Here is your ingredient list organized and turned into a complete, easy-to-follow recipe.
Keto Creamy Taco Bake
Serves: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20-25 minutes
Main Ingredients:
- Ground beef (93/7 or 96/4 recommended) – 1 lb (454g)
- Philadelphia Neufchâtel cheese (or regular cream cheese) – 4 oz (112g), softened
- Tostitos Medium Salsa (or your preferred sugar-free salsa) – 4 oz (112g)
- Shredded cheese blend (e.g., 70g mozzarella, 30g sharp cheddar) – 3.5 oz (100g), divided
Seasoning:
- Old El Paso Taco Seasoning – 1 tbsp (or 1 packet)
- Optional for binding: 1 large egg or egg white (See note below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- If using the optional egg, lightly beat it in a small bowl and set aside.
2. Cook the Beef:
- In a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until no pink remains. If using a fattier cut, drain the excess grease.
- Add the taco seasoning and stir to combine, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Create the Creamy Base:
- Reduce the heat to low. Add the softened Neufchâtel cheese and salsa to the skillet with the beef.
- Stir continuously until the cream cheese has completely melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- If you are using the optional egg for a firmer, pie-like texture, stir it into the mixture now.
4. Add Cheese and Top:
- Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in about half of your shredded cheese blend until it’s melted into the beef mixture.
- Smooth the top with a spatula and sprinkle the remaining half of the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
5. Bake:
- Transfer the oven-safe skillet to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is fully melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden brown.
6. Broil (Optional):
- For an extra crispy, browned top, switch the oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes. Watch it closely to prevent burning!
7. Serve:
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows it to set slightly, making it easier to portion.
- Serve it on its own, over a bed of lettuce for a taco salad, with keto-friendly tortilla chips, or topped with your favorite garnishes like sour cream, avocado, jalapeños, or cilantro.
Important Note on the Egg:
- Without the egg: The final dish will be creamy, saucy, and decadent, similar to a dip or a very cheesy meat sauce (as you prefer it).
- With the egg: The final dish will be firmer and sliceable, more like a traditional casserole or a quiche. The egg acts as a binder, holding everything together.
Enjoy your delicious and incredibly easy keto meal!
