Cheesy Keto Ground Beef and Veggie Bake
If you’ve been craving comfort food without the carbs, this keto cheesy ground beef casserole is exactly what you need. It’s rich, satisfying, and loaded with flavor while staying low-carb and gluten-free. With tender cauliflower, fresh spinach, and a creamy beef base topped with golden, bubbly cheese, this bake checks all the boxes for an easy keto-friendly dinner.
Not only is it hearty enough to serve as a main dish, but it also works beautifully for meal prep or potlucks. Every forkful delivers cheesy goodness, perfectly seasoned beef, and nutrient-packed veggies all baked together in one dish for maximum convenience.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious keto cheesy ground beef casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into small florets
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the cauliflower – Steam the florets until fork tender, about 8–10 minutes. Set aside.
- Sauté aromatics – Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent (3–4 minutes). Stir in garlic and cook 1 more minute.
- Brown the beef – Add ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Cook until browned (7–8 minutes), then drain excess fat.
- Season and add spinach – Stir in oregano, paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, pepper, and spinach. Cook until spinach wilts.
- Make it creamy – Reduce heat and stir in cream cheese and sour cream until smooth and combined.
- Fold in cauliflower – Gently mix in the steamed cauliflower florets.
- Assemble the casserole – Transfer mixture into the baking dish. Top with mozzarella and cheddar.
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
- Cool and serve – Let sit for 5 minutes before serving warm.
⏱ Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
🍴 Servings: 6 | 🔥 Calories: ~385 kcal per serving
Why You’ll Love This Keto Cheesy Ground Beef Casserole
- ✅ Low-carb comfort food that doesn’t feel like diet food.
- ✅ Family-friendly – Even non-keto eaters will love it.
- ✅ Meal prep approved – Reheats beautifully for busy weeknights.
- ✅ Versatile – Customize with your favorite proteins, veggies, or cheeses.
- ✅ Satisfying – Packed with protein, healthy fats, and fiber.
Variations and Tips
- Swap the protein – Use ground turkey, chicken, or pork instead of beef.
- Mix up the cheeses – Try Gruyère, pepper jack, or parmesan for different flavor profiles.
- Add more veggies – Mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers fit in perfectly.
- Make it crunchy – Sprinkle crushed pork rinds on top before baking.
- Meal prep hack – Double the recipe and freeze portions for quick keto dinners.
Serving Suggestions
This keto cheesy ground beef bake is a full meal on its own, but you can also pair it with:
- A crisp green salad with olive oil and lemon.
- Steamed broccoli or green beans for extra fiber.
- Cauliflower rice on the side for an even heartier dish.
Conclusion
This keto cheesy ground beef casserole proves that low-carb eating doesn’t have to mean giving up comfort food. With simple ingredients, rich flavors, and gooey layers of cheese, it’s a dish that feels indulgent while keeping your goals on track.
Whether you’re new to keto or a seasoned pro, this casserole is sure to become a regular on your dinner table. Give it a try tonight and see why it’s the ultimate comfort food made keto-friendly!