🥑 Keto Walking Taco Casserole Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or 85/15)
  • 1 packet of low-carb taco seasoning mix (or homemade with 1 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp paprika, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, salt, and pepper)
  • 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (Rotel), undrained (look for no-sugar-added versions)
  • 1 can (15 oz) black soybeans, drained and rinsed (or omit for lower carbs)
  • 1 cup cauliflower rice, cooked and drained (to replace corn)
  • 3 cups pork rinds or low-carb tortilla chips, crushed (to replace corn chips)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (full-fat)
  • 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
  • 1 large tomato, chopped (optional, reduces carbs)
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce

Instructions

  1. Cook the Ground Beef:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat. Add the low-carb taco seasoning mix, diced tomatoes with green chilies, black soybeans (if using), and cauliflower rice. Stir to combine and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes.
  2. Assemble the Casserole:
    • In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a layer of crushed pork rinds or low-carb tortilla chips on the bottom. Spoon the beef mixture evenly over the chips.
    • Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
  3. Bake the Casserole:
    • Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  4. Add Toppings and Serve:
    • Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly.
    • Spread the sour cream over the top of the casserole, then sprinkle with sliced black olives, chopped green onions, chopped cilantro, chopped tomato, and shredded lettuce.
  5. Serve:
    • Scoop portions of the Keto Walking Taco Casserole onto plates, making sure to include all the layers.
    • Enjoy your Keto Walking Taco Casserole with extra sour cream, salsa, or guacamole on the side!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate for 6 servings)

  • Calories: 370 kcal
  • Total Fat: 28 g
    • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg
  • Sodium: 700 mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 7 g
    • Dietary Fiber: 3 g
    • Net Carbohydrates: 4 g
  • Protein: 22 g

Tips for Keto-Friendly Cooking:

  • Choose High-Fat, Low-Carb Ingredients: Opt for full-fat versions of sour cream and cheese for added fat content.
  • Add Avocado: Slices of avocado can add healthy fats and a creamy texture.
  • Homemade Taco Seasoning: Making your own taco seasoning ensures there are no added sugars or starches, which can be found in store-bought mixes.
  • Use Pork Rinds or Low-Carb Tortilla Chips: These provide a crunchy texture similar to corn chips but with zero carbs.
  • Customize the Veggies: Tomatoes and black olives can add carbs; reduce the quantity or replace with more lettuce or avocado for fewer carbs.

Benefits of This Keto Version:

  • Low-Carb and High-Fat: Perfect for keeping your body in ketosis, which burns fat for energy.
  • Rich in Protein: Ground beef and cheese provide a good amount of protein to keep you feeling full.
  • Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in less than 40 minutes, making it a great option for busy weeknights or quick meal prep.
  • Highly Customizable: You can adjust the toppings and ingredients based on your carb goals or dietary preferences.
  • Tasty and Satisfying: All the flavors of a classic taco in a comforting casserole form, without the carbs!

Enjoy this keto-friendly take on a classic Walking Taco Casserole! 🌮🥑