If you're on the keto train, you're gonna love these 10 best ground beef recipes! Imagine digging into a cheesy Easy Taco Pie or a savory Slow Cooker Keto Meatloaf that practically cooks itself. You can whip up Keto Meatballs for a quick dinner or try filling up some bell peppers for Keto Stuffed Peppers. How about some Zucchini Lasagna instead of pasta? The possibilities are endless! Mini Pepper Nachos are perfect for snacking, and who doesn't love a hearty Meatball Casserole? Trust me, you're gonna want to make these soon, and there's even more deliciousness ahead!
Main Points
- Taco-inspired dishes like Easy Taco Pie and Mini Pepper Nachos offer quick, flavorful meals with low-carb alternatives.
- Stuffed dishes, including Keto Stuffed Peppers and Stuffed Pepper Skillet, provide versatile filling options for nutritious meal prep.
- Keto Meatballs and Meatball Casserole are high-protein, low-carb recipes that can be easily frozen for future meals.
- Casseroles like Slow Cooker Keto Meatloaf and Zucchini Lasagna offer comfort food with reduced carbohydrates, perfect for family dinners.
- Side dishes like Mexican Cauliflower Rice complement meals and can be customized with additional ingredients for variety.
Easy Taco Pie
Easy Taco Pie is a fantastic way to enjoy a savory meal while sticking to a ketogenic lifestyle. This delicious dish combines the flavors of a classic taco with a creamy, cheesy texture, making it a hit for taco lovers.
It's perfect for weeknight dinners when you're short on time but still want a satisfying meal. With minimal prep and cooking time, you can have a hearty meal on the table in no time.
To make this Easy Taco Pie, you'll be using simple ingredients that come together quickly. The combination of ground beef, cream cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese creates a mouthwatering pie that's both filling and low in carbs.
You can easily customize the recipe with your favorite toppings to add a personal touch, ensuring that everyone at the table can enjoy it just the way they like.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
- 1/4 cup sliced olives (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: avocado, salsa, jalapeños
Cooking Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned; drain any excess fat.
Add the taco seasoning and cream cheese to the skillet, stirring until well combined and heated through. Transfer the mixture to a greased pie dish, spreading it out evenly.
Top with shredded cheddar cheese and any optional ingredients like diced tomatoes or olives. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or bell peppers to the ground beef while cooking.
If you're looking to make this dish even more keto-friendly, use a low-carb tortilla or almond flour crust as a base.
Don't be afraid to experiment with different toppings; fresh cilantro, sour cream, or even a sprinkle of lime juice can improve the general taste.
Remember to let the pie cool for a few minutes before serving, as it will hold its shape better and be easier to slice.
Slow Cooker Keto Meatloaf
If you're looking for a comforting and hearty dish that fits perfectly into a ketogenic lifestyle, the Slow Cooker Keto Meatloaf is an excellent choice. This delicious meatloaf combines the rich flavors of ground beef and crispy bacon, seasoned with a blend of spices to create a satisfying meal.
With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can set it in the slow cooker and let it cook for 6 to 8 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day.
This meatloaf isn't only low in carbs, with each serving containing around 4g of net carbs, but it's also versatile. You can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite ingredients, such as cheese or different spices, to suit your taste preferences.
Plus, it makes for great leftovers, which can be stored in the fridge or frozen for later meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 oz bacon, cooked and chopped
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup unsweetened ketchup
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped bacon, almond flour, Parmesan cheese, ketchup, eggs, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated. Form the mixture into a loaf shape and place it in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or until the meatloaf is cooked through and has an internal temperature of 160°F.
For the best results, consider lining the slow cooker with parchment paper for easy removal and cleanup.
Additionally, you can improve the flavor of your meatloaf by adding a glaze made from sugar-free ketchup or a mixture of mustard and mayonnaise on top during the last hour of cooking.
Don't forget to let the meatloaf rest for about 10 minutes before slicing to guarantee it holds its shape and moisture. Enjoy your delicious, keto-friendly meal!
