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Keto Creamy Taco Hamburger Bowl - A Comforting, Low-Carb Favorite

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound (450 g) ground beef (80/20 or 85/15)
  • 1 tablespoon avocado oil or olive oil (if your beef is very lean)
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1/2 cup beef broth (low-sodium)
  • 3 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (or full-fat Greek yogurt)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 2 cups shredded romaine or iceberg lettuce (for serving)
  • 1 medium avocado, diced
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • Pickled jalapeños (optional)
  • Salsa or hot sauce (optional, check labels for added sugar)

Method
 

  1. Brown the beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high. Add oil if using, then the ground beef. Break it up and cook until well browned, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan for flavor.
  2. Sauté aromatics: Add the chopped onion and a pinch of salt. Cook 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Bloom the spices: Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, oregano, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir for 30–45 seconds to toast the spices. Mix in the tomato paste and cook 1 minute to caramelize slightly.
  4. Make it saucy: Pour in the beef broth and scrape up any browned bits. Simmer 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
  5. Go creamy: Reduce heat to low. Add the cream cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Fold in the sour cream until the mixture is glossy and creamy.
  6. Add the cheese: Sprinkle in the shredded cheese and stir until melted. Squeeze in the lime juice. Taste and adjust salt or spices as needed.
  7. Assemble bowls: Divide shredded lettuce between bowls. Spoon the creamy taco beef on top. Add diced avocado, cilantro, and pickled jalapeños. Finish with salsa or hot sauce if you like.
  8. Serve hot: Enjoy right away while the beef is creamy and warm against the cool, crisp toppings.