Keto Ground Beef & Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole
At Ketori-La, we know comfort food doesn’t have to break your keto streak. This Keto Ground Beef & Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole is the perfect blend of savory, cheesy goodness and hearty ground beef, all wrapped up in a low-carb package. Whether you’re meal-prepping or looking for a cozy dinner, this casserole will quickly become a go-to favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef (80/20 for that ideal fat-protein ratio)
– 1 small head of cauliflower, cut into florets (cauliflower is our low-carb superstar)
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (the richer the better)
– 1/4 cup cream cheese (adds that creamy, indulgent texture)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream (to keep it extra rich and keto-approved)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil (or butter if you want extra flavor)
– 2 garlic cloves, minced (because garlic makes everything better)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for a subtle smokiness that elevates the dish)
– Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a medium-sized baking dish with olive oil or butter.
2. Cook the Cauliflower
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and add the cauliflower florets. Boil for about 5-7 minutes until just tender but not too soft. Drain and set aside.
Pro Tip: For a deeper flavor, you can roast the cauliflower instead of boiling. Just toss it with a little olive oil and roast in the oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until golden.
3. Cook the Ground Beef
While the cauliflower is cooking, heat a skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, breaking the beef apart with a spatula, until fully browned. Once cooked, remove from heat and drain excess fat if necessary.
Substitution Tip: You can use ground turkey or pork if you’re looking for a different flavor, but keep in mind that it may adjust the macros slightly.
4. Prepare the Cheese Sauce
In a saucepan over low heat, add the cream cheese, heavy cream, and minced garlic. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth. Once combined, stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Continue to stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
Pro Tip: Want a stronger cheese flavor? Try adding some grated Parmesan or a bit of mozzarella into the sauce.
5. Assemble the Casserole
In your prepared baking dish, combine the cooked cauliflower and ground beef. Pour the cheese sauce over the top, making sure everything is evenly coated. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top for that golden, bubbly finish.
6. Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is bubbling. If you like an extra crispy top, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes, but keep a close eye on it!
Optional Add-Ins: For added texture, you can mix in chopped mushrooms or even some crispy bacon bits.
7. Serve & Enjoy
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and dig into this cheesy, comforting keto dish that will keep you satisfied for hours. Bon appétit, from your friends at Ketori-La!
Macros (Approximate per serving):
– Servings: 4
– Calories: 510
– Total Carbs: 8g
– Fiber: 3g
– Net Carbs: 5g
– Protein: 28g
– Fat: 42g
At Ketori-La, we believe comfort food can be keto-friendly and downright delicious. This Keto Ground Beef & Cheesy Cauliflower Casserole checks all the boxes with its creamy, cheesy goodness and low-carb ingredients that fuel your keto journey without compromise. Enjoy every rich, savory bite!
