In This Recipe
If you love the cozy flavors of beef and broccoli but want something that’s oven-baked, cheesy, and totally keto, this keto beef and broccoli casserole is your new go-to. It’s rich, satisfying, and perfect for meal prep, making it a lifesaver for busy weeks. Each serving delivers only about 7g net carbs but packs in plenty of protein to keep you full. Plus, it’s flexible enough to double as a low carb beef casserole or even a pasta-style bake with keto swaps. Whether you’re making it for Sunday prep or a weeknight dinner, this dish is simple, hearty, and totally satisfying.
Why This Casserole is a Keto Win
Comfort Food Meets Low-Carb Lifestyle
There’s something special about the blend of savory beef, tender broccoli, and melted cheese — it’s pure comfort food. But unlike traditional casseroles loaded with pasta or rice, this keto beef and broccoli casserole skips the heavy carbs while keeping all the flavor. With just the right balance of protein, fat, and fiber, it fits perfectly into a keto plan without leaving you feeling deprived. Even non-keto family members tend to go back for seconds, making it a dinner win for everyone at the table.
Perfect for Meal Prep and Busy Schedules
One of the best things about this dish is how well it works for meal prep. You can assemble it ahead, store it in the fridge, and pop it into the oven whenever you need dinner in a hurry. It also reheats beautifully, so you can portion it into containers for quick lunches during the week. If you’re craving variety, try swapping the cheddar for mozzarella or adding mushrooms for a flavor twist — the base recipe is forgiving and adaptable. For more ideas like this, check out these easy meal prep ideas to spice up your routine.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Core Ingredients
To make this keto beef and broccoli casserole, you’ll need a short, simple list of staples you might already have in your fridge.
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef – 80/20 is best for flavor and juiciness.
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets – steam or blanch for tender-crisp texture.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided) – gives that classic cheesy pull.
- 4 oz cream cheese – softened for easier blending.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream – adds richness to the sauce.
- 1/4 cup beef broth (unsalted) – boosts savory depth.
If you like exploring more beef dinner options, you might also enjoy my Delicious Keto Ground Beef Recipes or Keto Ground Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry.
Seasonings
Seasoning is key to making a low carb beef casserole taste just as indulgent as the traditional version.
- 1 tsp garlic powder – for a warm, savory base.
- 1/2 tsp onion powder – rounds out the flavor.
- Salt & pepper – adjust to taste.
- Optional: 1/2 tsp smoked paprika – adds a subtle smoky kick.
Pro tip: If you prefer bolder flavors, try mixing in a pinch of chili flakes or using pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prep the Broccoli
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add broccoli florets and blanch for about 2 minutes until they turn bright green and slightly tender. Drain well and set aside. This step keeps the broccoli vibrant and prevents it from overcooking in the oven.
Step 2 – Brown the Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Drain any excess fat to keep your keto beef and broccoli casserole from becoming greasy.
Step 3 – Make the Creamy Sauce
Lower the heat to medium-low. Stir in the cream cheese until it melts into the beef. Add heavy cream and beef broth, whisking until the sauce is smooth and well combined. The sauce should coat the beef without being watery.
Step 4 – Combine Ingredients
Fold the blanched broccoli into the beef mixture. Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and stir until everything is evenly coated. This ensures every bite delivers that rich, cheesy flavor you want in a keto broccoli bake.
Step 5 – Bake
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese evenly on top. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–18 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is golden. For extra crunch, you can top it with crushed pork rinds before baking.
Keto Pasta with Beef and Broccoli (Optional Swap)
If you love the idea of pasta with beef and broccoli but want to stay firmly in keto territory, there are plenty of low-carb swaps that work beautifully in this casserole. These options soak up the creamy sauce without adding unnecessary carbs, giving you that pasta-like comfort food experience.
- Shirataki noodles – Rinse well, boil for 2 minutes, and pat dry before mixing into the casserole base. They absorb flavor while keeping carbs near zero.
