The Zesty Keto Italian Casserole is a delightful dish that combines bold Italian flavors with low-carb, keto-friendly ingredients. Perfect for those following a keto lifestyle or simply looking for a hearty, satisfying meal, this casserole brings together ground beef, Italian sausage, and fresh vegetables in a rich marinara sauce. The layers of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese add creaminess and depth, making every bite indulgent yet guilt-free.
What sets this casserole apart is its versatility. Zucchini and spinach provide a light and nutritious base, but you can easily swap them for other low-carb vegetables like cauliflower or eggplant to suit your taste. The sugar-free marinara ensures you stay within your carb limits, while the combination of Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes gives it a zesty kick. Whether you like it mild or spicy, the dish can be adjusted to your preferences with just a few tweaks.
This casserole isn’t just about flavor; it’s also incredibly practical. It can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator or freezer for those busy weeknights when you need a quick, wholesome meal. After baking, the cheese forms a golden, bubbly crust that makes the dish as visually appealing as it is delicious. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
The Zesty Keto Italian Casserole is a testament to how eating healthy doesn’t mean compromising on taste. It’s a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or potlucks and can be enjoyed by keto enthusiasts and non-keto eaters alike. Its rich, savory flavors and comforting textures make it a dish you’ll return to time and time again.
Zesty Keto Italian Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, as preferred)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups marinara sauce (sugar-free or keto-friendly)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook Meat: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage, cooking until browned. Season with Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Prepare Vegetables: Add zucchini and spinach to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened. Stir in the marinara sauce and mix well.
- Layer the Casserole:
- Spread half of the meat and vegetable mixture in the bottom of a greased casserole dish.
- Add dollops of ricotta cheese on top, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the ricotta.
- Layer the remaining meat mixture, followed by the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Bake: Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Tips
- Substitute zucchini with eggplant or cauliflower for variety.
- For a dairy-free version, use almond-based ricotta and shredded vegan cheese.
- Make ahead and freeze for an easy meal prep option.
Enjoy your zesty keto Italian casserole with a simple green salad or roasted veggies on the side!
