15 Healthy Keto Ground Beef Recipes

Keto Ground Beef Recipes are a fantastic way to enjoy delicious, protein-rich meals while staying low-carb. Ground beef is a staple ingredient in the ketogenic diet due to its high protein content, healthy fats, and versatility in creating satisfying dishes. Whether you’re craving a quick skillet meal, a comforting casserole, or a hearty soup, ground beef can be transformed into a variety of flavorful, keto-friendly recipes.

Keto Ground Beef Recipes

1. Keto Cheeseburger Casserole

Description

This Keto Cheeseburger Casserole is a comforting, cheesy, and satisfying dish that delivers all the classic burger flavors without the carbs. Perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner, this casserole is loaded with seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, and a hint of mustard for that authentic cheeseburger taste.

Ingredients

For the casserole:

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tbsp yellow mustard

• ½ cup sugar-free ketchup

• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

• ¼ cup cream cheese

• ¼ cup heavy cream

• 2 large eggs

For topping (optional):

• ¼ cup pickles, chopped

• 1 tbsp sesame seeds

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.

2. Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.

3. Add onions and garlic, cooking until soft. Stir in salt, pepper, paprika, mustard, and ketchup. Simmer for 2 minutes.

4. Spread beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.

5. Whisk together eggs, heavy cream, and cream cheese until smooth. Pour over beef mixture.

6. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbly.

7. Garnish with pickles and sesame seeds if desired. Serve warm.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving) (Serves 6)

• Calories: ~350

• Protein: 24g

• Fat: 28g

• Carbs: 4g

• Fiber: 0.5g

• Net Carbs: 3.5g

Enjoy this Keto Cheeseburger Casserole as a delicious, low-carb alternative to your favorite fast-food burger!

2. One-Pan Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Description

This One-Pan Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a quick, flavorful, and keto-friendly dish that comes together in under 30 minutes. Packed with tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a savory garlic-ginger sauce, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights. Serve it as is or over cauliflower rice for a satisfying low-carb dinner.

Ingredients

For the stir-fry:

• 1 lb ground beef

• 3 cups broccoli florets

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated

• 1 tbsp avocado oil (or olive oil)

• ¼ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

For the sauce:

• ¼ cup coconut aminos (or low-sodium soy sauce)

• 1 tbsp rice vinegar

• 1 tbsp sesame oil

• ½ tsp xanthan gum (for thickening, optional)

• ½ tsp sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned. Drain excess grease if necessary.

2. Add garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper to the beef, stirring for about 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Toss in broccoli florets and cook for another 3–4 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.

4. Prepare the sauce by whisking together coconut aminos, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and xanthan gum (if using).

5. Pour the sauce over the beef and broccoli, stirring to coat everything evenly. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens.

6. Garnish with sesame seeds and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving) (Serves 4)

• Calories: ~290

• Protein: 22g

• Fat: 20g

• Carbs: 7g

• Fiber: 3g

• Net Carbs: 4g

This One-Pan Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry is an easy, nutritious, and delicious keto meal that will keep you full and energized.

3. Keto Taco Skillet

Description

This Keto Taco Skillet is a one-pan meal packed with bold Mexican flavors, seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and fresh toppings. It’s a quick, low-carb alternative to traditional tacos—no tortillas needed! Serve it as is, over cauliflower rice, or in a lettuce wrap for a delicious, keto-friendly dinner.

Ingredients

For the skillet:

• 1 lb ground beef

• ½ small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tbsp taco seasoning (sugar-free)

• ½ cup diced tomatoes (or Rotel)

• ¼ cup tomato paste

• ½ cup beef broth

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

For toppings (optional):

• ½ avocado, diced

• ¼ cup sour cream

• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

• ¼ cup jalapeños, sliced

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook until soft, about 2 minutes.

2. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.

3. Stir in garlic, salt, pepper, and taco seasoning; cook for another minute until fragrant.

4. Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth, stirring well. Simmer for 5 minutes until the mixture thickens.

5. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the skillet and cover with a lid. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the cheese is melted.

6. Remove from heat and top with avocado, sour cream, cilantro, and jalapeños if desired. Serve hot!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving) (Serves 4)

• Calories: ~350

• Protein: 25g

• Fat: 26g

• Carbs: 6g

• Fiber: 2g

• Net Carbs: 4g

This Keto Taco Skillet is an easy, cheesy, and satisfying meal that brings all the taco goodness without the carbs!

4. Hearty Keto Beef Chili

Description

This Hearty Keto Beef Chili is a rich, flavorful, and comforting dish that delivers all the warmth of classic chili—without the beans! Packed with seasoned ground beef, tomatoes, and bold spices, this low-carb version is perfect for meal prep, game nights, or cozy dinners. Serve it with shredded cheese, sour cream, or avocado for extra flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef

• ½ small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp chili powder

• 1 tsp cumin

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp oregano

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for spice)

• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes

• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste

• 1 cup beef broth

• ½ cup diced bell peppers (red or green)

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• ½ tsp xanthan gum (optional for thickening)

For toppings (optional):

• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

• ¼ cup sour cream

• ¼ cup diced avocado

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until soft, about 3 minutes.

