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Keto Crockpot Crack Beef Casserole - Creamy, Cheesy, and Low-Carb Comfort

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 or 85/15 works best)
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (or 1/2 cup real bacon bits)
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning (about 2 tablespoons, use a low-carb version or homemade)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional but adds depth)
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup beef broth or water (to help it stay moist)
  • 2 cups low-carb vegetables (optional: chopped broccoli, cauliflower rice, or diced bell pepper)
  • Green onions or chives, sliced, for garnish
  • Cooking spray or a liner for the slow cooker

Method
 

  1. Brown the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and crumbled. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Drain excess fat to keep the casserole from getting greasy.
  2. Prep the slow cooker: Spray the crockpot insert with cooking spray or use a liner to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
  3. Add the base: Transfer the cooked beef to the slow cooker. Add the cream cheese cubes, sour cream, 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, and beef broth.
  4. Stir gently: Mix until everything is loosely combined. It doesn’t have to be perfectly smooth; it will melt together as it cooks.
  5. Add vegetables (optional): Fold in your low-carb veggies of choice. Broccoli florets or cauliflower rice work especially well and soak up the flavors.
  6. Slow cook: Cover and cook on Low for 3–4 hours or on High for 1.5–2 hours, until the mixture is hot, creamy, and bubbly around the edges.
  7. Finish with cheese and bacon: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar and the crumbled bacon over the top. Cover and cook for an additional 10–15 minutes, just until the cheese melts.
  8. Garnish and serve: Turn off the heat. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to thicken slightly. Top with sliced green onions and serve.