Keto Green Bean Hamburger Casserole – Low-Carb Comfort Food
Looking for a hearty, comforting meal that’s both delicious and keto-friendly? This keto green bean hamburger casserole is the perfect solution!
Packed with savory ground beef, a creamy cheese sauce, and a golden, bubbly topping, this dish delivers rich flavors without the carbs.
Unlike traditional casseroles that rely on pasta or potatoes, this low-carb version keeps things simple and satisfying with protein-packed beef and a cheesy, creamy base.
Plus, it’s easy to make, meal-prep friendly, and perfect for family dinners.
Whether you’re following a keto diet or just love cheesy comfort food, this keto green bean hamburger casserole will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation.
Best of all? It comes together in just one dish, making clean-up a breeze! Let’s dive into this flavorful, easy-to-make casserole that’s both wholesome and indulgent.
What is Keto Green Bean Hamburger Casserole?
Keto green bean hamburger casserole is a low-carb, high-fat dish that features browned ground beef, a creamy cheese sauce, and a baked, golden topping. This casserole skips the carbs found in traditional pasta bakes or potato-based dishes, making it ideal for ketogenic and low-carb diets.
Savory ground beef adds protein and depth.
A creamy cheese sauce ties everything together.
A crispy, cheesy topping gives it a satisfying crunch.
It’s an easy, one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or even a keto-friendly dinner party!
Ingredients You’ll Need to Make Keto Green Bean Hamburger Casserole
This recipe serves 6–8 people and is packed with simple, keto-friendly ingredients.
Main Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- ½ small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon ground mustard
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Topping:
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup crushed pork rinds or almond flour (for a crispy topping)
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Substitutions and Variations
- No pork rinds? Use crushed almonds or sunflower seeds for crunch.
- Need it dairy-free? Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and dairy-free cheese.
- Prefer a different protein? Substitute ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Want extra veggies? Stir in chopped spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for added nutrition.
- Spice it up! Add ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Keto Green Bean Hamburger Casserole
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic over medium heat until beef is browned.
- Drain excess grease and return beef to skillet.
- Stir in salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and ground mustard.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce
- Reduce heat to low and add cream cheese, stirring until melted.
- Mix in heavy cream and sour cream until smooth and creamy.
- Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
4. Assemble the Casserole
- Pour the beef mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese and ½ cup Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
5. Prepare the Crunchy Topping
- In a small bowl, mix crushed pork rinds (or almond flour) with melted butter.
- Sprinkle this mixture over the casserole.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese for a golden finish.
6. Bake
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let sit for 5 minutes before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the beef: Cook just until browned to keep it juicy.
- Not draining excess grease: Too much grease can make the casserole soggy.
- Skipping the seasoning: Ground beef needs plenty of flavor, so don’t skimp on the seasonings!
- Burning the topping: If the topping browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
Serving and Presentation Tips
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped chives for a pop of color.
- Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Use a cast iron skillet for a rustic, homestyle look.
Expert Tips
- Make ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate.
- Freeze it: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- Reheat leftovers properly: Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes or microwave individual portions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance. Add the topping just before baking.
Can I freeze Keto Ground Beef Casserole?
Absolutely! Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
What can I use instead of pork rinds for the topping?
You can use crushed almonds, sunflower seeds, or even keto breadcrumbs.
Is this casserole gluten-free?
Yes! This keto green bean hamburger casserole is naturally gluten-free.
Conclusion
This keto green bean hamburger casserole is the ultimate comfort food—rich, cheesy, and packed with savory flavors.
Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner, meal prep option, or keto-friendly dish, this casserole is sure to satisfy.
Give it a try and enjoy a low-carb meal that’s as delicious as it is satisfying!
Looking for a classic green bean casserole recipe? You can get that recipe here!
