Slow Cooker Low-Carb Mexican Lasagna Casserole
Try this Slow Cooker Low-Carb Mexican Lasagna Casserole recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Slow Cooker Low-Carb Mexican Lasagna Casserole recipe, or contribute your own.
- 2 eggs
- 2-3 tsp. olive oil
- 2 lbs. lean ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped small
- 1 t kalyn's taco seasoning (or use your favorite purch
- 1 cup salsa (i used pace picante sauce medium)
- 2 cans (10 oz. can) ro-tel tomatoes and green chiles (use
- about 6 low-carb tortillas cut in half (i used mission carb-balance whole wheat low-carb tortillas with 4 carbs per tortilla)
- 2 cups cottage cheese (or use ricotta cheese if you prefe
- 1 can (4 oz.) diced green chiles drained
- 3 cups grated cheddar cheese divided, or more if you like a lot of cheese. (i used mexican blend cheese from costco for this.)
- Carbohydrate 1.68043 g
- Cholesterol 101.5270081 mg
- Fat 22.4108874 g
- Fiber 0 g
- Protein 28.8150448 g
- Saturated Fat 12.16804767492 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (155g)
- Sodium 331.51519284 mg
- Sugar 1.68043 g
- Trans Fat 1.8196100013 g
- Calories 329 calories
Step-by-step
- Heat the oil in a large heavy frying pan, add the ground beef, breaking it apart with your fingers, and cook over medium-high heat until the beef is browned and cooked through. Break beef apart with a turner or old fashioned potato masher as it cooks so it's in small pieces.
- When the beef is done, push it over to the side, add a little more oil if needed, and cook the diced onion for a few minutes; then mix the onion with the beef.
- Add the taco seasoning, salsa, and Ro-Tel tomatoes and simmer over low heat until most of the liquid has evaporated and when you draw a turner across the bottom of the pan you don't see any liquid.
- While beef mixture cooks, mix together the cottage cheese, drained green chiles, eggs, and 1 cup of the cheese.
- Cut the tortillas in half with kitchen shears and spray the slow cooker insert with non-stick spray.
- In the crockery casserole dish insert, make a layer of tortillas, using the cut side of the tortillas to go along the straight sides. Use the least amount of tortillas you can to cover the bottom.
- Make a layer of half the spicy meat mixture, half the cottage cheese mixture, and one cup of the grated cheese (or more).
- Then make a second layer each of the tortillas, meat mixture, cottage cheese mixture, and grated cheese.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on HIGH for about 2 1/2 hours or until the casserole is bubbling and the cheese is nicely melted. (I carefully lift the lid on the Crock-Pot Casserole Crock Slow Cooker at least once during the cooking time and pour off any accumulated liquid.)
- If you're using the Casserole Crock, you can brown the finished dish in a 400F/200C oven for about 15 minutes if desired, but that step is completely optional. (Crock-Pot doesn't recommend putting the casserole crock under the broiler.)
- If you want to try this in the oven, a reader reported she baked it for 45 minutes and it turned out perfectly and was a hit with her husband. I'd use 375F/190C if you're baking it in a casserole dish!
- This will keep in the fridge for quite a few days and can be reheated in the microwave. I'm guessing it also freezes well, although I haven't had any leftovers to freeze yet!
My Delicious Low-Carb Mexican Lasagna Adventure
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can be a real challenge. Weeknights are often a whirlwind of school pick-ups, homework battles, and the general chaos that comes with juggling family life and a demanding career. That's why I'm always on the lookout for recipes that are both satisfying and easy to prepare. This Slow Cooker Low-Carb Mexican Lasagna Casserole is a true lifesaver! It’s a hearty, flavorful meal that’s surprisingly simple to make, even on my busiest days. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while I focus on other things.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. I’ve experimented with different types of cheese, and the results have always been fantastic. Sometimes I use a sharp cheddar, other times a Mexican blend, and occasionally even a blend of both! The spiciness level is also adjustable; I prefer a medium heat, but those who prefer milder flavors can easily reduce the amount of salsa or Ro-Tel. The best part? This dish is remarkably low-carb, making it a perfect fit for my health-conscious lifestyle. I've found that using low-carb tortillas keeps the carb count manageable, but you can even experiment with zucchini slices for a truly unique twist. Plus, there's always something satisfying about a casserole that comes together so effortlessly. The layers of cheesy goodness, spicy meat, and tender tortillas make for a texturally delightful experience that’s both visually appealing and incredibly satisfying.
Beyond the convenience and flavor, this recipe has become a family favorite. My kids devour it, and my husband raves about how much he enjoys it. It's a fantastic way to bring a bit of excitement to the dinner table without spending hours in the kitchen. The leftovers are also incredibly convenient for quick lunches, something that is always appreciated in my busy household. The ease of reheating in the microwave, or even grabbing a portion straight from the fridge, makes this a true go-to meal for those days when I’m short on time but still want a delicious and healthy meal. It's become a staple in my meal planning, appearing regularly on our dinner rotation, and I encourage you all to try it. You might just find it becomes a cherished part of your family's repertoire too!
This recipe isn't just for busy weeknights. It also shines at gatherings. I often make a double batch for potlucks or when we have friends over. It’s always a huge hit, and it's a great way to share a delicious and satisfying meal with loved ones. It travels well, making it a perfect dish to take to parties and family events. I've even adapted the recipe for a smaller slow cooker when I'm making it for just my family, making it incredibly versatile. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this Slow Cooker Low-Carb Mexican Lasagna Casserole is a recipe that will impress and satisfy, regardless of your skill level or time constraints. Its forgiving nature makes it a perfect choice for busy days and special occasions alike.
Ingredients Notes: The ingredient list is quite flexible. Experiment with different cheeses, salsas, and taco seasonings to find your perfect flavor combination. Feel free to adjust the spice level to your preference. I often add a pinch of cumin or chili powder to enhance the flavor profile. Similarly, the type of tortillas can be adjusted based on your dietary needs and preferences. If you are truly dedicated to a low-carb lifestyle, using very thin slices of zucchini, or even portobello mushrooms, in place of tortillas can result in a delicious and surprisingly low-carb variation. The cottage cheese works beautifully, but ricotta cheese is another great substitute.
Serving Suggestions: A side salad with a simple vinaigrette dressing perfectly complements the richness of this casserole. You could also add a side of guacamole or sour cream for a truly authentic Mexican flair. The recipe is hearty enough to be enjoyed on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with any side dishes you choose to add. A simple green salad is always a refreshing addition, balancing the richness of the casserole beautifully.
