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The Best Low Carb Taco Casserole Recipe for a Flavor-Packed Weeknight Dinner

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small zucchini, diced (optional for extra veggies)
  • 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chiles, drained (like Rotel)
  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade, low sugar)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup salsa (no sugar added)
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil)
  • Optional toppings: sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, green onions, shredded lettuce, lime wedges

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven. Set to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  • Brown the meat. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks, until browned and no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
  • Sauté the veggies. Add remaining oil, onion, bell pepper, and zucchini to the skillet. Cook 4–5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic for the last 30 seconds.
  • Season and simmer. Stir in taco seasoning, salt, pepper, drained tomatoes with chiles, and salsa. Simmer 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  • Make the creamy binder. In a bowl, whisk eggs and sour cream until smooth. This helps set the casserole without tortillas and keeps it moist.
  • Layer it up. Spread the meat mixture evenly in the baking dish. Pour the egg mixture over the top and gently swirl with a spatula to distribute. Sprinkle with 1½ cups shredded cheese.
  • Bake. Place in the oven for 18–22 minutes, until the edges are bubbling and the center is just set.
  • Finish with cheese. Add the remaining ½ cup cheese on top and bake 3–5 more minutes until melted and golden in spots.
  • Rest and top. Let it rest 5–10 minutes to set. Add your favorite toppings: avocado, cilantro, jalapeños, and a squeeze of lime.
  • Serve. Scoop generous portions and enjoy with a crisp salad or cauliflower rice.