Ground Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice

why make this recipe

This casserole is simple, filling, and low in carbs. It uses cauliflower rice instead of regular rice or pasta. You get a warm, cheesy meal with ground beef and familiar spices. It cooks fast and works for weeknights or meal prep.

introduction

This Ground Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice mixes browned beef, sautéed onion and garlic, and riced cauliflower. You add spices and top with melted cheese. The dish is easy to make, healthy, and family-friendly.

how to make Ground Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice

1. Preheat the oven and cook the aromatics.
2. Brown the ground beef and season it.
3. Stir in the cauliflower rice and tomatoes if you use them, then simmer a few minutes.
4. Put the mixture in a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly.
5. Let it cool slightly, then serve.

Follow the full Directions section below for exact steps and times.

Ingredients :

1 pound ground beef, 1 small onion, chopped, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1 small head of cauliflower, riced (or 4 cups cauliflower rice), 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella), 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 can diced tomatoes (optional)

Directions :

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened.
3. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
4. Stir in salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
5. Mix in cauliflower rice and diced tomatoes (if using), and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your wholesome dinner!

how to serve Ground Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice

Serve it hot from the oven. Add a simple green salad on the side or steamed vegetables. You can top each serving with fresh parsley or a spoon of sour cream if you like.

how to store Ground Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice

Cool the casserole to room temperature. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave single servings for 1-2 minutes.

tips to make Ground Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice

• Drain fat well after browning the beef to keep the casserole from getting greasy.
• Squeeze any extra water from store-bought cauliflower rice before adding.
• Use a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for a gooey top.
• Taste and adjust salt and pepper before baking.

variation (if any)

• Make it spicier: add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño.
• Change the cheese: try pepper jack or a blend of Mexican cheeses.
• Add vegetables: stir in chopped bell peppers or mushrooms when you sauté the onion.
• Make it saucier: add 1/2 cup tomato sauce or a splash of beef broth before baking.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen cauliflower rice?
A: Yes. Thaw and drain it well, then cook a few extra minutes to remove moisture.

Q: Can I make this ahead and freeze it?
A: Yes. Cool it, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating and baking.

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
A: Yes. Ground turkey works fine. Brown and season it the same way.

Q: Is this recipe low carb?
A: Yes. Using cauliflower rice keeps carbs low compared to regular rice or pasta.

Conclusion

For another low-carb ground beef and cauliflower casserole idea, see this related recipe for inspiration: Ground Beef Stroganoff Casserole – Kalyn’s Kitchen.

Ground Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice

This Ground Beef Casserole with Cauliflower Rice is a simple, healthy, and filling dish featuring browned beef, sautéed vegetables, and cheesy goodness, perfect for weeknights or meal prep.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef Can substitute with ground turkey
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 small head cauliflower, riced (or 4 cups cauliflower rice) Squeeze excess moisture if using store-bought
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella) Mix of cheeses recommended for gooey top
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 can diced tomatoes (optional) Can add for extra flavor

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened.
3. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
4. Stir in salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
5. Mix in cauliflower rice and diced tomatoes (if using), and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Serve hot with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. Add fresh parsley or a spoon of sour cream on top, if desired. Cool leftovers to room temperature and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.