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Keto Crack Beef Casserole Meal Prep - Easy, Cheesy, and Ready for the Week

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds ground beef (80/20 works best)
  • 6 slices bacon, chopped
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced (optional; for strict keto, use half or skip)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups riced cauliflower (fresh or frozen, thawed and well-drained)
  • 1 cup broccoli florets, chopped small (optional but great for texture)
  • 1 cup full-fat sour cream
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning (store-bought or homemade, no sugar added)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste, especially if bacon and ranch are salty)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • 2 tablespoons chopped chives or green onions, for garnish
  • Olive oil or avocado oil, as needed

Method
 

  1. Preheat and prep: Heat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Crisp the bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crisp. Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate. Leave 1–2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pan.
  3. Cook the beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up, until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess grease if needed, but leave a bit for flavor.
  4. Sauté aromatics: Add onion (if using) and cook 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Add vegetables: Stir in riced cauliflower and chopped broccoli. Cook 3–4 minutes to drive off moisture. Season with smoked paprika, pepper, and a light pinch of salt.
  6. Make the creamy base: In a bowl, whisk together sour cream, cream cheese, heavy cream, and ranch seasoning until smooth.
  7. Combine: Reduce heat to low. Pour the creamy mixture over the beef and veggies. Stir until everything is coated and the cream cheese is fully melted. Taste and adjust salt.
  8. Layer and top: Transfer the mixture to the baking dish. Fold in half the cheddar and half the bacon. Smooth the top, then sprinkle with remaining cheddar and bacon.
  9. Bake: Bake 15–18 minutes, until bubbly and the cheese is melted with golden spots.
  10. Finish and rest: Let it rest 5–10 minutes to set. Sprinkle with chopped chives or green onions.
  11. Portion for meal prep: Divide into 4–6 airtight containers. Cool uncovered for 10–15 minutes before sealing to avoid condensation.