Description
This creamy and hearty casserole features tender ground beef, cauliflower rice, and melted cheese in a rich, flavorful sauce. A comforting low-carb twist on a classic favorite, ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, minced
- 3 ounces cream cheese
- ½ cup beef broth
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- ½ head cauliflower, riced
- ½ cup cheddar, shredded
- ½ cup mozzarella, shredded
- Chopped fresh parsley, for topping
- ½ teaspoon red chili pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a cast-iron skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Stir in the minced onion and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Steam the Cauliflower Rice: In a microwave-safe bowl, steam the riced cauliflower with ½ cup water, covered, for 5 minutes.
- Prepare the Creamy Sauce: Add cream cheese to the cooked beef mixture and stir until melted. Then add beef broth, heavy whipping cream, garlic powder, tomato paste, and salt/pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Combine Cauliflower Rice: Add the steamed cauliflower rice to the skillet and mix well. Continue cooking over medium-low heat for 5-7 minutes, allowing any excess liquid to absorb. If the mixture becomes too thick, add more beef broth to achieve your preferred consistency.
- Simmer and Melt the Cheese: Cover and let the casserole simmer on low for an additional 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar and mozzarella on top of the casserole, cover, and cook until the cheese is melted. For an extra crispy top, place the skillet under the broiler for a minute or two.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and optional chili flakes. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of chili flakes or add diced jalapeños to the beef mixture.
- This casserole pairs perfectly with a side of sautéed vegetables or a light salad.
- For extra flavor, you can add grated Parmesan cheese on top along with the other shredded cheeses.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Low-Carb, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 390 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
