Keto Tex Mex Ground Beef Casserole Recipe

Ground beef: The main protein source, providing a rich and savory base.

Cheddar cheese: Adds a creamy and melty texture to the casserole.

Sour cream: Offers a tangy and creamy element that balances the spices.

Salsa: Brings a zesty and slightly spicy flavor to the dish.

Taco seasoning: A blend of spices that gives the casserole its Tex Mex flair.

Bell pepper: Adds a sweet and crunchy texture.

Onion: Provides a savory and aromatic base.

When browning the ground beef, ensure you break it up into small, even pieces using a wooden spoon or spatula. This allows for more even cooking and better texture in your casserole. Additionally, when adding the diced bell pepper and onion, cook them until they are just starting to soften but still retain a bit of crunch. This will add a nice texture contrast to the final dish.

• ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and still provides a similar texture and flavor profile.

• shredded cheddar cheese - Substitute with shredded mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella has a milder flavor and melts well, making it a good alternative.

• sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt is lower in carbs and provides a similar creamy texture.

• salsa - Substitute with diced tomatoes with green chilies: This provides a similar flavor profile with a bit of added spice.

• taco seasoning - Substitute with homemade taco seasoning: You can control the ingredients and avoid any added sugars or fillers.

• bell pepper - Substitute with zucchini: Zucchini is low in carbs and provides a similar texture when cooked.

• onion - Substitute with green onions: Green onions have a milder flavor and are lower in carbs compared to regular onions.

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. This helps maintain the texture and flavor.
• Transfer the casserole to an airtight container. If you plan to store it in the same baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• For short-term storage, place the container in the refrigerator. The casserole will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• For long-term storage, consider freezing. Divide the casserole into individual portions for easier reheating. Wrap each portion in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Label the containers with the date to keep track of freshness.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen casserole in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, approximately 20-25 minutes. If reheating from frozen, it may take a bit longer.
• Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave on medium power, checking and stirring every minute until hot.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover Keto Tex Mex Ground Beef Casserole in an oven-safe dish. Cover with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.

• For a quicker method, use the microwave. Transfer a portion of the casserole to a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

• If you prefer a stovetop method, place the casserole in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it from drying out. Cover and heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

• For an air fryer, preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an air fryer-safe dish. Heat for 5-7 minutes, checking halfway to ensure it doesn’t overcook.

• To reheat in a toaster oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for 15-20 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.

• Oven: Used to bake the casserole at 375°F (190°C) until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

• Skillet: Used to cook the ground beef and sauté the diced bell pepper and onion.

• Spatula: Handy for stirring the ground beef and vegetables in the skillet.

• Baking dish: Where you layer the beef mixture, sour cream, and shredded cheese before baking.

• Measuring cups: Essential for measuring out the sour cream, salsa, and shredded cheese.

• Knife: Used to dice the bell pepper and onion.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for dicing the vegetables.

• Mixing spoon: Useful for combining the taco seasoning and salsa with the beef mixture.

• Oven mitts: Protect your hands when placing the baking dish in the oven and taking it out.

• Colander: Optional, but useful for draining excess fat from the cooked ground beef.

Pre-cook ingredients: Cook the ground beef, bell pepper, and onion in advance and store them in the fridge.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Save time by using pre-shredded cheddar cheese instead of shredding it yourself.

One-pan method: Cook the beef mixture in an oven-safe skillet to skip transferring to a baking dish.

Batch cooking: Double the recipe and freeze half for a quick meal later.

Pre-mixed seasoning: Use store-bought taco seasoning to save time on measuring spices.