2. Add ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks, until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.

3. Stir in garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, and bell peppers, stirring well. Bring to a simmer.

5. Cover and simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally. If a thicker consistency is desired, add xanthan gum and stir.

6. Stir in apple cider vinegar and let the chili cook for another 5 minutes.

7. Serve hot with shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, or cilantro on top.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving) (Serves 6)

• Calories: ~320

• Protein: 24g

• Fat: 22g

• Carbs: 7g

• Fiber: 2g

• Net Carbs: 5g

This Hearty Keto Beef Chili is a filling, satisfying dish that’s perfect for chilly nights or meal prepping. Enjoy!

5. Creamy Keto Beef and Mushroom Soup

Description

This Creamy Keto Beef and Mushroom Soup is a rich, velvety dish that combines ground beef, earthy mushrooms, and a luscious, low-carb creamy broth. It’s packed with protein and healthy fats, making it a perfect comfort meal for chilly days. This one-pot recipe is easy to make and great for meal prep!

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 tbsp olive oil (or butter)

• ½ small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced (white or cremini)

• 4 cups beef broth

• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (sugar-free)

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp dried thyme

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• ½ cup heavy cream

• ½ cup cream cheese, softened

• ½ tsp xanthan gum (optional for thickening)

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and cook until soft, about 2–3 minutes.

2. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.

3. Stir in garlic, mushrooms, salt, pepper, thyme, and smoked paprika. Cook for another 5 minutes until mushrooms soften.

4. Pour in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, bringing the soup to a simmer. Let it cook for 10 minutes.

5. Reduce heat to low and stir in cream cheese until melted and fully incorporated.

6. Add heavy cream, stirring well. If a thicker consistency is desired, sprinkle xanthan gum and mix until combined.

7. Simmer for another 5 minutes, then remove from heat.

8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving) (Serves 6)

• Calories: ~320

• Protein: 22g

• Fat: 25g

• Carbs: 5g

• Fiber: 1g

• Net Carbs: 4g

This Creamy Keto Beef and Mushroom Soup is a hearty, satisfying dish with deep, savory flavors. Serve it with keto-friendly bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal!

6. Italian-Style Keto Meatball Soup

Description

This Italian-Style Keto Meatball Soup is a warm, comforting dish packed with tender meatballs, rich tomato broth, and aromatic Italian herbs. It’s a low-carb twist on traditional meatball soup, perfect for meal prep or a cozy dinner. Enjoy it with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor!

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 egg

• 2 tbsp almond flour

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

For the Soup:

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• ½ small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 4 cups beef broth

• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• 2 cups fresh spinach or kale

• ¼ cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamy version)

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatballs: In a bowl, mix ground beef, Parmesan, egg, almond flour, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Form small meatballs (about 1 inch in size).

2. Cook the Meatballs: Heat a large pot over medium heat with olive oil. Brown the meatballs on all sides (about 5 minutes), then remove them and set aside.

3. Make the Soup Base: In the same pot, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant (2–3 minutes).

4. Add the broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and seasonings. Stir well and bring to a simmer.

5. Return the meatballs to the pot and let the soup simmer for 15–20 minutes until the meatballs are fully cooked.

6. Stir in spinach or kale and cook for another 2 minutes until wilted. For a creamy version, stir in heavy cream before serving.

7. Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving) (Serves 6)

• Calories: ~320

• Protein: 25g

• Fat: 22g

• Carbs: 6g

• Fiber: 2g

• Net Carbs: 4g

This Italian-Style Keto Meatball Soup is packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for a low-carb meal!

7. Keto Stuffed Peppers

Description

These Keto Stuffed Peppers are a delicious, low-carb twist on a classic comfort dish. Stuffed with seasoned ground beef, cheese, and cauliflower rice, they’re packed with flavor and nutrients while keeping carbs low. Perfect for meal prep or a hearty dinner!

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers (any color)

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• ½ small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup riced cauliflower

• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (drained)

• 1 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers, remove seeds, and set aside.

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook until soft, about 3 minutes.

3. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.

4. Stir in garlic, cauliflower rice, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and seasonings. Cook for another 5 minutes.

5. Remove from heat and mix in ½ cup mozzarella cheese.

6. Stuff each bell pepper with the beef mixture and place in a baking dish.

7. Top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

8. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.

9. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving) (Serves 4)

• Calories: ~340

• Protein: 28g

• Fat: 22g

• Carbs: 10g

• Fiber: 4g

• Net Carbs: 6g

These Keto Stuffed Peppers are rich, cheesy, and satisfying—perfect for a low-carb meal!

