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Keto Ground Beef Parmesan Bake - Comforting, Low-Carb Weeknight Favorite

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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 (680 g) ground beef (80–85% lean is ideal)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup low-carb marinara sauce (look for no-sugar-added)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup beef broth (or water)
  • 3 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese, divided
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella
  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
  • Optional mix-ins: 2 cups baby spinach, 1 cup sliced mushrooms, or 1/4 cup pesto

Method
 

  1. Preheat and prep: Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or similar casserole pan.
  2. Sauté aromatics: Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft and translucent, 3–4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Brown the beef: Add the ground beef and break it up with a spatula. Cook until browned with no pink remaining, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed, leaving about a tablespoon for flavor.
  4. Season and simmer: Stir in oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the tomato paste and cook 1 minute to caramelize. Pour in the marinara and beef broth, stir, and let it gently simmer 5–7 minutes to thicken slightly.
  5. Add creaminess: Cut the heat to low and mix in the cream cheese until fully melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning—add salt or a splash more broth if the sauce is too thick.
  6. Optional veggies: If using mushrooms or spinach, stir them into the sauce now. Cook 1–2 minutes until wilted or tender.
  7. Layer in the dish: Spread the beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle 1/4 cup parmesan over the top, then add the shredded mozzarella evenly.
  8. Finish with parmesan: Top with the remaining 1/4 cup parmesan for a golden, savory crust.
  9. Bake: Place on the center rack and bake 18–22 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned at the edges. For extra color, broil 1–2 minutes, watching closely.
  10. Rest and serve: Let the bake rest 5 minutes so it sets. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil. Serve hot with a crisp green salad or sautéed zucchini.