Are you craving a mouthwatering meal that's both incredibly delicious and diet-friendly? Look no further than this sensational Low Carb Tex-Mex Casserole that promises to revolutionize your dinner routine! Packed with protein, bursting with bold southwestern flavors, and ready in just about an hour, this recipe is your ticket to a satisfying meal that doesn't compromise on taste or nutrition. Whether you're following a low-carb lifestyle or simply want a quick, scrumptious dinner, this casserole is about to become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
- 1/4 cup taco seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or olive oil.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it into small crumbles. Cook for 6-8 minutes until no pink remains.
- Drain excess fat from the ground beef using a colander. Return the meat to the skillet.
- Add taco seasoning to the ground beef, stirring thoroughly to coat the meat evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Add drained and rinsed black beans, diced tomatoes, and diced bell peppers to the skillet. Mix well and cook for 3-4 minutes to combine flavors.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Stir to incorporate all ingredients.
- Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and slightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.
- Optional: Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or a dollop of sour cream before serving.
Tips
- Brown the Ground Beef Perfectly: Ensure you drain excess fat thoroughly to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.
- Customize Your Spice Level: Adjust the taco seasoning or add extra chili powder if you want more heat.
- Cheese Selection Matters: Use a blend of cheeses like cheddar and monterey jack for more complex flavor.
- Make it Ahead: This casserole can be prepared in advance and refrigerated before baking, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Optional Protein Swap: Try ground turkey or chicken for a different protein variation.
- Extra Veggie Boost: Feel free to add additional low-carb vegetables like zucchini or spinach for more nutrition.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or a dollop of sour cream can elevate the final presentation and flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 75mg