Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 20–25 minutes
Total Time: ~40 minutes
Quick Description
This Mexican White Trash Casserole is a rich, cheesy, and comforting low-carb casserole packed with seasoned ground beef, cauliflower, peppers, and creamy cheese sauce. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. The combination of spices, melted cheese, and creamy texture creates a flavorful Mexican-inspired dish that’s satisfying without being heavy on carbs.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil (if needed)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cauliflower florets, finely chopped (rice-sized)
- ½ cup diced bell peppers
- ½ cup diced tomatoes (no added sugar)
- ½ cup sliced black olives
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
Optional Toppings
- Jalapeños
- Green onions
- Fresh cilantro
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
Grease a casserole dish.
2. Cook the Beef
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Add Aromatics
Add chopped onion and garlic.
Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
4. Add Vegetables
Stir in:
- cauliflower
- bell peppers
- diced tomatoes
- black olives
Cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly tender.
5. Season the Mixture
Add:
- chili powder
- cumin
- smoked paprika
- salt
- black pepper
Mix well.
6. Add Creamy Ingredients
Reduce heat and stir in:
- sour cream
- cream cheese
Mix until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
7. Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the mixture into the prepared casserole dish.
Sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
8. Bake
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
9. Rest and Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Add optional toppings if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- sliced avocado
- fresh lettuce salad
- keto tortilla chips
- sour cream or salsa
Storage
Refrigerator: 3–4 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: Up to 2 months.
Reheat in oven or microwave.
