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Keto Taco Casserole Tacos - A Low-Carb Twist With Big Flavor

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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 or 85/15)
  • 1 tablespoon avocado oil (or olive oil)
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
  • 2 cups riced cauliflower (fresh or frozen, thawed)
  • 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chiles, drained
  • 1/4 cup tomato paste
  • 1/2 cup beef broth (low-sodium)
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Mexican blend, or pepper jack)
  • 1/2 cup full-fat sour cream
  • 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning (see note below)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for topping)
  • Green onions, sliced (optional)
  • Romaine leaves or butter lettuce for taco “shells,” or low-carb tortillas
  • Optional toppings: diced avocado, sliced jalapeños, hot sauce, salsa, lime wedges

Method
 

  1. Preheat and prep: Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Sauté aromatics: Warm the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper, and cook 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds, until fragrant.
  3. Brown the beef: Add ground beef to the skillet. Break it up and cook until browned, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
  4. Season and simmer: Stir in taco seasoning, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add tomato paste, diced tomatoes with green chiles, and beef broth. Simmer 3–4 minutes to thicken slightly.
  5. Add cauliflower rice: Fold in the riced cauliflower and cook 2–3 minutes to absorb flavors. The mixture should be thick and saucy, not watery.
  6. Make the creamy layer: In a bowl, whisk together sour cream and cream cheese until smooth. If the cream cheese is firm, microwave it for 10–15 seconds to soften.
  7. Assemble the casserole: Spread the beef mixture in the baking dish. Dollop the sour cream mixture over the top and gently spread. Sprinkle evenly with shredded cheese.
  8. Bake: Bake uncovered for 15–18 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly with light golden spots.
  9. Finish and rest: Let the casserole rest 5 minutes to set. Top with cilantro and green onions if using.
  10. Serve as tacos: Spoon the hot casserole into romaine leaves, butter lettuce cups, or low-carb tortillas. Add avocado, jalapeños, salsa, and a squeeze of lime. Serve immediately.