Keto Meatballs
Keto meatballs are a fantastic option for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty and flavorful dish while adhering to a low-carb lifestyle. Made primarily with ground beef, these meatballs are naturally high in protein and free from carbohydrates, making them perfect for those on a ketogenic diet.
With the ability to customize them with various herbs and spices, you can create a unique flavor profile that suits your taste preferences. Whether served as a main course with a delicious sauce or as a finger food appetizer, keto meatballs can be a versatile addition to your meal rotation.
Preparing keto meatballs isn't only simple but also convenient, as they can be made in batches and frozen for later use. This makes them an excellent choice for meal prep and quick weeknight dinners.
When paired with keto-friendly accompaniments like zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice, these meatballs transform into a satisfying and filling meal that keeps the carb count low while maximizing flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for heat)
Instructions:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Parmesan cheese, almond flour, egg, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix the ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll the meat mixture into balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through and have a nice golden-brown color on the outside.
Extra Tips:
When preparing keto meatballs, consider experimenting with different herbs and spices to tailor the flavors to your liking. You can also try adding finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or onions for added moisture and flavor.
If you plan to freeze them, verify they're fully cooled before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Additionally, don't hesitate to double the recipe so you always have a healthy meal option ready to go!
Keto Stuffed Peppers
Keto stuffed peppers are a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy a low-carb meal while adhering to a ketogenic diet. The combination of flavorful ground beef, melted cheese, and fresh vegetables all encased in a vibrant bell pepper creates a dish that isn't only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients.
Perfect for meal prep, these stuffed peppers can be enjoyed throughout the week, making them a practical choice for busy individuals looking to stay on track with their dietary goals.
The beauty of keto stuffed peppers lies in their versatility. You can easily customize the filling to suit your taste by incorporating different spices, herbs, or types of cheese. Whether you prefer a classic Italian flavor profile with oregano and mozzarella or a spicy kick with jalapeños and pepper jack cheese, the options are endless.
With just a little preparation, you can have a hearty and flavorful meal that will keep you satisfied without the carbs.
Ingredients:
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup chopped spinach or zucchini
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Cooking Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Begin by slicing the tops off the bell peppers and removing the seeds and membranes.
In a skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant. Add the ground beef, cooking until browned. Stir in the diced tomatoes, chopped spinach or zucchini, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, and let it simmer for a few minutes.
Once the mixture is well combined, remove it from heat and stir in half of the shredded cheese. Stuff each hollowed-out bell pepper with the beef mixture, placing them upright in a baking dish. Top the peppers with the remaining cheese and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Extra Tips:
For ideal flavor, consider sautéing the vegetables before adding them to the beef mixture. You can also experiment with different types of ground meat, such as turkey or chicken, for a lighter option.
If you want to increase the fat content, add some cream cheese or sour cream into the mixture for a creamier texture. Finally, if you're making a larger batch, these stuffed peppers freeze well, allowing you to enjoy them later without compromising on taste or quality.
Zucchini Lasagna
Zucchini lasagna is a delicious and healthy twist on the classic Italian favorite, making it a perfect option for those following a keto diet. By substituting traditional pasta with thinly sliced zucchini, this dish notably reduces the carbohydrate content while still delivering all the comforting flavors of a hearty lasagna. The layers of seasoned ground beef, rich marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella come together to create a satisfying meal that's both nutritious and indulgent.
Making zucchini lasagna isn't only simple but also allows for customization based on your personal preferences. You can add various vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers, and adjust the spices to suit your taste. The key to achieving the best texture is to properly prepare the zucchini by salting it to draw out excess moisture, ensuring that your lasagna won't end up watery. With just a few steps, you can enjoy a flavorful and low-carb alternative that the whole family will love.
