Keto Layered Mexican Casserole

This Keto Layered Mexican Casserole is the ultimate comfort food with a spicy twist. It’s packed with layers of seasoned ground beef, gooey cheese, and vibrant veggies, all baked together to perfection. With its bold flavors and satisfying texture, this casserole will become a family favorite without breaking your low-carb lifestyle.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly: This casserole is made with keto-approved ingredients, making it a great option for anyone on a low-carb or keto diet.
• Flavorful Layers: The combination of seasoned ground beef, fresh veggies, and cheese creates a comforting and flavorful dish.
• One-Pan Wonder: With only one pan needed, this casserole is perfect for a simple, hassle-free dinner.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies, change up the protein, or adjust the spice level to suit your preferences.

My Personal Experience

I’ve made many casseroles, but this one really stands out! The layers of seasoned beef, melted cheese, and crunchy toppings make it feel like a hearty, indulgent meal, but it’s still totally keto-friendly. The best part is that it’s super easy to throw together and even easier to clean up afterward since everything cooks in one dish. Plus, it’s always a hit with both my keto and non-keto friends!

Tools You’ll Need to Make This Recipe a Success

• Large Skillet: I can’t make this casserole without my trusty large skillet. It’s perfect for browning the ground beef and sautéing those veggies. The even heat distribution ensures everything cooks perfectly, and it holds enough to make the whole batch!
• 9×13-inch Baking Dish: This baking dish is the absolute best size for this layered casserole. You want enough space to layer everything just right, and the 9×13-inch dish is perfect for it. Plus, it’s large enough for leftovers (if there are any!)
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: When I’m stirring up the beef mixture, I always reach for my sturdy wooden spoon or spatula. It’s gentle on my pans and makes mixing up all those tasty ingredients a breeze!
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For making sure all those seasonings are perfectly balanced, I use my trusty measuring cups and spoons. Accurate measurements are the key to great flavor, and these tools make it so easy!
• Oven: I rely on my oven to bake this casserole to perfection—golden, bubbly cheese on top and perfectly cooked underneath. A reliable oven is essential for dishes like this!

Ingredients & Substitutions

• Ground Beef: You can use ground turkey, chicken, or pork if you prefer a different protein. Just make sure it’s cooked through before layering.
• Low-Carb Tortillas: These provide the base for each layer. You can use almond flour or coconut flour tortillas for a more authentic texture.
• Cheese: A mix of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese works best for this casserole. Feel free to use other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack if you prefer.
• Sour Cream: Adds creaminess to the casserole. You can substitute with Greek yogurt if you want a tangier flavor.
• Salsa: Use a sugar-free salsa to keep the dish keto-friendly. You can also use homemade salsa for a fresh taste.
• Bell Peppers: A classic addition for flavor and color. You can use red, green, or yellow bell peppers depending on your preference.
• Onion: Sautéed onions add flavor and texture to the beef filling. If you prefer less onion, you can reduce the amount or use onion powder.
• Spices: Chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika create a warm, flavorful base for the beef mixture. Adjust the seasonings to your liking.

How to Make Keto Layered Mexican Casserole

Step 1: Cook the Beef

1. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add 1 chopped onion and 1 bell pepper to the beef, cooking until softened.
3. Stir in 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and salt and pepper to taste. Add 1/2 cup of salsa and cook for another 3-4 minutes.

Step 2: Layer the Casserole

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread a thin layer of the beef mixture on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Layer low-carb tortillas over the beef mixture, cutting them as necessary to fit the dish.
4. Spread half of the remaining beef mixture over the tortillas and top with 1 cup of shredded cheese. Repeat the layering process: tortillas, beef, and cheese.

Step 3: Bake the Casserole

1. Once all layers are assembled, top with any remaining cheese.
2. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 4: Serve

1. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. You can top it with sour cream, avocado slices, or fresh cilantro for added flavor.

Optional Additions

• Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the beef mixture for extra heat.
• Veggies: You can also add diced zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms to the layers for added texture and flavor.
• Toppings: Sour cream, guacamole, fresh cilantro, or diced tomatoes make great toppings for this casserole.

Serving Ideas

• Serve this casserole with a side of Mexican-style cauliflower rice or a simple avocado salad for a full meal.
• Pair with a refreshing iced tea or lime-infused water to balance the richness of the dish.
• For a crunchy side, serve with keto-friendly tortilla chips or crispy fried zucchini sticks.

Tips for Making the Perfect Keto Layered Mexican Casserole

1. Use Fresh Spices
   Freshly opened chili powder, cumin, and paprika add a much more vibrant flavor to the casserole. If you’re unsure about the freshness of your spices, it’s worth getting new ones!
2. Customize the Protein
   If you want a leaner version, swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. For a more indulgent taste, try adding chorizo for extra flavor.
3. Don’t Skip the Foil
   Covering the casserole with foil during the first part of baking helps it cook evenly and prevents the cheese from burning. Make sure to remove the foil during the last 5-10 minutes to get that golden, bubbly top.
4. Layering Tip
   Be sure to evenly spread the beef mixture and cheese between each layer of tortillas for a more uniform casserole. This ensures every bite has a little of everything!
5. Let It Cool
   Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps it set, making it easier to slice and serve without falling apart.
6. Sour Cream or Guac
   Serve with a dollop of sour cream or a scoop of guacamole for added creaminess and flavor!
7. Add More Veggies
   If you’re looking to pack in more veggies, consider adding zucchini or spinach to the layers.
8. Spice It Up
   For a spicier version, throw in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for an extra kick!

These tips will ensure your casserole comes out flavorful and perfectly layered!

Storage Recommendations

• Refrigerator: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
• Freezer: You can freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F for 40-45 minutes, or until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use regular tortillas instead of low-carb tortillas?
  Yes, but the recipe will no longer be considered low-carb. You can use corn or flour tortillas if preferred.
• Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
  Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, store it in the fridge, and bake it when ready to serve.
• Can I use a different protein?
  Yes! You can swap ground beef for turkey, chicken, or even pork for a different flavor profile.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

• Calories: 330
• Fat: 24g
• Protein: 25g
• Net Carbs: 6g
• Total Carbs: 8g

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