Keto Bolognese Casserole

This keto bolognese casserole is a layered bake. Sliced zucchini and diced bell pepper go on the bottom of a 9×13 inch dish, a meat sauce of ground beef and Italian sausage goes over them, and mozzarella and Parmesan melt on top. There is no pasta, and a serving has about 6 grams of carbohydrates.

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It serves 6. Prep is 15 minutes and baking takes 25 to 30 minutes, for a total of 55 minutes.

What Goes in the Casserole

Amounts are in the recipe card at the bottom. Here is the role of each part.

• Ground beef and Italian sausage (1 pound of each): the meat base. The sausage adds a savory kick, and for the best flavor it helps to use good-quality meat.
• Onion, garlic and olive oil: the onion and garlic are sauteed in the oil first, and they give the sauce sweetness and depth.
• Crushed tomatoes (28 ounces) and tomato paste (6 ounces): the tomatoes make the sauce and add moisture and acidity, and the paste thickens it and strengthens the tomato flavor.
• Dried oregano and basil (1 tablespoon each), salt and pepper: the Italian herbs that make it taste like bolognese.
• Zucchini and bell pepper (one medium of each): they take the place of pasta and add texture. The pepper brings sweetness and color.
• Mozzarella (1 cup) and Parmesan (1/2 cup): mozzarella melts into a gooey topping, and Parmesan adds a nutty flavor and a crisp edge when baked.

Cooking Notes

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Chop the onion, mince the garlic and slice the vegetables before you start, so the stove work moves quickly.

Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat and saute the onion and garlic for 3 to 4 minutes, until the onion turns translucent. Add the beef and sausage and break them apart with a spoon. They need 7 to 10 minutes to brown, and you should drain excess fat if there is a lot.

Stir in the tomatoes, tomato paste, herbs, salt and pepper, then simmer for 10 minutes. Do not skip the simmer. It lets the flavors blend and makes a richer sauce.

Layer the zucchini and pepper in a greased dish, spread the meat sauce over them, and add the cheeses. Spread the vegetables evenly so they cook through and take on the sauce. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. If it browns too fast, cover it with foil. Let it stand for 5 minutes before cutting. A garnish of fresh basil or parsley adds color and flavor.

Make-Ahead and Portions

You can assemble the casserole ahead and keep it in the refrigerator, then bake it straight from the fridge. Cutting it into portions before serving makes it easy to plan servings and meal prep for the week.

Ways to Change It

• More vegetables: add chopped mushrooms, spinach or diced eggplant to the meat sauce without adding many carbs.
• More heat: red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños go into the sauce.
• Other cheeses: mozzarella and provolone together, or cheddar, gouda or pepper jack.
• Lighter meat: ground turkey or chicken replaces the beef and sausage. A plant-based meat gives a vegetarian version.
• Noodles: layer in spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles if you miss pasta.
• Sauce: a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar adds depth, and a little cream makes it richer.
• Herbs: thyme or rosemary give a different aroma.
• Dairy-free: use a dairy-free cheese or leave the cheeses out.

What to Serve With It

Garlic butter green beans, cauliflower mash, roasted Brussels sprouts or cheesy steamed broccoli all fit the low-carb plan. Sauteed zucchini noodles or a side salad with an olive oil and vinegar dressing give a fresher contrast to the rich bake.

For drinks, sparkling water with lemon or lime, herbal tea, unsweetened iced tea or a glass of dry red wine all work.

Nutrition per Serving

One serving has approximately 380 calories, 28 grams of fat (10 grams saturated), 6 grams of carbohydrates, 2 grams of fiber, 4 grams of sugar, 28 grams of protein and 800 milligrams of sodium.

FAQ

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare it in advance, keep it in the refrigerator and bake it straight from the fridge.

What can be used in place of the ground beef?

Ground turkey or chicken makes a lighter casserole. For a vegetarian version, use plant-based meat.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes. Chopped mushrooms, spinach or diced eggplant can go into the meat sauce.

Can it be made dairy-free?

Yes. Use a dairy-free cheese or omit the cheeses.

How long do leftovers keep?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days, and reheat in the oven or microwave.

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Written and edited by The Foodie Yummy Kitchen Team

The Foodie Yummy Kitchen Team writes and edits the recipes on Foodie Yummy: classic American potluck salads, holiday sides and easy comfort food, with a few low-carb options. Every recipe lists exact quantities, numbered steps and a printable recipe card, plus notes on swaps, storage and make-ahead timing. Spot a problem with a recipe? Tell us through the contact page and we will correct it. About us