Ingredients:
- 3 medium zucchinis
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups marinara sauce (low-carb)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the zucchinis into thin strips and lay them on paper towels, sprinkling lightly with salt to draw out moisture. Let them sit for about 15 minutes, then pat dry.
In a skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat and brown the ground beef, seasoning with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Once cooked through, drain excess fat and mix in the marinara sauce.
In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with the egg and mix well. Now, in a baking dish, layer the zucchini strips, followed by half of the ground beef mixture, half of the ricotta mixture, and a layer of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with mozzarella on top. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Extra Tips:
To improve the flavor of your zucchini lasagna, consider adding chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley between the layers. If you want an even firmer texture, you can roast the zucchini slices in the oven for a few minutes before assembling the lasagna.
Additionally, letting the lasagna cool for about 10 minutes after baking will help the layers set and make it easier to slice. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days and taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Mexican Cauliflower Rice
Mexican Cauliflower Rice is a flavorful and nutritious alternative to traditional rice, making it a perfect choice for anyone following a keto diet. With just about 5 grams of carbohydrates per serving, this dish allows you to enjoy the comforting texture of rice without the carbs. The base of the dish is grated cauliflower, which is sautéed with a medley of spices, tomatoes, and bell peppers, providing a vibrant color and a burst of flavor in every bite. Not only does this dish satisfy your cravings, but it also packs a punch of vitamins C and K, along with antioxidants that contribute to your complete health.
Preparing Mexican Cauliflower Rice is quick and easy, taking only about 25 minutes from start to finish. This makes it a fantastic option for busy weeknight dinners or for meal prepping in advance. The recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize it to your taste by adding ingredients like ground beef, cheese, or avocado. Whether you're looking to create a hearty side dish or a main meal, Mexican Cauliflower Rice is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of cauliflower
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 1 cup cooked ground beef
- Optional: Avocado slices or shredded cheese for serving
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by removing the leaves and stem from the cauliflower, then grate it using a box grater or a food processor until it resembles rice.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and sauté the diced onion and bell pepper until they're tender, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Stir in the cauliflower rice, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cauliflower is tender and cooked through. If you're adding cooked ground beef, mix it in at this point and heat through. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Extra Tips:
For an even more flavorful dish, consider roasting the cauliflower rice in the oven for a few minutes before sautéing it, which can improve its texture and flavor.
Feel free to experiment with different spices or add in other vegetables like zucchini or corn for added nutrition. To keep the dish light, make sure not to overcook the cauliflower; it should be tender but still have a slight bite to it.
This recipe is also great for meal prep, as it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days, making it a convenient option for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Keto Italian Wedding Soup
Keto Italian Wedding Soup is a delightful and nutritious dish that perfectly aligns with the ketogenic diet, offering a comforting bowl of flavors while keeping your carb intake low. This soup is a wonderful blend of savory meatballs, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, making it not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients.
With its quick preparation time, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you want a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
The heart of this soup lies in its tender meatballs, which can be made using ground beef or turkey, both of which are excellent sources of protein. The addition of spinach and zucchini not only adds color and texture but also improves the nutritional profile of the dish without compromising its low-carb nature.
This Keto Italian Wedding Soup is sure to become a favorite in your household, providing warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups chicken or beef broth
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
Cooking Instructions:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef or turkey, egg, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, mixing until well combined.
Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. In a large pot, bring the chicken or beef broth to a boil, then add the meatballs and let them cook for about 10 minutes.
Once the meatballs are cooked through, add the chopped spinach, diced zucchini, oregano, and parsley, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Adjust seasoning if necessary and serve hot.
Extra Tips:
For improved flavor, consider sautéing the meatballs in a bit of olive oil before adding them to the broth. This will give them a nice browned exterior and deepen the overall taste of the soup.
Additionally, if you're looking to add more variety, you can include other low-carb vegetables like cauliflower or bell peppers. This soup can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a quick meal throughout the week, making it a convenient option for meal prep enthusiasts.
