Keto Hamburger Casserole is a comforting, hearty, and low-carb dish that combines the flavors of seasoned ground beef, cheese, and vegetables, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or meal prep. With minimal carbs and high in fats and proteins, this casserole is perfect for those on a ketogenic diet who are looking for a satisfying meal that the whole family can enjoy.

Ingredients:

  • For the Casserole:
    • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for more flavor)
    • 1 small onion, diced
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 medium zucchini, diced
    • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
    • 1 can diced tomatoes (sugar-free, drained)
    • 1/2 cup heavy cream
    • 1/4 cup sour cream
    • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
    • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
    • 1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
    • 1 tsp paprika
    • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
    • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish or baking pan.

2. Brown the Ground Beef:

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté until soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.

3. Add the Vegetables:

Add the diced zucchini and mushrooms (if using) to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender. Season the mixture with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper for a little spice.

4. Incorporate the Tomatoes and Cream:

Stir in the drained diced tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes. Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream and sour cream, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes until everything is well incorporated and thickened.

5. Assemble the Casserole:

Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture to the prepared casserole dish. Top the mixture with 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese. Spread the cheese evenly over the top for a rich, cheesy finish.

6. Bake the Casserole:

Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly with a slight golden brown edge.

7. Garnish and Serve:

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for added color and flavor.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving):

  • Calories: 420
  • Fat: 35g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Carbs: 6g (Net Carbs: 4g)
  • Fiber: 2g

Serving Suggestions:

This keto hamburger casserole pairs well with simple sides like a green salad, roasted cauliflower, or sautéed spinach. For a full meal, you can serve it alongside keto-friendly bread or rolls.

Variations:

  • Add Bacon: For extra flavor and texture, add cooked, crumbled bacon to the beef mixture before baking.
  • Spice it Up: Increase the cayenne pepper or add hot sauce to the mixture if you enjoy a spicy kick.
  • Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses such as pepper jack, Monterey jack, or gouda to mix up the flavor profile.

Tips for Making the Best Keto Hamburger Casserole:

  • Drain Excess Fat: Depending on the fat content of your beef, you may need to drain off excess fat after browning. This will prevent the casserole from being too greasy.
  • Meal Prep: This casserole stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it a great option for meal prep. Simply reheat in the microwave or oven when ready to serve.

Conclusion:

This Keto Hamburger Casserole is a perfect weeknight dinner option that’s packed with flavor, low in carbs, and easy to prepare. Its cheesy, creamy texture and savory beef mixture will satisfy any craving while keeping you on track with your ketogenic diet. Ideal for meal prep or family dinners, this dish is a must-try for anyone following a low-carb lifestyle!