8. Cheesy Ground Beef and Cauliflower Rice Bake

Description

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Cauliflower Rice Bake is a rich, satisfying keto casserole packed with protein and healthy fats. Made with seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, and cauliflower rice, it’s the perfect low-carb comfort meal for busy weeknights or meal prep.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• ½ small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 3 cups riced cauliflower

• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (drained)

• ½ cup heavy cream

• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (sugar-free)

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook until soft, about 3 minutes.

3. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.

4. Stir in garlic, cauliflower rice, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. Cook for another 5 minutes.

5. Reduce heat and mix in heavy cream and 1 cup cheddar cheese until well combined.

6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

7. Top with remaining cheddar and Parmesan cheese.

8. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.

9. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving) (Serves 6)

• Calories: ~350

• Protein: 27g

• Fat: 26g

• Carbs: 7g

• Fiber: 2g

• Net Carbs: 5g

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Cauliflower Rice Bake is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor—perfect for a keto-friendly comfort meal!

9. Keto Zucchini Lasagna

Description

This Keto Zucchini Lasagna is a delicious low-carb alternative to traditional lasagna, replacing pasta with thinly sliced zucchini. Layered with seasoned ground beef, a rich tomato sauce, and creamy cheese, it’s a comforting meal that’s keto-friendly and packed with flavor.

Ingredients

For the Zucchini “Noodles”:

• 3 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced lengthwise

• 1 tsp salt (to remove excess moisture)

For the Meat Sauce:

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• ½ small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes (no sugar added)

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Cheese Layer:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 egg

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)

• 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with paper towels.

2. Prepare the zucchini noodles: Lay zucchini slices on the baking sheet, sprinkle with salt, and let sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat dry with paper towels.

3. Cook the meat sauce: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook until soft, about 3 minutes.

4. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart. Drain excess fat if needed.

5. Stir in garlic, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and seasonings. Simmer for 10 minutes until thickened.

6. Prepare the cheese mixture: In a bowl, mix ricotta, Parmesan, and egg until well combined.

7. Assemble the lasagna: In a baking dish, layer zucchini slices, followed by meat sauce, and then the ricotta mixture. Repeat layers until ingredients are used.

8. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until golden and bubbly.

9. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving) (Serves 6)

• Calories: ~320

• Protein: 28g

• Fat: 22g

• Carbs: 8g

• Fiber: 2g

• Net Carbs: 6g

This Keto Zucchini Lasagna is cheesy, hearty, and perfect for a low-carb meal without sacrificing flavor!

10. Bacon-Wrapped Keto Meatballs

Description

These Bacon-Wrapped Keto Meatballs are juicy, flavorful, and wrapped in crispy bacon for the ultimate low-carb snack or meal. Packed with protein and healthy fats, they’re perfect for keto meal prep, appetizers, or a satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 egg

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• ½ tsp salt

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• 12 slices bacon (cut in half)

• 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking, if pan-frying)

• ¼ cup sugar-free BBQ sauce (optional, for glazing)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Prepare the meatballs: In a bowl, mix ground beef, Parmesan, egg, garlic, and seasonings until well combined.

3. Form the meatballs: Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs (about 24 meatballs).

4. Wrap with bacon: Wrap each meatball with a half slice of bacon and secure with a toothpick.

5. Bake: Arrange on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes, until bacon is crispy and meatballs are cooked through.

6. Optional step: Brush with sugar-free BBQ sauce in the last 5 minutes for extra flavor.

7. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or alongside a keto side dish.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving) (Serves 6, ~4 meatballs per serving)

• Calories: ~320

• Protein: 24g

• Fat: 25g

• Carbs: 2g

• Fiber: 0g

• Net Carbs: 2g

These Bacon-Wrapped Keto Meatballs are packed with flavor, crispy on the outside, and juicy on the inside—perfect for a satisfying keto-friendly meal!

FAQ

1. Can I use lean ground beef for keto recipes?

Yes, but higher-fat ground beef (like 80/20) is ideal for keto since it provides more healthy fats, which help keep you in ketosis. If using lean beef, add healthy fats like olive oil, butter, or cheese.

2. What are the best keto-friendly sides to serve with ground beef dishes?

Great keto sides include roasted or sautéed low-carb vegetables (zucchini, spinach, or cauliflower), cauliflower rice, keto coleslaw, or leafy green salads with high-fat dressings.

3. Can I meal prep these keto ground beef recipes?

Absolutely! Most of these recipes can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze dishes like casseroles, meatballs, and soups for longer storage.

4. How do I keep ground beef recipes from drying out?

To keep ground beef juicy, avoid overcooking, use fattier cuts (80/20 or 85/15), and add moisture-rich ingredients like broth, cheese, or heavy cream when cooking.