KETO TACO CASSEROLE

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (or butter)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning, recipe below)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 cup salsa (sugar-free or homemade)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend cheese)
• 1/2 cup sour cream (for topping)
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (optional, for topping)
• 1/4 cup sliced green onions (optional, for garnish)
• 1/4 cup sliced olives (optional, for garnish)
• 1 cup cauliflower rice (optional, for base or to mix in)

Homemade Taco Seasoning (if you prefer):

• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Meat:
   Heat olive oil (or butter) in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant and soft. Add the ground beef (or turkey/chicken) to the skillet and cook, breaking it up as it cooks, until browned and fully cooked through, about 7-8 minutes.
3. Season the Meat:
   Add the taco seasoning (or homemade seasoning mix) to the meat along with 1/2 cup of water. Stir well to combine and let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes until the water has mostly evaporated.
4. Prepare the Casserole Mixture:
   Reduce the heat to low and stir in the salsa and heavy cream. Mix well until everything is combined and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed (add more salt, pepper, or spices). Remove from heat.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
   If using cauliflower rice, you can either cook it beforehand or mix it into the meat mixture. Transfer the meat mixture to a greased casserole dish (9×9 or similar size). Spread it out evenly.
6. Add the Cheese:
   Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend cheese) evenly over the top of the casserole.
7. Bake the Casserole:
   Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve:
   Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes. Top with a dollop of sour cream, diced tomatoes, sliced green onions, and sliced olives, if desired.

Tips:

• Cauliflower rice can be added for extra volume, or you can skip it for a more straightforward casserole.
• You can add chopped jalapeños to spice it up or mix in some chopped bell peppers for added veggies.
• Feel free to use other toppings like guacamole, avocado slices, or fresh cilantro for extra flavor.
• For a slightly different twist, you can layer in shredded zucchini or spinach before adding the cheese for added greens.

This Keto Taco Casserole is a great way to enjoy taco night while staying low-carb and full of flavor. Enjoy!