Introduction
Low-Carb Pizza Casserole is the perfect solution when you crave classic pizza flavors but want to keep things lighter and more balanced. This dish delivers everything you love about pizza—savory meat, rich tomato sauce, gooey melted cheese, and bold Italian seasoning—without the carb-heavy crust. I first made this casserole on a busy weeknight when pizza cravings hit hard, and it instantly became a household favorite. What makes it especially appealing is how customizable it is. You can adjust toppings just like a pizza, making it ideal for families with different preferences. It is hearty, comforting, and satisfying while still fitting into low-carb and keto-style eating plans. Whether you are following a specific lifestyle or simply looking for a wholesome dinner option, this Low-Carb Pizza Casserole offers familiar comfort with a healthier twist that does not sacrifice flavor.
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Low-Carb Pizza Casserole – All the Pizza Flavor Without the Crust
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Low-Carb Pizza Casserole is a cheesy, hearty dish that delivers all the flavors of classic pizza without the crust—packed with seasoned meat, vegetables, marinara sauce, and plenty of melted cheese.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup sliced bell peppers
- 1 cup low-carb marinara sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup pepperoni slices
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.
- In a skillet, cook ground beef or sausage with onions until browned; drain excess fat.
- Add mushrooms and bell peppers; cook until softened.
- Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer mixture to the baking dish and top with mozzarella cheese and pepperoni slices.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Use ground turkey for a lighter version.
- Add olives, spinach, or jalapeños for more pizza toppings.
- Choose a sugar-free marinara for the lowest carb count.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Low-Carb Main Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is hearty, family-friendly, and packed with classic pizza flavor. It is low in carbs, easy to prepare, and perfect for meal prep, making it a reliable option for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ground beef or Italian sausage
This provides a savory, protein-rich base and delivers classic pizza flavor.
Pepperoni slices
Pepperoni adds smoky, slightly spicy notes that make the casserole taste like real pizza.
Pizza sauce
Pizza sauce brings tomato richness and Italian seasoning without added carbs when chosen carefully.
Mozzarella cheese
Mozzarella creates the signature melty, stretchy texture.
Parmesan cheese
Parmesan adds depth and a slightly nutty finish.
Bell peppers
Bell peppers add sweetness, color, and texture.
Mushrooms
Mushrooms bring earthiness and bulk without extra carbs.
Onion
Onion enhances savory flavor and aroma.
Italian seasoning
This blend ties all the flavors together.
Garlic
Garlic adds boldness and depth.
Olive oil
Olive oil is used for sautéing and adds richness.
Salt
Salt enhances overall flavor.
Black pepper
Black pepper adds mild heat and balance.
Directions
Begin by preheating the oven and lightly greasing a casserole dish. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
Add chopped onion, bell peppers, mushrooms, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are softened and fragrant. Stir in the pizza sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Simmer briefly to combine flavors.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, followed by Parmesan cheese. Arrange pepperoni slices across the surface.
Bake until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is fully melted and lightly golden. Allow it to rest briefly before serving to set properly.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves approximately 4 to 6 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking and baking time of 30 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat portions in the oven or microwave until warmed through. This casserole also freezes well for up to 2 months.
Variations and Customizations
Low-Carb Pizza Casserole is extremely versatile. You can swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Add olives, spinach, or zucchini for extra vegetables. For a spicier version, use hot Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes. If you prefer a creamier texture, stir a small amount of cream cheese into the sauce before baking. This dish also works well layered with ricotta cheese for a lasagna-style variation, while still keeping carbs low.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
This dish is low in carbohydrates, high in protein, and gluten-free. It contains dairy and is suitable for keto-style and low-carb eating plans. Nutritional values vary depending on toppings and ingredient brands.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Choose Low-Carb Sauce
Check labels to avoid hidden sugars.
Do Not Overbake
Bake just until bubbly to keep it juicy.
Let It Rest
Resting helps the casserole hold its shape.
FAQs
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, when using low-carb pizza sauce.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate before baking.
What cheese works best?
Mozzarella is ideal, with Parmesan for depth.
Can I add more toppings?
Yes, treat it like a pizza and customize.
Does it freeze well?
Yes, freeze tightly wrapped.
Is this good for meal prep?
Yes, it reheats very well.
Can I use marinara sauce?
Yes, choose a low-carb version.
Is this kid-friendly?
Yes, it tastes like pizza.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
What can I serve with it?
A green salad or roasted vegetables pair well.
Conclusion
Low-Carb Pizza Casserole is a comforting, flavorful dish that satisfies pizza cravings while keeping things wholesome and balanced. Easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and perfect for busy schedules, this casserole proves you can enjoy bold comfort food flavors without the extra carbs.
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