- Palmini pasta – Drain and pat dry to prevent extra liquid from watering down your bake.
- Zucchini noodles – Sauté lightly to remove moisture before folding them into the mixture.
These keto-friendly pasta swaps transform the dish into a hearty low carb beef casserole with the familiar texture of pasta, making it a satisfying alternative to traditional baked pasta dishes.
Serving Suggestions
This keto beef and broccoli casserole pairs well with a crisp side salad for a balanced plate. A simple mix of leafy greens, cucumber, and olive oil vinaigrette keeps the carbs low while adding freshness. If you want a crunchier topping, sprinkle crushed pork rinds or almond flour before baking. For a richer flavor, add a dusting of parmesan cheese during the last few minutes in the oven. This dish also works beautifully as part of a buffet-style dinner alongside other keto broccoli bake favorites or roasted low-carb vegetables.
Meal Prep & Storage
One of the reasons this casserole is such a keto win is how well it stores and reheats. You can make it ahead for the week or freeze portions for later without losing flavor or texture.
- Fridge: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Portion into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes, or microwave in 1-minute bursts until heated through.
To save time, you can also prep the beef mixture and broccoli ahead, refrigerate them separately, and assemble the casserole just before baking.
Variations & Add-Ins
One of the best things about this keto beef and broccoli casserole is how easy it is to customize. With a few swaps or additions, you can completely change the flavor profile while keeping it low carb.
- Cheese swaps – Replace cheddar with mozzarella for a milder flavor or pepper jack for a little heat.
- Extra veggies – Add sliced mushrooms, spinach, or cauliflower for more texture and nutrients.
- Spicy twist – Mix in diced jalapeños or a pinch of chili flakes for a gentle kick.
- Herb lovers – Stir in fresh parsley or thyme before baking for a fragrant finish.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Here’s the approximate breakdown for this keto beef and broccoli casserole (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: ~380
- Protein: ~25g
- Fat: ~29g
- Net Carbs: ~7g
These macros make it a well-rounded low carb beef casserole that fits easily into daily keto goals while providing enough protein to keep you satisfied.
PrintKeto Beef and Broccoli Casserole for Easy Meal Prep
Cheesy keto beef and broccoli casserole that’s perfect for meal prep, with only 7g net carbs per serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (80/20)
4 cups fresh broccoli florets (blanched)
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
4 oz cream cheese (softened)
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup beef broth (unsalted)
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Instructions
1. Blanch broccoli for 2 minutes, drain, and set aside.
2. Brown ground beef in skillet, season, and drain fat.
3. Lower heat, stir in cream cheese until melted.
4. Add heavy cream and beef broth, whisk until smooth.
5. Fold in broccoli and 1 cup cheddar cheese.
6. Transfer to casserole dish, top with remaining cheese.
7. Bake at 375°F for 15–18 minutes until bubbly.
Notes
Swap cheddar with mozzarella or pepper jack.
Add mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies.
Top with crushed pork rinds before baking for crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this without dairy?
Yes. Replace cream cheese and cheddar with dairy-free cheese alternatives, and swap heavy cream for coconut cream. The result will still be creamy and flavorful.
Q: Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely. Thaw it completely and pat dry before adding to avoid excess water in the casserole.
Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes. Cook on low for 3–4 hours, then sprinkle cheese on top before serving. This method works well if you want to combine flavors over a longer cook time.
Conclusion
This keto beef and broccoli casserole is proof that comfort food and a low-carb lifestyle can go hand in hand. It’s hearty, cheesy, and simple enough for busy weeknights yet versatile enough for meal prep. Whether you make the classic version or try the optional pasta swaps for that “pasta with beef and broccoli” vibe, it’s a recipe worth keeping on repeat. Serve it fresh out of the oven or portion it out for the week — either way, you’ll have a flavorful, filling keto dinner ready when you need it.