Hey y'all! If you're searching for a dinner that's cheesy, hearty, and full of zesty flavor—but still friendly to your low-carb lifestyle—this Taco Casserole Recipe – Low Carb Dinner is about to become your new favorite. With layers of seasoned beef, melty cheese, and fresh toppings, it's perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or meal-prep nights. Let's get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Taco Casserole Recipe – Low Carb Dinner
- Quick and easy to prepare, making busy weeknights stress-free.
- Packed with bold, savory taco flavors in every bite.
- Low in carbs, but super satisfying and filling.
- Customizable for any dietary needs or preferences.
- Perfect for leftovers and meal prepping ahead.
Ingredients for Taco Casserole Recipe – Low Carb Dinner
- 1 lb ground beef (85/15 or leaner)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small bell pepper, diced
- 2 tablespoon taco seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
- ½ cup tomato sauce (no sugar added)
- ¼ cup water
- 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies (optional for heat)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sliced green onions, diced tomatoes, sliced olives, avocado, jalapeños (all optional)
Directions: How to Make Taco Casserole Recipe – Low Carb Dinner
Step 1: Prep and Preheat
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x9-inch casserole dish or similar-sized baking pan with nonstick spray.
Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it starts to brown, about 5 minutes. Add the diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper, and sauté for another 3-4 minutes until softened. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 3: Season and Simmer
Sprinkle in the taco seasoning, pour in tomato sauce, water, and diced green chilies (if using). Stir well to coat everything, then let simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Assemble the Taco Casserole
Transfer the beef mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Spread sour cream evenly over the top, then sprinkle with shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
Step 5: Bake to Melty Perfection
Bake uncovered for 18-20 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and starting to turn golden.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Remove from oven, let cool for 5 minutes, then top with your favorite fresh toppings and a sprinkle of cilantro. Slice and serve warm!
Notes & Helpful Cooking Tips
- For a deeper flavor, use proper browning techniques when cooking the beef.
- Drain excess fat from the beef to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.
- You can swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Variations of Taco Casserole Recipe – Low Carb Dinner
- Chicken Taco Casserole: Use shredded cooked chicken instead of beef for a leaner meal.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap beef for a mix of sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and riced cauliflower.
- Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne to the beef mixture for extra heat.
Required Equipment for Taco Casserole Recipe – Low Carb Dinner
- Large skillet
- 9x9-inch casserole dish
- Mixing spoon
- Chopping board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Storage Instructions and Shelf Life
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze the cooled casserole (without fresh toppings) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations
- Serve with a simple green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette for crunch and freshness.
- Enjoy alongside cauliflower rice or roasted veggies to keep it low carb.
- Top off each serving with fresh avocado slices, salsa, or a squeeze of lime for brightness.
Pro Tips for Taco Casserole Recipe – Low Carb Dinner
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing to help it set for easier serving.
- Use freshly grated cheese for optimal melt and flavor—pre-shredded can contain anti-caking agents.
- Check out this low-carb meal guide for more inspiration on healthy sides and swaps.
FAQ: Taco Casserole Recipe – Low Carb Dinner
- Can I make this Taco Casserole Recipe – Low Carb Dinner ahead of time?
- Absolutely! Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.
- What are the best low-carb toppings for taco casserole?
- Try diced avocado, fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, shredded lettuce, or a dollop of sour cream.
- Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
- Yes, simply use a 9x13-inch baking dish and double all the ingredients. Bake for an extra 5-10 minutes until bubbly and heated through.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup diced tomatoes
- ½ cup chopped green bell pepper
- ¼ cup chopped onion
- 2 tablespoon taco seasoning (low sodium)
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup sliced black olives
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions
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1Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
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2In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with chopped onion and green bell pepper until the beef is browned and vegetables are tender. Drain excess fat.
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3Stir in taco seasoning and diced tomatoes. Cook for 2-3 minutes until well combined.
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4Spread the beef mixture evenly in a greased 9x13-inch casserole dish. Top with sour cream, then sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
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5Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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6Remove from oven and garnish with sliced black olives and chopped cilantro before serving.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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