Keto Ground Beef Tomato Basil Bake is a comforting low-carb casserole made with seasoned ground beef, rich tomato sauce, fresh basil, and melted cheese. This easy keto dinner is perfect for meal prep, family meals, and classic Italian-inspired low-carb comfort food.

About This Recipe

Keto Ground Beef Tomato Basil Bake is a simple yet deeply satisfying low-carb casserole inspired by classic Italian flavors. Ground beef is simmered in a rich tomato sauce, layered with fresh basil and cheese, then baked until bubbly and golden. The result is a comforting, familiar dish that delivers all the flavors of a traditional baked pasta — without the carbs.

The recipe starts by browning ground beef with garlic and onion to build a savory base. A low-carb tomato sauce adds depth and acidity, while Italian seasoning and fresh basil bring brightness and balance. The mixture is layered into a baking dish with cheese, allowing everything to meld together as it bakes. As the casserole cooks, the sauce thickens slightly, the beef becomes incredibly tender, and the cheese forms a melted, lightly golden topping.

This dish is ideal for busy weeknights and meal prep alike. It reheats beautifully, holds its structure well, and tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. You can easily customize it by adding spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini, or by adjusting the cheese blend to your preference. Whether served on its own or paired with a simple low-carb side, this tomato basil beef bake is dependable, filling, and full of classic comfort.

If you’re building out your Ground Beef board or need a reliable keto dinner that everyone will enjoy, this recipe delivers exactly that — straightforward ingredients, bold flavor, and minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic tomato basil flavor
Cheesy and comforting
Naturally low-carb and keto
Great for meal prep
Family-friendly
Simple ingredients
Easy weeknight bake
Perfect ground beef casserole

Ingredients

For the Beef Mixture

1.5 lb ground beef
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp Italian seasoning

For the Sauce & Layers

1 1/2 cups low-carb tomato sauce
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1 cup shredded mozzarella
1/2 cup grated Parmesan

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Add onion and garlic; sauté 2–3 minutes until softened.
Add ground beef, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until browned; drain excess fat.
Stir in tomato sauce and simmer 5 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in chopped basil.
Transfer beef mixture to a greased baking dish.
Top with mozzarella and Parmesan.
Bake 20–25 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden.
Rest 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories: 445
Fat: 32g
Protein: 33g
Net Carbs: 4g

FAQ

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
A: Yes — the flavor will be lighter but still works well.
Q: Is fresh basil required?
A: Strongly recommended, but dried basil can be used in a pinch.
Q: Can I add vegetables?
A: Yes — spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini are great additions.
Q: Is this good for meal prep?
A: Yes. It reheats very well and keeps its texture.
Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Yes — cool completely and freeze in portions.

Variations & Substitutions

Add spinach for extra greens
Use provolone instead of mozzarella
Add chili flakes for heat
Mix in ricotta for a creamier bake
Swap basil for oregano

Serving Suggestions

Serve with cauliflower rice
Pair with roasted broccoli
Add a crisp green salad
Enjoy as a stand-alone meal

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