How to Make the Best Keto Ground Chicken Casserole in 30 Min

Finding a satisfying, protein-packed meal that fits your keto lifestyle doesn’t have to be complicated. This Keto Ground Chicken Casserole recipe delivers incredible flavor while keeping your carb count low. Perfect for busy weeknights, this hearty dish combines the versatility of ground chicken with creamy textures and bold flavors that will please even non-keto family members. If you’ve already tried our popular Keto Chicken Bake and loved it, this ground chicken variation offers a delicious alternative with similar macros but a completely different taste experience.

Ingredients & Kitchen Tools for Keto Ground Chicken Casserole

Main Ingredients:
– 2 pounds ground chicken
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil

Kitchen Tools:
– 9×13 inch casserole dish
– Large skillet
– Mixing bowls
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Wooden spoon
– Cheese grater (if using block cheese)

Possible Substitutions:
– Ground turkey can replace ground chicken
– Swiss or provolone cheese can substitute for mozzarella
– Greek yogurt can replace some of the cream cheese for a tangier flavor
– Kale works well in place of spinach

Prep & Cooking Time for a Perfect Keto Ground Chicken Casserole Dish

– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cooking Time: 35 minutes
– Total Time: 50 minutes
– Servings: 6

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Keto Ground Chicken Casserole Easily

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease your casserole dish.

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.

3. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Add ground chicken to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 6-7 minutes until no longer pink.

5. Stir in diced bell pepper and cook for 2 minutes until slightly softened.

6. Add cream cheese to the skillet and stir until melted and well combined with the Keto Ground Chicken Casserole mixture.

7. Pour in heavy cream and add Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

8. Fold in chopped spinach and cook until just wilted, about 1 minute.

9. Transfer the mixture to your prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly.

10. Top with shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, creating a golden topping similar to our Keto Chicken Bake.

11. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

12. Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutritional Benefits of This Keto Ground Chicken Casserole Recipe

– High protein: Approximately 30g per serving from ground chicken
– Healthy fats: Provides essential fatty acids from cheese and cream
– Low carb: Only 6g net carbs per serving
– Rich in calcium from dairy ingredients
– Good source of potassium from spinach
– Contains vitamins A, C, and K from bell peppers and spinach

Variations, Substitutions & Cooking Tips for Keto Ground Chicken Casserole Lovers

– Mexican version: Add taco seasoning, diced jalapeños, and use pepper jack cheese
– Italian style: Mix in sun-dried tomatoes, basil, and extra Italian seasoning
– Buffalo twist: Add buffalo sauce to the cream mixture and top with blue cheese
– Vegetable boost: Mix in riced cauliflower for extra volume without added carbs
– Crunch factor: Sprinkle crushed pork rinds on top before baking

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Preparing Keto Ground Chicken Casserole

1. Overcooking the ground chicken (makes it dry and tough)
2. Using pre-shredded cheese (contains anti-caking agents with added carbs)
3. Not draining excess liquid from the meat mixture (results in a watery casserole)
4. Rushing the cooling time (the casserole needs time to set)
5. Forgetting to season adequately (ground chicken needs proper seasoning)

Storage & Reheating Tips to Keep Your Keto Ground Chicken Casserole Fresh

– Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
– Freezing: Portion into individual servings and freeze for up to 2 months
– Reheating: Warm in microwave at 70% power or in oven at 325°F until heated through
– Meal prep: Prepare on Sunday for easy weekday meals

Conclusion: Final Thoughts on Making Keto Ground Chicken Casserole at Home

This Keto Ground Chicken Casserole brings together protein, healthy fats, and minimal carbs in a comforting, satisfying dish that’s perfect for your low-carb lifestyle. The versatility of this recipe means you can adapt it to whatever ingredients you have on hand, making it an ideal addition to your keto recipe collection. Whether you’re a seasoned keto cook or just starting out, this casserole, along with our Keto Chicken Bake, will become a staple in your meal rotation for its simplicity, flavor, and perfect macros.

FAQs About Cooking Keto Ground Chicken Casserole

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Keep it refrigerated and add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.

Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What can I serve with this casserole to keep it keto-friendly?
A simple side salad with olive oil dressing or steamed non-starchy vegetables like broccoli or asparagus make excellent accompaniments.

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of ground chicken?
Yes, though it will change the texture. Shred about 3 cups of rotisserie chicken and reduce the initial cooking time since it’s already cooked.

How can I make this casserole more budget-friendly?
Watch for sales on ground chicken, buy block cheese instead of pre-shredded, and incorporate seasonal vegetables that are priced lower.