Print

Low Carb Pizza Casserole

Low Carb Pizza Casserole

This Low Carb Pizza Casserole is a flavorful, nutritious, and keto-friendly dish that satisfies pizza cravings without the heavy carbs. Featuring layers of seasoned ground meat, vegetables, low carb marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese bound together with eggs, it’s perfect for quick weeknight meals, adaptable for various diets, and a family favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1 lb ground meat (beef, turkey, or chicken)
  • Optional: sausage, bacon, or pancetta for meat lover’s style

Sauce and Seasonings

  • 1 cup low carb marinara sauce
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Red pepper flakes or jalapeños (optional, for spicy twist)

Cheese

  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Optional: parmesan, provolone, or feta for cheese overload

Vegetables & Toppings

  • 1 cup chopped bell peppers
  • 1 cup chopped mushrooms
  • 1 cup fresh spinach
  • ½ cup sliced olives
  • ½ cup sliced pepperoni
  • Optional for vegetarian: zucchini, eggplant, or artichokes
  • Optional: riced cauliflower for a crust base

Binding

  • 3 large eggs

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meat and Veggies: Brown the ground meat in a non-stick skillet over medium heat, breaking it apart as it cooks until fully cooked. Add chopped bell peppers and mushrooms, and sauté together until tender and fragrant.
  2. Mix Sauce and Seasonings: Stir in the low carb marinara sauce and Italian seasoning into the meat and vegetable mixture. Let it simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors thoroughly.
  3. Assemble the Casserole Layers: Grease a baking dish and spread half of the meat and sauce mixture evenly. Sprinkle a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese, then add sliced olives, pepperoni, and fresh spinach. Top with the remaining meat mixture and a final layer of cheese.
  4. Add the Binding Egg Mixture: Beat the eggs in a bowl and pour evenly over the assembled casserole to help everything bind and set during baking.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden, and the eggs have set firmly.

Notes

  • Use a non-stick pan to prevent sticking and simplify cleanup.
  • Drain excess fat, especially when using fattier meats, to keep the dish light.
  • Enhance flavor with fresh herbs like basil or oregano.
  • Do not overbake to maintain moist and melty texture.
  • Combine different cheeses for added richness and complexity.

Nutrition

Keywords: low carb, pizza casserole, keto, gluten free, paleo, easy dinner, weeknight meal