Need recipes? Download our Free 21 Keto Recipe Book. Click Here
During a family holiday gathering, we decided to do a recipe swap to make our traditional dishes healthier. I was excited to share my Keto Italian Beef Sandwich Cups recipe with everyone. My husband, Mark, and our two children, Emily and Ethan, were curious to try it out.
As I served the sandwich cups, everyone’s eyes lit up with delight. They couldn’t believe how delicious and flavorful they were, even without the usual bread. The tender beef, melted cheese, and savory spices made it a hit!
Here’s the recipe for our Keto Italian Beef Sandwich Cups:
- Cook 1 pound of beef in a slow cooker with 1 cup of beef broth and 1 packet of Italian seasoning for 6-8 hours.
- Shred the cooked beef and mix it with 1/2 cup of marinara sauce.
- Spoon the beef mixture into 12 muffin cups lined with lettuce leaves.
- Top each cup with a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes until the cheese melts and turns golden.
- Let them cool for a bit and enjoy!
Everyone loved the healthy twist on our traditional Italian beef sandwiches, and it became a new favorite at our family gatherings. It was a great way to make our holiday meals healthier without sacrificing taste!
Need recipes? Download our Free 21 Keto Recipe Book. Click Here
Origins of Keto Italian Beef Sandwich Cups:
The origins of Keto Italian Beef Sandwich Cups can be traced back to the traditional Italian beef sandwich, which originated in Chicago in the 1930s. This sandwich became popular among Italian immigrants and eventually spread throughout the city. The Keto Italian Beef Sandwich Cups are a low-carb and ketogenic twist on this classic sandwich, offering a healthier alternative for those following a specific dietary lifestyle. While the exact origins of this particular recipe are unclear, it showcases the adaptability and creativity of Italian cuisine.
Best Time to Enjoy Keto Italian Beef Sandwich Cups:
Keto Italian Beef Sandwich Cups can be enjoyed throughout the year, as they are not tied to any specific seasonal traditions. However, they are especially delightful during the summer months when fresh ingredients like bell peppers and basil are readily available. These cups are perfect for outdoor gatherings, picnics, or as a flavorful appetizer for summer parties. Whether you’re enjoying them as a light lunch or as part of a larger meal, Keto Italian Beef Sandwich Cups are a versatile and satisfying option.
Perfect Food Pairings with Keto Italian Beef Sandwich Cups:
To create a well-rounded meal, consider pairing Keto Italian Beef Sandwich Cups with a fresh side salad or some roasted vegetables. The tanginess of a classic Italian vinaigrette or the freshness of a lemon herb dressing can complement the flavors of the cups perfectly. For a heartier option, serve them alongside a bowl of zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. As for beverages, a crisp white wine or a refreshing sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon can be excellent choices to accompany these flavorful cups.
Tips and Tricks to Prepare Keto Italian Beef Sandwich Cups:
- Instead of using ground beef, you can try substituting it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter alternative.
- For added flavor, consider marinating the meat in Italian seasoning or garlic-infused olive oil before cooking.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños to the meat mixture.
- If you’re short on time, you can use pre-made low-carb or keto-friendly bread dough instead of making your own cups from scratch.
- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite Italian-inspired toppings, such as sliced black olives, diced tomatoes, or grated Parmesan cheese.
Let’s Get Started!
Keto Italian Beef Sandwich Cups offer a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy the flavors of an Italian beef sandwich while staying true to your low-carb or ketogenic lifestyle. With their savory meat filling, gooey cheese, and crispy cups, these cups are sure to be a hit at any gathering or as a quick and easy meal option. Embrace the joy of cooking, explore new flavors, and try this recipe today. Your taste buds and your waistline will thank you!
Ingredients
- Roast Beef Slices (5-½ ounce)
- Mozzarella Cheese (6 ounce)
- Sauerkraut (6 teaspoon)
- The Original Chicago Style Hot Giardiniera by Marconi (6 teaspoon)
Instructions
- Preheat an oven to 350 degree and prepare 6 muffin tins with pan spray. Line each muffin tin with 1-2 thin slices of roast beef, depending on how large your slices are.
- Place a ½-oz of mozzarella cheese in the bottom of each roast beef cup. You can simply rip or cut your mozzarella slices into 4 squares each for easy distribution.
- Place one teaspoon of sauerkraut and 1 heaping teaspoon of giardiniera into each cup. Try to exclude any oils or liquids from these ingredients.
- Top off each cup with the remaining mozzarella cheese – ½-ounce of cheese per top.
- Bake the cups in the oven for 15 minutes or until the edges are crisp and the cheese is melted. Enjoy!
- Download our Free Keto Recipe Book for 21 Healthy, Quick and Easy to make Recipes