Mini Pepper Nachos
Mini Pepper Nachos are a delicious and inventive take on traditional nachos that cater perfectly to those following a ketogenic diet. By swapping out standard tortilla chips for colorful mini bell peppers, these nachos offer a satisfying crunch while keeping the carb count low. Each bite is packed with seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and a variety of toppings, making these nachos a flavorful and nutritious snack or appetizer option.
Preparing Mini Pepper Nachos is quick and easy, making them ideal for both casual gatherings and family meals. With only a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that isn't only visually appealing but also customizable to accommodate different tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you prefer spicy jalapeños or creamy avocado, these nachos can be tailored to suit your cravings.
Ingredients:
- 10-12 mini bell peppers
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- Jalapeños (sliced, optional)
- Sour cream (for topping)
- Avocado (for topping)
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the mini bell peppers in half lengthwise and remove the seeds.
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and stir in the taco seasoning, following the package instructions for adding water.
Arrange the pepper halves on a baking sheet, fill each with seasoned beef, and top with shredded cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and garnish with jalapeños, sour cream, avocado, and cilantro as desired.
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding sautéed onions or bell pepper strips to the seasoned beef mixture.
If you're looking for a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or black beans.
Additionally, feel free to experiment with different cheeses for varied flavor profiles, or add a drizzle of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Mini Pepper Nachos are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated for a quick snack.
Stuffed Pepper Skillet
The Stuffed Pepper Skillet is a delightful one-pan dish that takes the classic flavors of stuffed peppers and transforms them into a quick and easy meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe features ground beef sautéed with colorful bell peppers, infused with a mix of delicious seasonings. The use of riced cauliflower instead of traditional grains keeps it low-carb and keto-friendly, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal without the guilt.
This dish isn't only simple to prepare, but it's also highly versatile. You can customize it to your liking by adding different toppings such as shredded cheese, avocado, or fresh herbs. The combination of protein from the beef and vitamins from the bell peppers makes this skillet meal both satisfying and nutritious, ensuring you get a wholesome dinner on the table in just about 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups bell peppers, chopped (any color)
- 1 cup riced cauliflower
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, avocado, fresh herbs
Cooking Instructions:
In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium-high heat and add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent.
Next, add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks, until browned. Stir in the chopped bell peppers, riced cauliflower, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together, about 10-15 minutes. Serve hot, garnished with your choice of toppings.
Extra Tips:
Feel free to experiment with different types of ground meat such as turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
You can also add other vegetables like zucchini or spinach for extra nutrients and flavor. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding some red pepper flakes or jalapeños.
This dish is great for meal prepping; just store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for easy reheating throughout the week.
Keto Meatball Casserole
If you're on a low-carb diet and looking for a hearty meal that doesn't compromise on flavor, the Keto Meatball Casserole is the perfect solution. This comforting dish combines tender meatballs made from ground beef, mixed with melty cheese and a blend of spices, all baked together in a rich sauce. It's not only satisfying but also remarkably easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you still want something delicious on the table.
The beauty of this casserole lies in its versatility. You can customize it based on your taste preferences by adding low-carb vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers, which will improve the dish's nutritional profile without greatly increasing the carb count. With just 4-6g of net carbs per serving, this meal will keep your keto goals on track while delighting your taste buds.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella or cheddar)
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup low-carb marinara sauce
- Optional: 1 cup chopped spinach or zucchini
To prepare the Keto Meatball Casserole, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, half of the cheese, egg, almond flour, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1-2 inches in diameter, and place them in a greased casserole dish. Pour the low-carb marinara sauce over the meatballs, and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. If desired, add chopped spinach or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
When preparing this casserole, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or spices to suit your palate. Additionally, it's a great make-ahead meal; you can prepare the meatballs and sauce in advance and store them separately in the fridge until you're ready to bake.
If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge or frozen for up to 3 months, making it a convenient option for meal prep and easy dinners. Enjoy your delicious, keto-friendly meal!