Low Carb Taco Casserole
If you’ve ever craved a hearty, flavorful dish that doesn’t compromise on your low-carb goals, the Low Carb Taco Casserole is your answer. Packed with a savory blend of spices, tender ground beef, and a healthy base of riced cauliflower, this recipe has become a staple in my kitchen. It’s the ultimate weeknight dinner that pleases everyone at the table—making it ideal for busy families or even as a cozy weekend meal when friends are over. Not to mention, the versatility of toppings allows everyone to customize their plate!
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Imagine digging into a delicious casserole that satisfies your taco cravings without the carbs! This Low Carb Taco Casserole is not just another dinner idea; it’s a game-changer. It’s quick to whip up—perfect for hectic weekdays—budget-friendly, and almost entirely customizable. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary needs.
"Wow! This casserole is amazing. My kids could not get enough of it, and I loved that it was low carb!"
Preparing Low Carb Taco Casserole
This dish comes together in just a few simple steps. Start by sautéing the cauliflower rice until it’s golden brown, which adds a lovely depth of flavor. Meanwhile, you’ll brown the ground beef with fresh vegetables and mix in taco seasoning for that authentic flavor we all adore. Layering is the fun part—just assemble, bake, and enjoy.
What You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll gather to make this tasty casserole:
- 10 ounces Earthbound Farm Frozen Organic Riced Cauliflower
- 2-3 Tablespoons Oil
- 2 Lbs Ground Beef
- 1 Small Red Bell Pepper – seeded and chopped
- 1 Small White Onion – chopped
- 4 Tablespoons Taco Seasoning
- 1 Tablespoon Tomato Paste
- 1/2 Cup Water
- 3 Cups Shredded Colby/Jack Cheese
- 1 Cup Sour Cream
- Chopped Lettuce (for topping)
- Chopped Tomato (for topping)
- Sliced Black Olives (for topping)
- Avocado/Guac (for topping)
- Cilantro (for topping)
Feel free to swap the riced cauliflower for any other low-carb veggie rice like broccoli if you prefer something different!
Directions to Follow
- Preheat your oven to 350ºF.
- In a pan, heat the oil over medium-high heat and pan-fry the riced cauliflower until it’s browned. Transfer this to a greased 2-quart casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
- In the same pan, brown the ground beef along with the chopped red bell pepper and onion. Drain any excess fat, if required.
- Stir in the taco seasoning, tomato paste, and water. Keep cooking on medium-high until the liquid absorbs.
- Layer the cooked beef mixture evenly over the cauliflower rice in the casserole dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top and bake for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and melted.
- Once out of the oven, spread the sour cream over the top and add some extra cheese and your preferred toppings.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
The beauty of this Low Carb Taco Casserole lies in its versatility. Serve it hot, topped with a refreshing salad of lettuce and diced tomatoes, or alongside creamy guacamole for that extra flair. Pair it with a lime wedge for a burst of freshness. You could even consider serving it on taco night, allowing your guests to dig in buffet-style with all the toppings!
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), let them cool completely before storing in an airtight container. Refrigerate promptly and enjoy within three days. For longer storage, this casserole freezes well; just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing it in a freezer-safe bag. When reheating, do so thoroughly in the oven or microwave.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- For an added depth of flavor, consider roasting the cauliflower rice before using it in the casserole.
- If you’re looking for a bit more kick, add some diced jalapeños to your meat mixture.
- Always make sure to drain excess fat from the ground beef to prevent it from becoming too greasy.
Creative Twists
Want to switch things up? Try using different meats like ground turkey or chicken for lighter options. You could also experiment with various cheese blends or add black beans to the beef mixture for extra protein. For an even bigger flavor explosion, substitute the traditional taco seasoning for a homemade blend!
Your Questions Answered
How long does it take to prepare this casserole?
From start to finish, you can have this dish ready in under an hour, including prep and baking time.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before and bake it when you’re ready to eat.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes! It stores well and can be easily reheated for a nutritious lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Can I use other vegetables in place of riced cauliflower?
Certainly! Broccoli rice or even zoodles (zucchini noodles) can be delicious substitutes.
This Low Carb Taco Casserole is not only a stunning centerpiece for your dinner table but also a dish you can feel great about serving to your family and friends. Enjoy!

Low Carb Taco Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 10 ounces Earthbound Farm Frozen Organic Riced Cauliflower
- 2-3 Tablespoons Oil For frying
- 2 lbs Ground Beef Use lean ground beef for less grease
- 1 small Red Bell Pepper Seeded and chopped
- 1 small White Onion Chopped
- 4 Tablespoons Taco Seasoning
- 1 Tablespoon Tomato Paste
- 1/2 Cup Water
- 3 Cups Shredded Colby/Jack Cheese
- 1 Cup Sour Cream
Toppings
- Chopped Lettuce For topping
- Chopped Tomato For topping
- Sliced Black Olives For topping
- Avocado/Guac For topping
- Cilantro For topping
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350ºF.
- In a pan, heat the oil over medium-high heat and pan-fry the riced cauliflower until it’s browned.
- Transfer the browned cauliflower to a greased 2-quart casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
- In the same pan, brown the ground beef along with the chopped red bell pepper and onion. Drain any excess fat if required.
- Stir in the taco seasoning, tomato paste, and water. Keep cooking on medium-high until the liquid absorbs.
- Layer the cooked beef mixture evenly over the cauliflower rice in the casserole dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top and bake for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and melted.
- Once out of the oven, spread the sour cream over the top and add some extra cheese and your preferred toppings.