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Easy Cheesy Keto Taco Casserole Without Tortillas

keto taco casserole - featured image

A low-carb, cheesy taco casserole that skips the tortillas but keeps all the bold taco flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights, this keto-friendly dish is filling, flavorful, and quick to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp taco seasoning (chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, salt, pepper)
  • 2 cups cauliflower rice (about 10 oz), frozen or fresh
  • 1 small bell pepper, diced (optional)
  • 1 can diced green chilies, drained
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (about 6 oz)
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • A handful fresh cilantro, chopped
  • ½ cup sour cream (optional, for topping or mixing in)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and diced onion. Cook, stirring and breaking up the meat, for 6-8 minutes until browned and no pink remains. Drain excess fat if desired.
  3. Add minced garlic and taco seasoning to the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Stir in cauliflower rice and diced bell pepper. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until veggies soften and excess moisture evaporates.
  5. In a mixing bowl, soften cream cheese by stirring until smooth. Fold in diced green chilies and a pinch of salt.
  6. Spread half of the meat and veggie mixture evenly in a 9×9-inch baking dish. Dollop and spread half the cream cheese mixture over it. Sprinkle with half the shredded cheddar cheese.
  7. Repeat layers with remaining meat mixture, cream cheese mixture, and shredded cheddar cheese on top.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.
  9. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top. Serve with sour cream if desired.

Notes

Pre-cook cauliflower rice to avoid excess moisture and soggy casserole. Use room temperature cream cheese for smooth blending. Let casserole rest before serving for cleaner slices. Frozen cauliflower rice and a food processor for chopping peppers can save prep time.

Nutrition

Keywords: keto, low-carb, taco casserole, cheesy, ground beef, cauliflower rice, easy dinner, gluten-free