Cheesy, beefy and nutritious. This casserole offers less than 5 grams of net carbs and 26 grams of protein. It’s also gluten-free and highly filling!

For those following a keto diet or simply looking to cut carbs, having a handful of go-to recipes is key to success. This keto zucchini beef casserole is a hearty, low-carb dish that is as satisfying as it is simple to make.

It’s packed with savory beef, creamy cheese, tender zucchini, and a wonderful mix of seasonings that tie this recipe together.

But what makes this recipe truly unique?

It’s a one-pan wonder! You can prepare and cook the meal in under 40 minutes! Talk about being quick.

And, since you are using only one pan, you won’t have a pile of dishes to clean afterward. Are you ready to treat your taste buds?

Ingredients and Substitutes

Ground beef (1 1/2 lb) – Swap for ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based ground meat for a lighter or vegetarian option.

Garlic powder (1 tbsp) – You can use fresh minced garlic for a stronger flavor or garlic flakes.

Onion powder (1 tbsp) – Replace with minced fresh onions (or shallots) or use onion flakes.

Italian seasoning (1 tbsp) – You can try a homemade version by mixing dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary. You can also use Herbes de Provence as an alternative.

Sea salt (1 tsp)

Black pepper (1/2 tsp)

Zucchini, cubed (2 medium) – You can also use yellow squash, eggplant, or diced bell peppers.

Cream cheese, softened (4 oz) –  Neufchâtel cheese or dairy-free cream cheese are great alternatives.  

Cheddar cheese, shredded and divided (½ cup) – I’ve also tried using Colby, Monterey Jack, or a plant-based alternative. However, make sure you check the carb content, especially for the plant-based options, to ensure they are keto-friendly.

Mozzarella cheese, shredded and divided (½ cup) – Substitute with provolone, fontina, or a dairy-free mozzarella.

GARNISH

Parsley, chopped

How to Make Keto Zucchini Beef Casserole

Step 1. Preheat your oven to 400F. Grab a 7×11-inch casserole dish and spray it with oil. Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a bit of oil, ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, sea salt, and black pepper.

Step 2. Cook the meat and make sure you break it apart. It should roughly take 5-7 minutes for the meat to brown up.

Step 3. Add the cubed zucchini.

Step 4. Give it a good stir and cook it for another minute.

Step 5. Add the cream cheese and let it melt (2-3 minutes). Give it a good stir to make sure it is fully incorporated.

Step 6. Remove the skillet from the heat and add the ¼ cup of cheddar cheese and ¼ cup of the mozzarella cheese.

Step 7. Mix everything thoroughly.

Step 8. Transfer the beef mixture to the casserole dish. Grab a spatula and level everything out.

Step 9. Add the rest of the cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese.

Step 10. Place in the oven and bake for 10 minutes or until the cheese melts. When you are ready to serve, garnish with parsley.

How To Modify This Recipe?

The beauty of this recipe is that it can be adaptable to any needs. While it is keto-friendly, you can make some changes to suit any dietary preference.

Here are some ways in which you can modify this recipe.

• Paleo-Friendly: Replace cream cheese and shredded cheese with coconut cream and nutritional yeast.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for a plant-based substitute like crumbled tofu or lentils (keep in mind that lentils are not keto-friendly).
• Spicy Twist: Add a dash of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.

What to Serve with This Keto Zucchini Beef Casserole

You can add complimentary sides to make it a complete meal or adjust it to any other dietary preference.

Here are some of the best keto-friendly alternatives:

• Classic Caesar salad
• Roasted vegetables
• Zucchini noodles
• Keto garlic bread
• Cauliflower rice

If you want to add some carbs to your meals for a more balanced meal, you can add the following:

• Mashed potatoes
• Pasta
• Brown rice
• Garlic bread

Storage Tips

The good news is that this casserole dish is just as delicious the next day. So, if you have any leftovers, here is how you can keep them fresh.

Place the leftovers in an airtight container. You can keep it there for 4-5 days.

If you want to keep it for longer, place it in individual portions in a freezer-safe container and keep it in the freezer for up to 2 months.

When you are ready to have it again, reheat it over at 350F. Place it in an oven-safe container and cook it for 10-15 minutes or until it’s all warmed through.

For those who are short on time, you can place it in the microwave. Just make sure you reheat it in one-minute intervals to avoid overcooking.

Want to make it feel fresh? Add a bit more cheese on top before reheating for a fresh-out-of-the-oven feel.

Other Low Carb Casseroles

• Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole
• Keto Chicken Cauliflower Casserole
• Keto Jalapeno Popper Casserole
• Keto Cheesy Philly Casserole