Ingredients
2 lbs ground beef (80/20 or 85/15)
1 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
1 small yellow onion, chopped
1 tbsp minced garlic
2 tbsp chili powder
1 tbsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
1/4 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
4 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
1/2 cup low-carb salsa or diced tomatoes with green chiles, drained
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican blend cheese
Optional toppings:
Sour cream
Sliced jalapeños
Fresh cilantro
Sliced black olives
Avocado
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
3. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease.
4. Stir in garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 more minute.
5. Reduce heat to low and add cream cheese and salsa. Stir until melted and combined into a creamy mixture.
6. Spread the beef mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
7. Top with shredded cheese, spreading it evenly across the surface.
8. Bake for 15–20 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Let cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.
10. Serve with your favorite toppings like sour cream, avocado, or jalapeños.
Notes
Make it spicier by adding cayenne or chopped jalapeños to the meat mixture.
Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and flavor.
This casserole is excellent for meal prep—store in the fridge up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
For a leaner version, substitute ground turkey or chicken.
Let the casserole rest before serving to help it hold its shape.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 120mg