bit of Pepper Jack for some heat.

Sour Cream (1 cup) – For a protein-packed twist, swap it with plain Greek yogurt.

Optional Toppings

Salsa (1 cup) – Keep it mild if you’re not into spice, or crank up the heat with a spicier version.

Chopped Lettuce (1 cup) – Kale or spinach are great alternatives to give it a nutritious twist.

1 Tomato – Any variety will work, but cherry tomatoes are a favorite for their sweetness and easy prep.

Black Olives (10) – Green olives can easily step in if black ones aren’t available.

1 Avocado – If you’re feeling adventurous, go for guacamole instead of sliced avocado.

Cilantro – Fresh cilantro is a must for that bright, herbaceous flavor.

1 Jalapeno – To tone down the heat, remove the seeds before adding it in.

Mozzarella Cheese, Shredded (1/8 cup)

How to Make Low-Carb Taco Casserole

Step 1: Set the mood by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grab a trusty 9×13-inch baking dish and lightly coat it with olive oil so everything bakes up just right.

Step 2: Heat a frying pan over medium-high heat, drizzle in some olive oil, and toss in the cauliflower rice. Cook it until it turns a nice golden brown, which should take about 5-10 minutes.

Step 3: Once the cauliflower rice is ready, transfer it into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer with a spatula.

Step 4: Using the same pan (no need for extra dishes!), sauté the ground beef along with diced bell peppers and onions. Cook until the beef is browned and the veggies are tender—this should take about 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to drain off any extra fat!

Step 5: Stir in the taco seasoning, tomato paste, and a splash of water. Mix it all up, and let it simmer until the liquid evaporates, about 7-10 minutes.

Step 6: Layer the beef mixture over the cauliflower rice in your baking dish, making sure everything is evenly spread.

Step 7: Now for the fun part—sprinkle a generous handful of cheddar cheese on top of the beef mixture.

Step 8: Pop the dish into the oven and let it bake for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is perfectly melted and bubbly.

Step 9: Once out of the oven, slather a layer of sour cream on top, followed by a final sprinkle of cheddar cheese.

Step 10: Serve it up with your favorite toppings—guacamole, jalapeños, salsa, or whatever you like!

Tasty Sides for Your Taco Casserole

The right sides and toppings can really take your low-carb taco casserole to the next level. Here are some of my favorite pairings that complement this flavorful dish:

• Creamy guacamole
• Crisp Caesar salad
• Low-carb tortillas
• Fresh, zesty salsa
• Light quinoa salad

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

One of the best things about this taco casserole is how well it keeps, making it perfect for meal prep.

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll stay fresh for up to four days.

If you need to store them longer, portion the casserole into freezer-safe containers. This way, it’ll stay fresh for up to three months.

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply heat it in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or bake at 350°F until warmed through.

Give this recipe a try and discover how easy and delicious healthy eating can be!

Other Low Carb Casseroles

• Keto Cauliflower Ziti
• Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole
• Chicken Broccoli Bake
• Sausage and Spinach Breakfast Casserole

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Source: https://allnutritious.com/low-carb-taco-casserole/