Cheesy Low-Carb Taco Casserole Recipe
If you’re on the lookout for the ultimate comfort food that doesn’t wreck your carb count, this Cheesy Low-Carb Taco Casserole Recipe is about to become your new weeknight hero. This dish combines everything you love about classic taco night—flavorful spices, hearty beef, creamy layers, and a cheesy crown—into one oven-baked masterpiece. It’s ideal for busy evenings or potluck gatherings, and even better, it’s versatile enough to please everyone at the table, whether they’re counting carbs or just chasing bold flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Get ready to fall in love with how simple and purposeful the ingredients are for this casserole! Each one brings its own magic, creating a dish that’s irresistibly cheesy, perfectly spiced, and packed with hearty goodness—without the carb-heavy fillers you’d find in a typical taco bake.
- Ground beef (1 ½ pounds): The robust and juicy foundation for our casserole—go for 80/20 for the best flavor, or substitute with turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Onion (1 small, diced): Adds sweetness and depth to every bite as it cooks down with the beef.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Lends that beloved aromatic punch that enhances all the taco spices.
- Taco seasoning (2 tablespoons, low-carb): Brings classic Tex-Mex flavor; use your favorite blend or make your own to control the heat.
- Tomato paste (1 tablespoon): Deepens the umami and helps thicken the savory sauce.
- Water (½ cup): Loosens the mixture just enough, making it perfectly creamy when baked.
- Diced tomatoes with green chiles (1 can, 10 oz, drained): The secret ingredient for zesty flavor and a pop of color!
- Riced cauliflower (1 cup, fresh or frozen): Sneaks in extra veggies, absorbs flavor, and replaces higher-carb fillers.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Swirls in creaminess and helps create that lovely, slightly tangy base.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): Melts into gooey perfection across the top and body of the casserole.
- Shredded Monterey Jack cheese (½ cup): Adds meltiness and a gentle, milky contrast to the cheddar.
- Salt and pepper to taste: These basics let all the other flavors shine—taste and adjust as needed!
- Optional toppings (sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, diced avocado, jalapeños): Add freshness, creaminess, or a kick—make it your own with your favorite toppings!
How to Make Cheesy Low-Carb Taco Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little butter or nonstick spray—this step ensures easy cleanup and perfect slices when serving up the Cheesy Low-Carb Taco Casserole Recipe.
Step 2: Brown the Beef with Onion and Garlic
Heat a large skillet over medium and add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Stir and break up the beef as it cooks until it’s browned and the onion turns soft and translucent. Once everything is nicely cooked, drain off any excess fat to keep things light.
Step 3: Spice and Simmer
Return the skillet to the heat and stir in your taco seasoning, tomato paste, and water. Let everything bubble together for 2 to 3 minutes—the flavors will meld and the mixture should thicken to a perfect saucy consistency. The aroma will get you excited for what’s to come!
Step 4: Add Tomatoes, Chiles, and Cauliflower
Add the drained diced tomatoes with green chiles and riced cauliflower to the skillet. Stir gently to evenly combine; the cauliflower will soak up all those savory juices, keeping every bite low-carb and vegetable-packed.
Step 5: Creamy Touch
Remove your skillet from the heat and fold in the sour cream until it’s fully incorporated. This is the step where your casserole gets its creamy tang and comforting body—don’t rush, just stir until it looks velvety.
Step 6: Assemble and Top with Cheese
Transfer the beef mixture evenly into your greased baking dish. Now, shower the top generously with shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. This is where the Cheesy Low-Carb Taco Casserole Recipe earns its name—the double cheese combo means extra gooey, irresistible goodness.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Slide the casserole into your hot oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and starting to turn golden. You’ll know it’s ready when the kitchen smells like taco heaven and the top is beautifully browned.
Step 8: Rest and Top
Let the casserole settle for 5 minutes before slicing. This makes serving easier—it’ll hold together beautifully! Finish by sprinkling on your choice of toppings like green onions, cilantro, creamy avocado, or spicy jalapeños. Each topping adds color and extra flavor to round out the Cheesy Low-Carb Taco Casserole Recipe.
How to Serve Cheesy Low-Carb Taco Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
The right garnish makes every bite even more exciting. Freshly chopped cilantro, thin-sliced green onions, ripe avocado cubes, or a handful of pickled jalapeños truly bring out the Tex-Mex personality of this dish. Don’t forget a dollop of extra sour cream for that rich finish!
Side Dishes
While this casserole is a meal on its own, pairing it with a light side can create a complete Tex-Mex experience. Try a crisp, lime-dressed salad, roasted vegetables (like zucchini or bell peppers), or a bowl of guacamole with low-carb chips. Cauliflower rice or a scoop of refried black soybeans also make great partners.
Creative Ways to Present
This Cheesy Low-Carb Taco Casserole Recipe shines at weeknight dinners but also steals the show at gatherings. For parties, try serving it in mini ramekins for adorable, personal portions. Or, use leftovers wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves for taco “boats”—fun, hand-held, and fresh!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your casserole tightly with foil or plastic wrap, or transfer leftovers to an airtight container. It keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to four days without losing any of that bold, cheesy flavor.
Freezing
Want to save some for later? This dish freezes exceptionally well. Just let it cool completely, portion as needed, and wrap tightly. Freeze for up to two months, then thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy another batch of Cheesy Low-Carb Taco Casserole Recipe.
Reheating
For best results, reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil, until warmed through (about 20 minutes). You can also use the microwave for single portions—just don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh toppings after heating to bring back that just-baked freshness!
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken both work great for a leaner version, and you could even try ground pork or a plant-based meat substitute to mix things up.
Is this Cheesy Low-Carb Taco Casserole Recipe keto-friendly?
Yes! With minimal carbs from the riced cauliflower and no tortillas, this dish is an excellent centerpiece for any keto meal plan. Just check your taco seasoning for added sugars if you’re keeping it strict.
Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
If you need to skip dairy, try a plant-based sour cream and cheese alternative. The results are still creamy and flavorful, so everyone can enjoy this recipe!
How spicy is the casserole?
The base recipe is mild to medium, but you control the heat with your taco seasoning and optional toppings. Add extra jalapeños or hot sauce if you’re after some real fire!
Can I prep this Cheesy Low-Carb Taco Casserole Recipe ahead?
Definitely. Assemble everything up to a day before, refrigerate covered, and just bake when ready to serve. You’ll love having dinner practically finished before you even start!
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about sitting down to a bubbling, cheesy casserole that checks all your comfort food boxes while still keeping things healthy and low-carb. Give this Cheesy Low-Carb Taco Casserole Recipe a try, and don’t be surprised if it takes over your dinner rotation—it just has a way of making everyone’s day a bit more delicious!
Print
Cheesy Low-Carb Taco Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Cheesy Low-Carb Taco Casserole Recipe is a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or meal prep. Packed with seasoned ground beef, creamy sour cream, and two types of melted cheese, it’s a Tex-Mex delight with a low-carb twist.
Ingredients
Ground Beef Mixture:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons low-carb taco seasoning
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- ½ cup water
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles, drained
- 1 cup riced cauliflower, fresh or frozen
- Salt and pepper to taste
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Optional toppings: sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, diced avocado, jalapeños
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in taco seasoning, tomato paste, and water. Cook until thickened.
- Combine Ingredients: Add diced tomatoes, riced cauliflower, and sour cream. Mix well.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread beef mixture in baking dish. Top with cheeses.
- Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Add desired toppings.
Notes
- For a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead and refrigerated until ready to bake.
- Great for meal prep and reheats well.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
